5 Healthy diabetes-friendly foods

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Today, there are millions of people living with pre-diabetes or a full diagnosis of diabetes. Although medication may be necessary for treatment, living a healthy lifestyle complete with exercise, proper oral hygiene, and good food choices is imperative for diabetic patients.

Beans

Beans are not on a list of favorite foods for most people. However, beans are an excellent food for diabetic patients or patients who are at risk for developing the disease. Most beans are high in fiber and great sources of magnesium and potassium. Lentils, garbanzo, peas, and adzuki beans are all excellent options that not only are healthy but taste great. They can be prepared in a variety of ways so there is an option for every personality.

Nuts

There are many different choices for someone interested in nuts. Similar to beans, they is a favorite type of nut for every person. They contain healthy fats, magnesium, and fiber. Plus, they are filling so individuals can be satisfied with just a small handful. Almonds, walnuts, and cashews are favorites among most people and great choices for diabetic patients.

Sweet potatoes

Most people believe they cannot have starches and carbohydrates while living with diabetes or dieting for weight loss. However, that is not the case. Good carbohydrates are excellent options in smaller portions. Sweet potatoes are a good source of fiber and Vitamin A so they are filling and full of essential vitamins. Plus, they taste wonderful and help patients with diabetes who have massive cravings.

Berries

Of all the fruits available, berries should be found in everyone’s kitchen. They all offer amazing taste with the right amount of sweetness but are incredibly healthy. They are rich with antioxidants and fiber and very versatile. They can be thrown onto a salad of greens, placed in a bowl for a dessert, or snacked on in between meals. Strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries are staples for diabetic patients.

Whole grains

It is important for diabetic patients, individuals at risk of diabetes, and dieters to avoid refined sugars and flours such as white breads, pastas, and desserts. However, whole grains are very important in living a healthy diabetic lifestyle. They contain many nutrients that are necessary for basic function including vitamin E and B, fiber, magnesium, and selenium. Wheat, oats, barley, and quinoa are all good sources of whole grains that should be in every diabetic’s kitchen. Of course, it is important that patients not overindulge with whole grains.

When a patient is diagnosed with diabetes or learns they are at risk of developing the condition, they may be very nervous and scared. Fortunately, a diabetes diagnosis is not a death sentence. Living a healthy lifestyle full of healthy foods and exercise can help patients maintain a fulfilling life.

Sources for this article include:
http://www.helpguide.org/life/healthy_diet_diabetes.htm
http://www.joybauer.com/photo-gallery/best-foods-for-type-2-diabetes.aspx
http://www.rd.com/slideshows/10-diabetes-super-foods/

Sandeep Godiyal
Sandeep has written many health field articles for both Internet and print publication. His areas of expertise including traditional medicine, alternative and naturopathic and natural treatments, wellness, medical marijuana, diets and fitness.