Vegetables are an important part of any healthy diet, and the diabetic diet is no exception. Diabetics can enjoy multiple servings of many vegetables each day and should because of the abundant vitamins, minerals and fiber they contain. However, some vegetables need to be limited because of their high carbohydrate content and the effect they can have on your blood sugar.
Dark Green Leafy Vegetables
The American Diabetes Association lists dark green leafy vegetables, such as spinach, collard greens and kale, on its top 10 diabetes superfoods list. These vegetables are loaded with vitamins and minerals, and according to the American Diabetes Association, are so low in calories and carbohydrates that you can't eat too many.
Other Nonstarchy Vegetables
Artichokes, broccoli, carrots, green beans, onions, lettuce and peppers are just a few of the many nonstarchy vegetables that provide important nutrients. Diabetics can enjoy them in generous helpings. As a general rule for carbohydrate counters, the American Diabetes Association says you can enjoy 1 cup of cooked or 2 cups of raw nonstarchy vegetables at a time and not worry about counting the carbohydrates because so much of their carbohydrates are fiber.
Starchy Vegetables
Starchy vegetables, such as potatoes, peas, corn and butternut squash, also provide many important vitamins and minerals, but you must limit them because of the carbohydrates they contain. You can still enjoy these vegetables occasionally in small servings without throwing your blood sugar out of balance if you are careful in planning your diet. Talk to your dietitian about how much starch you can consume to stay within your body's limit.
Caution
Consider how your vegetables are prepared and the other ingredients in a dish before digging in. For instance, a cup of steamed broccoli or raw carrots are healthy choices, but a broccoli salad drowning in mayonnaise or cooked carrots bathed in butter and syrup are not vegetables you should consume large quantities of. High-fat and high-calorie toppings, sauces and dressings can take a vegetable off the healthy choice list. Controlling your blood sugar levels and your weight are essential for managing your diabetes.
