Diabetes is an endocrine disorder that affects body metabolism. Adult-onset or type 2 diabetes is the most common type and may be caused by decreased levels of the metabolic hormone insulin or decreased sensitivity to insulin in the body. In many cases, diabetes may be controlled with changes to diet and lifestyle, and medications. Low-calorie, low-fat and high-fiber foods do not cause severe fluctuations in blood sugar levels. The Cleveland Clinic advises that adding healthier foods can help decrease symptoms and complications of diabetes, including high blood-glucose levels, low energy, nerve damage, vision loss and cardiovascular disease.
Fish
The MayoClinic.com recommends adding fish to your diet and decreasing the amount of other types of meat. Fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which may help to lower cholesterol, decrease inflammation in the body and reduce diabetic symptoms. It may also encourage weight loss. Tuna, salmon, halibut, mackerel, herring and cod are recommended at least twice a week to help control diabetes and lower unhealthy fats in the body.
Nuts
Peanuts, walnuts and almonds are good sources of monounsaturated fats and contain vitamins B2 and E, fiber, folic acid and magnesium. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that these nutrients help to support cell renewal and metabolic reactions, as well as reduce toxins in the body. The fiber in these nuts can also help to decrease high cholesterol and diabetes symptoms.
Fruits
Apples are a good source of antioxidants, potassium and iron. They help to control diabetes and reduce the insulin requirement. Grapefruit is a citrus fruit with antioxidant and vitamin C, which also helps to stabilize blood sugar levels. Bananas contain a high potassium content, vitamin B and iron, and are a good source of natural fiber that help reduce blood sugar, according to the Diet and Nutrition website. These foods also help to control complications of diabetes, such as constipation and autoimmune disorders.
Vegetables
Artichokes, bitter gourd, cabbage, spinach, lettuce, kale, zucchini squash, celery and parsley are good sources of fiber, vitamins C and A, iron and potassium. These nutrients help to support metabolic reactions and lower blood-glucose levels. They are low in calories, help weight loss and decrease diabetes progression, reports the American Diabetes Association.
Grains
The Cleveland Clinic advises that diabetics should add whole grains and legumes to their diet to help control diabetes. These foods include oats, barley, lentils, chickpeas, beans, whole wheat, bran wheat and brown rice.
Herbs
The American Diabetes Association notes that certain Chinese herbs, including Trichosanthes kirilowii, sibiricum, ginseng and rebaudiana, may help control diabetes by increasing the effects of insulin and decreasing blood sugar levels. Garlic and onions are kitchen herbs that are beneficial for diabetic complications.
