Diabetes Diet: 5 Low-Glycemic Vegetables Diabetics Must Add To Their Diet

Diabetes management requires management of blood sugar levels

Diabetes diet should include foods that can help in stabilising blood sugar levels. Glycemic index is a commonly used tool that helps determine foods that are safe for consumption by diabetics. It is a value that is used to measure how specific food affects blood sugar levels. It helps you understand how fast your body converts the carbs present in the food into glucose. Two foods with the same amount of carbs can have different glycemic index numbers.

Your diet must include lots of vegetables. They are loaded with essential nutrients and fibre that are beneficial for the body. Vegetables with low GI can be a part of a diabetes diet. The lower the GI number, the lesser is the impact on blood sugars. There are three GI ratings- low GI: 55 or less, Medium GI- 56-69 and High GI- 70 or above. Here's a list of vegetables with low GI that diabetes can add to their diet.

Diabetes diet: Low-GI vegetables for diabetics

1. Broccoli

Broccoli is a non-starchy vegetable that contains very few carbs. This green vegetable is loaded with essential nutrients that can beneficial for your overall health in several ways. It is also low in calories.

Broccoli is loaded with water and fibre
Photo Credit: iStock

2. Tomato

Tangy tomatoes are also beneficial for diabetics. These also have a low-GI ranking. Tomatoes are also good for your heart health. You can add tomatoes to different recipes. These can be consumed both raw and cooked.

Also read: Are You Eating Enough Tomatoes? If Not, Then You Must; Here's Why

3. Beets

Beetroot is a popular root vegetable that contains essential vitamins, plant compounds and minerals. It is low in calories and high in vitamin C that can boost your immunity levels too.

Also read: Beetroot Health Benefits: Weight Loss, Controlled Blood Pressure, Better Digestion And Much More; Know All Benefits Beetroot Can Offer

4. Spinach

Spinach is one of the healthiest leafy greens. It is beneficial for diabetics as well as for weight loss. You can add spinach to salads, soups, sandwiches and other recipes. Boiled spinach can also be a part of your diet.

A cup of boiled spinach can help in weight loss
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5. Carrot

Carrots have a GI score of 39. Carrots contain protein and fibre. Carrot veggie sticks are a healthy snack you can try to beat hunger pangs in the evening.

Also read: Carrot Juice Health Benefits: Health Coach Luke Coutinho Tells Why You Must Include It In Your Diet

Vegetables are power-packed with nutrients. Diabetics should first consume in moderation. Later, you may consult your doctor to know the exact quantity that suits your diet. Number of carbs also affects the blood sugar levels. GI also has certain limitations as it may vary in cooked and raw form of the same vegetable.

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.