Diet plays an important role in controlling glucose levels and managing diabetes symptoms to great extent.
However, it is very difficult to design a diet chart for diabetes patients, especially what vegetables are safe in diabetes. This is because some vegetables like potato can spike blood sugar levels.
Therefore, diabetics must avoid vegetables that have high sugar or calorie content. There are a set of other vegetables that diabetics can consume safely because of their high fibre content and low glycemic-index.
Here are some of the best vegetables for diabetics. Take a look below:
1. Broccoli
Broccoli is best suited for diabetic patients because of its high fibre and low-calorie content. It is rich in vitamins A and C. Broccoli also contains a sulphur-rich compound called sulforaphane which may help regulate the body’s blood sugar levels.
2. Ladyfinger
Ladyfinger, also known as okra works well in reducing blood sugar levels. The gooey liquid that comes out when you cut okra helps regulate the glucose levels in the body. Soak sliced okra in a glass of water and drink it early in the morning to manage diabetes.
3. Carrots
Carrots contain an antioxidant called beta-carotene that helps reduce insulin levels in the body. It also contains Vitamin A which boosts the functioning of the immune system.
4. Beans
Beans are another healthy option that a diabetic patient can include in their diet. They are rich sources of iron, calcium, potassium, vitamin A, folate and magnesium. Beans also contain fibre and protein besides having lower GI levels. Lower glycemic index foods are natural combatants against diabetes.
5. Cabbage
Cabbage is the best way to add vitamins A and K to the diabetic diet. It is also a rich source of manganese, fibre and vitamin B6. Cabbage helps lower blood sugar levels in the body and ensures the proper functioning of the pancreas. Pancreas release the vital enzyme called insulin which controls blood sugar levels in the body.
6. Cauliflower
Cauliflower is a low-carbohydrate veggie. It provides a daily intake of vitamin C. The good amount of iron, calcium and fibre may effectively help reduce the blood sugar levels.
7. Cucumber
Cucumber is a low-carb choice for people with diabetes. It helps you keep a check on the rise of blood sugar levels. Cucumber is a good source of vitamin K along with potassium and vitamin C.
8. Tomato
Tomato is another superfood for diabetes. It is packed with vitamin C and is a good source for vitamin A, potassium and fibre. A diabetic must include tomatoes in their daily diabetic diet.
9. Beetroot
Beetroot is rich in potassium and vitamin C. It can prove to be a great vegetable for diabetics as it can help keep up the energy levels and reduce diabetes-related fatigue. Beetroots have the ability to regulate blood sugar levels as well as blood pressure levels in the body. One glass of beetroot juice can lower systolic blood pressure by almost 5 points.
10. Bitter gourd
Bitter gourd, also known as karela contains Polypeptide-p that helps lower glucose levels naturally. Juice made from bitter gourd makes for an excellent beverage for diabetics.
