Diabetes is a disease in which the pancreas begins to produce less, or no insulin. It is treated with diet and exercise modification, oral medications and insulin therapy. Many diabetic patients find it difficult to change their daily diet and wonder which foods are appropriate. But many foods are considered healthy options for those struggling with diabetes. Patients should consult their physicians for an individualized diet plan.
Dark Green Leafy Vegetables
Dark green leafy vegetables are a good food choice for a diabetic. Sources include spinach, kale, collard greens, romaine lettuce, escarole and Swiss chard. According to the American Diabetes Association, these powerhouse foods are so low in calories and carbohydrates, you can't eat too much. They are low in calories but high in vitamins and minerals. The best way too cook these vegetable is to steam or sauté them. Boiling vegetables in water causes the vitamins to leech out into the water thus removing the essential nutrients from the vegetables. The use of butter and oils that are high in saturated fat should be avoided in the preparation of these vegetables. Patients should go easier on starchy vegetables --- including potatoes, corn, and peas --- which are higher in calories and sugar than other vegetables, reports Readers Digest.
Whole Grains
Diabetics should strive to eat whole grains instead of products made from processed white flour. Patients should include whole wheat breads, pasta's, barley, oats, millet, rye and quinoa into their diet plan. These foods have magnesium, chromium, omega-3 fatty acids and folate, reports the American Diabetes Association. Eating whole grains provides the body with additional fiber and does not cause the rapid spike in blood sugar associated with refined white flour.
Fat-Free Milk and Dairy
Fat-free milk and dairy products provide the body with calcium and vitamin D. Calcium and vitamin D are essential for strong bones, teeth and muscle function. Calcium-rich foods are important for a diabetic patients to ensure their optimal cardiovascular health. Additional food sources include yogurt, kefir and cheese. According to Readers Digest, several studies have shown that people who eat plenty of calcium-rich foods have an easier time losing weight --- and are less likely to become insulin resistant. Insulin resistance is a component of diabetes and should be prevented.
