Diabetes is a condition in which the blood glucose levels are unbalanced because the body is unable to effectively absorb and use dietary sugars for energy production. BBC Health notes that diabetes increases the risk of high blood pressure or hypertension, high blood cholesterol, heart disease and stroke, nerve damage, and vision complications. Eating a healthy, balanced diet is very important in managing this chronic condition and decreasing the associated health effects.
Vegetables
The National Institute of Health advises that vegetables should be increased in a diabetic diet to benefit from their nutritional value of fiber, vitamins and minerals. Vegetables are also low in carbohydrates and calories and hence help to stabilize blood glucose levels and decrease excess weight. Diabetes UK recommends four to five servings of vegetables a day, although starchy vegetables such as potatoes, peas and corn should be consumed only occasionally and in moderation. Vegetables that are good for a diabetic diet include lettuce, broccoli, spinach, peppers, carrots, celery, tomatoes and cabbage.
Beans
Beans and legumes such as lentils are considered one of the best sources of dietary fiber, as listed by the Nutrition and Dietetic Services. Beans and legumes help to slow digestion and stabilize blood sugar levels. This is important for weight loss, decreasing excess hunger and improving diabetes. To eat more beans in a regular diet add them to salads, soups, pastas and stews. Even canned beans that are rinsed to remove excess salt are healthy for diabetics.
Nuts
Diabetes UK lists nuts among its recommendations in its guide to diabetic meal planning, particularly because they contain unsaturated fats that help to decrease the risk of heart disease. These healthy fats also help to improve insulin use in the body for better control of blood glucose levels. Nuts are also rich sources of the antioxidant vitamin E, which protects the body and helps to prevent damage to the nerves and eyes. However, nuts and nut-based products, such as peanut butter, are high in calories and should only be eaten in moderation.
