When you suffer from diabetes, there are a lot of things that you are not allowed to eat. However, instead of concentrating on the foods that you are to eliminate from the diet, you should dedicate some time to those that are diabetes-friendly and quite good for your health.

In the paragraphs that are found below, you will find no less than 10 amazing diabetes friendly foods to boost your health. Enjoy your read and do not hesitate to give all of our suggestions a try.

#1 Dark chocolate

Dark chocolate is more beneficial than you think, as it has a high content in antioxidants (flavonoids) and it can reduce the insulin resistance, a common feature of diabetes.

The regular consumption of dark chocolate can actually improve insulin sensitivity, with a reduced risk of cravings. Moreover, it can lower the risk of stroke and heart attacks, helping you fight off chronic disease.

#2 Broccoli

We have often heard about broccoli being presented as a super food. However, this is also a diabetes-friendly vegetable, given the fact that it contains sulforaphane.

This substance is also found in other vegetables, such as kale and cauliflower, being recognized for its anti-inflammatory properties.

Basically, the regular consumption of broccoli allows you to keep your blood sugar levels under control, reducing the risk of cardiovascular damage (commonly seen in diabetes).

#3 Blueberries

Blueberries are well known for their high antioxidant levels but also for the fact that they deliver a good quantity of fiber to the body. When you consume blueberries, you clean out the arteries and, at the same time, keep the blood sugar level under control.

Moreover, they are known to increase the sensitivity to insulin, which is quite beneficial for diabetes patients.

#4 Fish

Tuna

Given the high content of omega-3 fatty acids, it should come as no surprise that fish is recommended to be consumed by diabetes patients.

The protein content reduces the inflammation that is commonly encountered in such situations, eliminating the risk for associated complications, such as stroke.

#5 Olive oil

The Mediterranean diet is often recommended to patients who have been diagnosed with diabetes, with olive oil standing atop the list of prescribed foods.

According to the latest health news, olive oil can even reduce the risk of developing diabetes by 50%. Moreover, this particular type of oil can provide the brain with a faster satiety sensation, reducing the risk of overindulging in certain types of foods.

#6 Spinach

Spinach is renowned for its healthy properties and it is indeed a recommended choice for those who suffer from diabetes, given its high content in vitamins and minerals (vitamin K, magnesium, folate, zinc, potassium and phosphorus).

Moreover, spinach has a high content in antioxidants, such as flavonoids, reducing the risk of arterial damage that is seen in diabetes patients.

#7 Walnuts

We all know that walnuts are good for the brain but recent studies have confirmed them to be excellent for diabetes. It seems that walnuts contain a number of healthy fats, these presenting anti-inflammatory properties.

Moreover, the phytochemicals contained in walnuts have antioxidant properties, being able to stop the progression of diabetes (preventing thus the appearance of serious complications).

#8 Cinnamon

Even though it is not a food per say, cinnamon can reduce the blood sugar level of patients with diabetes.

A study that was published in a scientific magazine dedicated to the subject of diabetes care, demonstrated that the daily consumption of cinnamon can reduce the blood sugar level by 30%.

Moreover, cinnamon was able to reduce the cholesterol level at the same time. This is because cinnamon is rich in chromium, a substance that can stimulate the proper functioning of the insulin hormone.

#9 Collard greens

Collard greens are definitely recommended for diabetes patients, as they can help one keep the blood sugar level under control. In the situation of patients diagnosed with diabetic neuropathy, the regular consumption of collard greens has been known to strengthen the nerves and prevent further damage.

#10 Cannellini beans

Cannellini beans are among the most indicated legumes for diabetes patients, given their high content of proteins and fibers.

A study undertaken in 2012 at the University of Toronto demonstrated that the daily consumption of cannellini beans was able to lower the blood sugar level in diabetes patients. So, the next time you are looking for new recipes, consider those that contain such legumes.

There are many more foods out there that are diabetes friendly, including steel-cut oats, sweet potatoes and quinoa.

Spices such as cinnamon and turmeric can help you keep the blood sugar level under control, while fiber supplements such as psyllium husk are recommended for similar purposes.

Keep in mind, there is no better way to control your condition other than through a healthy diet, containing diabetes friendly foods.

About the Author
Katleen BrownKatleen Brown is a health, beauty and fitness writer. She loves to publish her articles on various health related websites. In her spare time, likes to do research to bring awareness and writes for Glozine magazine. Recognizing the unity of body, mind, and outlook, she helps empower women to tune into their innate & inner wisdom to transform their health and truly flourish. Get in touch with her on Pinterest and Twitter.