Managing diabetes is not just about lowering blood sugar levels. The aim is also to prevent serious complications, such as heart disease and stroke. So, people with diabetes must carefully choose what they put on the plate, stay hydrated by drinking enough water each day, and keep up on medications and vaccinations (look into Novavax booster shot news for diabetes) to help stabilize blood sugar levels. Several foods have been known to regulate blood sugar and decrease the risk of complications. Herein, let’s take a look at the best foods that help control diabetes.

1. Oats
Oats are well-known for regulating blood sugar levels. They contain a type of soluble fiber called beta-glucans. Several studies have concluded that beta-glucans can reduce blood sugar, improve insulin sensitivity, and help maintain healthy cholesterol levels. In general, soluble fiber helps decrease the breakdown and absorption rates of carbohydrates from all foods, maintaining healthy blood sugar. So, people with diabetes must consider eating a bowl of oatmeal every day.

2. Fatty fish
Fatty fish are the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA, both of which are extremely healthy for the heart. These nutrients help reduce inflammation and improve the function of arteries. Since people with diabetes are at an increased risk of complications like heart disease and stroke, they must eat fatty fish regularly. Fatty fish varieties one must consider adding to the diet include salmon, mackerel, herring, anchovies, tuna, and trout.

3. Leafy greens
Leafy green vegetables are full of beneficial nutrients but are still low in carbohydrates and calories. That means even loading up on these veggies will not raise the blood sugar level by much. Spinach and kale are considered the best leafy greens for those with diabetes, as they are high in vitamin C. This vitamin has been proven beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes. Moreover, leafy greens also contain antioxidants that prevent eye damage caused by high blood sugar.

4. Nuts
Nuts are among the best foods that help control diabetes. They are low in carbohydrates and high in fiber, so they won’t cause a spike in blood sugar levels. However, some nuts are high in carbohydrates, so one must choose cautiously. The best types of nuts for people with diabetes include walnuts, almonds, pistachios, Brazil nuts, cashews, macadamia, and hazelnuts. Certain nuts, such as walnuts, can also help fight heart disease.

5. Certain spices
Spices like cinnamon and turmeric help manage diabetes. Cinnamon is a fragrant spice that can not only lower blood sugar but also enhance the body’s insulin sensitivity. Incorporating this spice into the daily diet is easy. Simply sprinkle a little over smoothies, yogurt, oatmeal, or coffee. Turmeric is a yellow spice that has been proven to reduce inflammation and blood sugar levels. It also lowers the risk of heart disease. It can be sprinkled over salads or added to curries and stir-fried recipes.

6. Seeds
Chia seeds and flax seeds help control diabetes. Chia seeds are loaded with fiber and are low in digestible carbohydrates. They are quite effective at lowering blood sugar levels. Flax seeds play a similar role while decreasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Another reason to include chia seeds and flax seeds in the diet is that both help reduce blood pressure and offer many other health benefits.