Having type 2 diabetes should not mean having to avoid delicious food. Vegetables should be a central part of the diet for people with type 2 diabetes and can be delicious and filling.
No food item is strictly forbidden for people with type 2 diabetes. Healthful eating for people with diabetes is all about controlling portion size and preparing a careful balance of nutrients.
In this article, we look at the best vegetables for people with type 2 diabetes. We also explain why vegetables are so important for people who are monitoring blood sugar, and we offer a range of tasty meal ideas.
Best Foods For Diabetic Patients
1. Spinach
Like all leafy green vegetables, spinach is nutrient-dense and very low in calories. It's also rich in iron, which is key to healthy blood flow. You can add it to soups or stews, or throw a handful into your eggs in the morning.
2. Tomatoes
We suggests stuffing extra tomatoes into a whole-grain sandwich. In addition to adding sweetness, tomatoes are high in lycopene, a compound that has been linked to lower risk of heart disease and certain cancers.
3. Green beans
Green bean casserole may not be the most nutritious dish around, but green beans themselves are packed with health benefits. They contain vitamin C and vitamin A, and are high in fiber. We recommends adding chopped green beans to pasta sauce for an extra veggie hit. Just avoid canned green beans, which can be loaded with sodium.
4. Broccoli
In addition to helping with satiety, the fiber in vegetables acts as a prebiotic. Prebiotic fibers are fermented by our gut bacteria, helping them to thrive. In some cases, this helps with glucose and cholesterol metabolism. Broccoli is a great choice for this, as are other cruciferous vegetables.
5. Zucchini
Zucchini is particularly high in carotenoids, compounds that support heart health and might protect against certain cancers. It is also low in calories and high in fiber.
6. Carrots
The fiber in nonstarchy vegetables helps us feel full and satisfied. We recommends carrots as an especially filling, high-fiber vegetable. Carrots are also high in vitamin A, which helps with immunity and healthy eyes.
7. Cabbage
8. Cucumber
9. Lettuce
Different types of lettuce contain different nutrients, but all are high in fiber and water. In particular, a serving of red-leaf lettuce packs more than the recommended daily amount of vitamin K, which is important for blood clotting and bone health. Serving other foods over a bed of lettuce can also help slow their absorption, which contributes to blood sugar control.
NOTE:
Remember, there are no bad choices when it comes to vegetables for diabetes. In general, nonstarchy vegetables are lower in carbohydrates and calories than starchy vegetables, and their high fiber content can help steady blood sugar and slow the absorption of other carbs you may be eating with them.