20 Foods That Combat Diabetes

Whether you have Type 2 Diabetes and are trying to get rid of it, Type 1 and are trying to control it, or are simply at risk of developing Type 2. You may need to know which foods will help you do this. So let’s take a look at these foods that combat Diabetes

1. Broccoli

If there is one vegetable made for diabetes, it’s probably broccoli. It contains a special compound that naturally fights off diabetes and controls blood sugar levels. It even protects against heart disease.

Plus: One serving of broccoli contains a day’s worth of vitamin C. The next food is ever healthier than broccoli! Click next!

2. Kale

So, broccoli may be the diabetic vegetable, but kale is seriously the healthiest vegetable in the world. Not to mention extremely low-carb. The veggie reduces the risk of Type-2 diabetes and levels the sugars of those with Type-1.

Fun fact: Kale is packed with antioxidants and other nutritious components! Can you say ‘mmm…’? 

3. Nuts

In general, nuts are a really good choice! Any kind of nut contains a good amount of healthy fats. These fats are known to improve blood sugar control. Just remember to watch your portion control!

Fun fact: Almonds are the healthiest nut in the world! 

4. Seeds

Like nuts, seeds are rich in healthy fats like Omega-3s. They are low-carb and contain a good source of iron. Sunflower seeds are a good choice, but pumpkin seeds are even better. Also, like nuts, they are slow acting carbs. For this reason they will keep your blood sugar leveled and prevent spikes.

5. Fish

Fish is one of the healthiest proteins available, and as most diabetics know, protein is crucial for a healthy lifestyle. Like nuts and seeds, fish is rich in Omega-3s (the healthy fats) and has been known to lower your risk of health problems.

Tip: Eat grilled fish rather than fried.

6. Berries

What’s the healthiest fruit in the world? That’s right…berries! Any kind of berry! For Type-2 Diabetes, berries can boost insulin production and for Type-1 it can level your blood sugar levels. They are also rich in antioxidants and fiber.

Fun fact: Blueberries are one of nature’s super foods!

7. Beans

Fiber! Fiber! Fiber! As a diabetic, fiber is an important part of your diet and beans are one of the best sources! From garbanzo beans to pinto beans to edamame, a portion of beans on a weekly basis can help level your blood glucose levels. Just watch the portion size as they aren’t necessarily low carb.

Plus: Beans are also high in protein! Click next for an extra healthy veggie!

8. Avocados

Avocados have the ability to level your blood sugar by keeping it from spiking after meals! Who doesn’t need that? If that isn’t enough, however, they also fight off heart disease for a cardiac health.

Fun fact: Women who eat avocados are 25% less likely to develop Type-2 Diabetes. The next food is highly sought after.

9. Greek Yogurt

You might not think that a dairy product like yogurt is good for diabetes. But Greek yogurt is a secret super food. It has been suggested that yogurt reduces the risk of Type-2 Diabetes. Plus, plain Greek yogurt is low in carbs too!

Fun fact: Greek yogurt is great for your digestive system.

10. Tea

Tea is a little know power-food (or beverage) chock full of antioxidants. Most doctors suggest drinking tea on a daily basis, green or black, as long as it is strictly tea with no added sugars.

11. Flaxseed

Three of the best components to fight off diabetes are packed into flaxseeds: healthy fats, fiber, and protein. Flax is one of the most underrated foods in the world! It may not be tasty on it’s on, but adding it to your oatmeal, baked good etc. can do wonders for your body!

12. Apples

Everyone likes apples! That’s one of the best things about this warrior. Lower the risks of heart disease, high cholesterol, and keep your blood glucose level. Win, win, win!

Fun fact: There are over 7,500 varieties of apples grown in the world!

13. Garlic

Yes, garlic! That doesn’t mean Alfredo with extra garlic bread is a good meal for diabetes though! Studies have suggested that garlic can lower cholesterol, blood pressure, and your chances of developing cancer.

14. Spinach

Spinach is healthy, duh! But for diabetics it’s even more beneficial. Leafy greens are one of the number one most recommended foods for diabetics, and spinach is so much better than iceberg lettuce.

15. Dark Chocolate

Wait, you get to eat chocolate as a diabetic? Sure do! As long as it’s extra dark as the darker the chocolate, the less sugar. Not only is it rich in antioxidants, but it has been proven to reduce insulin resistance. Not only that, but it can naturally reduce cravings and calorie intake.

16. Asparagus

Asparagus is another great veggie. It alone can reduce the risk of many diseases, including Type-2 Diabetes. It has been suggested that it can even increase insulin production.

17. Cinnamon

One of the best things about cinnamon is that it’s a good substitute for sugar when seasoning sweets. It can even curb your craving. Studies suggest it can literally lower blood sugar levels!

Tip: Add cinnamon to tea for a dynamic diabetes fighting duo!

18. Oats

Oatmeal may not be the slowest carb, but it actually helps your body slow down the conversion of carbs into sugar. Not to mention it is loaded with fiber!

19. Olive Oil

That’s right, some oil is good for you. Remember all those healthy fats we talked about? Well olive oil is one of the number one sources for those. In the Mediterranean, olive oil is a staple that contributes to longevity and a healthy lifestyle.

20. Sweet Potatoes

We all know that white potatoes are no good for you. But thankfully, we are given a potato that holds health benefits. Reduce insulin resistance, lower cholesterol, and prevent blood sugar spikes. All the while, eating a potato!

Tip: Bake the sweet potato for optimum results!