Best Foods for Diabetes
The National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse states that nearly 23.6 million Americans, or almost 8 percent of the nation's population, have some form of diabetes. The disease is diagnosed when the body exhibits problems either producing or absorbing insulin, resulting in an abundance of blood glucose. Diabetics must eat a proper diet to control and manage the disease, and certain foods make this diet much more manageable.
High-protein Foods
Foods that are high in protein are excellent sources of nutrition for individuals diagnosed with diabetes, according to the National Diabetes Education Program (NDEP). Protein assists the body in building and maintaining bone structure. Because high-protein foods have little effect on the amount of blood glucose present, these foods have a satisfying and filling effect even when less food is actually ingested. Protein-rich foods include skinless chicken, fish and turkey. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) singles out salmon as a good source of protein that additionally provides important omega-3 fatty acids. The NDEP also lists eggs and low-fat cheese as quality choices for protein. Peanut butter (naturally produced without additives) and foods high in soy content are also high in protein but must be used in moderation.
High-fiber Carbohydrates
High-fiber carbohydrates are excellent sources for energy for persons diabetics. The NDEP states that the key to keeping an even blood glucose level (without glucose spikes) is to eat carbohydrates in moderation as part of balanced meals. Lentils and beans, including kidney, black-eyed, split, black and white beans, provide a rich source of fiber. Bright, fresh vegetables and fruit are diabetic-friendly choices and provide a convenient source of carbohydrates. Yams, potatoes, corn, squashes and pasta, in limited amounts, provide interest and taste texture to the diet while meeting the necessary daily fiber content. The ADA, in urging diabetics to look for foods made with barley and oatmeal, states that these foods assist in providing the daily necessary requirements of chromium, magnesium and folate.
Foods with Limited Fats
While fats are a necessary part of the daily diet, some fatty foods are more suitable for the diabetic diet. Avocados, nuts and olives are excellence sources of daily fat when eaten in measured, small amounts, according to the NDEP. Mixing soy with mayonnaise provides a way to extend one's amount of salad dressing while not increasing the amount of fat ingested. Tofu combined with traditional cheese sauces is another way to include additional protein while at the same time limiting the amount of fat in the diet.
Diabetes
The ADA website features a separate list of "superfoods" for diabetics. Many of the items listed above make the list, but some of the foods isolated by the ADA are perfect for easy food preparation and snacking. The ADA lists oranges, blueberries, strawberries, walnuts and low-fat yogurt as superfoods. These are also easily prepared and suitable for quick snacks.






Member Comments
by panchal on November 3, 2009 at 12:12 AM
nice artical(((((((((((((((
tank you very much sir .
by noirling on November 3, 2009 at 1:35 PM
Please make note that yogurt products often contain a large amount of sugar. Even Plain flavored yogurt can be dangerous, unless you find those specific products that are low or sugar-free.
by hassankhosseini on November 3, 2009 at 1:43 PM
good article, but I would have liked to see sample day meals and also how often to eat these "super foods" to keep blood sugars level.
by atoessandoh on November 3, 2009 at 4:13 PM
High protein foods?!!? Somebody obviously didn't read the China Study. People, please read this book before you make a decision...
by alyssarc on November 3, 2009 at 11:19 PM
Thank you- this is good overall, however I question recommending potatoes and oranges in particular as these are very high in sugar, high GI and have little fiber content (unless you count the skins). My dad is diabetic and these are two big 'no' foods.
by VaHealthyFamily on November 16, 2009 at 6:24 AM
What about foods that use organic agave nectar? Agave nectar has a low glycemic index and is a natural sweetener. We use organic agave nectar in our dressings/marinades and specialty ketchups. Our friends who are diabetics(as well as those who are not)love and appreciate them. Check out our foods at www.montebellokitchens.com. Use them as dressings or to cook with so that you can enjoy foods that you would normally avoid. Four different dressings/marinades and three ketchups (regular, curry and chipotle). Enjoy!