Type 2 Diabetes is a growing problem around the world. This chronic disease affects the way your body processes sugar, and if left untreated, can lead to serious health problems like blindness, heart disease, and kidney damage.
While there is no surefire way to prevent or cure diabetes, certain foods can help lower your risk of developing the disease. Here, we take a look at 30 foods that you can incorporate into your diet to help lower your risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes.
Leafy Greens
Leafy greens are packed with nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber that keep your blood sugar levels stable. Spinach, kale, and collard greens are all great options to add to your diet.
Non-Starchy Vegetables
Similar to leafy greens, non-starchy vegetables like cucumbers, zucchini, and bell peppers, are also great options for keeping your blood sugar levels stable.
Plus, they’re low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great choice for weight management.
Whole Grains
Whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, and whole wheat bread, are packed with fiber and other nutrients that help keep your blood sugar levels steady. Plus, they can also help manage weight, which is an important factor in diabetes prevention.
Legumes
Legumes like beans, lentils, and chickpeas are also high in fiber and can help regulate blood sugar levels. Plus, they’re a great source of plant-based protein, making them a great option for a well-rounded diet.
Nuts
Nuts like almonds, walnuts, and pistachios, are a great source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. They can also help control blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of developing diabetes.
However, be sure to eat them in moderation, as they are also high in calories.
Seeds
Seeds like chia, flax, and hemp seeds are also high in fiber and healthy fats, making them a great option for regulating blood sugar levels. Plus, they can be added to a variety of dishes for extra flavor and nutritional value.
Fatty Fish
Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines, are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to have numerous health benefits, including reducing the risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes.
Plus, they’re also a great source of protein, making them a great option for a well-rounded diet.
Low-Fat Dairy
While some studies have shown that high-fat dairy products can increase the risk of developing diabetes, low-fat dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt, may actually help reduce the risk.
This is likely due to the nutrients like calcium and vitamin D that are found in these products.
Berries
Berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, are not only delicious, but they’re also packed with fiber and antioxidants that can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of developing diabetes.
Plus, they’re a great option for satisfying a sweet tooth without consuming too much sugar.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a great source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to reduce the risk of developing diabetes. Plus, they’re also low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great addition to any meal.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including the ability to help regulate blood sugar levels. Plus, it adds a delicious flavor to a variety of dishes, making it an easy addition to any diet.
Ginger
Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that have been shown to help lower blood sugar levels in people with Type 2 Diabetes. Plus, it adds a flavorful kick to a variety of dishes and can be brewed into a soothing tea.
Garlic
Garlic has been shown to help lower blood sugar levels in people with Type 2 Diabetes. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to add flavor to a variety of dishes.
Avocado
Avocado is high in healthy fats and fiber, which can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of developing diabetes. Plus, it’s a delicious addition to salads, sandwiches, and more.
Olives
Olives are high in healthy fats and antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of developing diabetes. Plus, they add flavor to a variety of dishes and can be used as a healthy snack.
Onions
Onions are a good source of quercetin, a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of developing diabetes. Plus, they’re a flavorful addition to soups, salads, and more.
Broccoli
Broccoli is packed with nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber, all of which can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of developing diabetes. Plus, it’s a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a great source of fiber and vitamins like vitamin A, which can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of developing diabetes. Plus, they’re delicious roasted, mashed, or baked.
Apples
Apples are a great source of fiber and antioxidants, which can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of developing diabetes.
Plus, they’re a sweet and delicious snack that can be eaten on their own or paired with nut butter for added protein and healthy fats.
Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate, in moderation, may help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of developing diabetes. It’s also a delicious treat that can satisfy a sweet tooth without consuming too much sugar.
Vinegar
Vinegar has been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels in people with Type 2 Diabetes. It can be added to salads, drizzled over vegetables, or used in marinades for a flavorful and healthy addition to dishes.
Quinoa
Quinoa is a great source of fiber and nutrients like magnesium, which can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of developing diabetes.
Plus, it’s a versatile grain that can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to stir-fries.
Carrots
Carrots are a great source of fiber and beta-carotene, a nutrient that has been shown to reduce the risk of developing diabetes. Plus, they’re a delicious and crunchy addition to salads, soups, and more.
Peppers
Peppers are a great source of vitamin C and other nutrients that can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of developing diabetes.
Plus, they come in a variety of colors and can be used in a variety of dishes, from stir-fries to stuffed peppers.
Beets
Beets are a great source of fiber and antioxidants, which can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation. Plus, they’re a delicious addition to salads and can be roasted, boiled, or steamed for a flavorful side dish.
Salad Greens
Salad greens like arugula, watercress, and romaine lettuce, are a great source of vitamins and minerals that can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of developing diabetes.
Plus, they’re a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of salads and other dishes.
Salmon
Salmon is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and lower the risk of developing diabetes.
Plus, it’s a delicious and versatile fish that can be grilled, baked, or sautéed for a flavorful and healthy main dish.
: Conclusion
While there is no surefire way to prevent or cure Type 2 Diabetes, incorporating these 30 foods into your diet can help lower your risk of developing the disease.
With a variety of options like leafy greens, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and more, there are plenty of delicious and healthy choices to help keep your blood sugar levels stable. Plus, many of these foods can also help manage weight, which is an important factor in diabetes prevention. So, try adding some of these foods to your diet today and take a step towards a healthier lifestyle.