The Best Foods for Diabetes - By Martin Greenfield, MD

Expert Author
Dr. Martin Greenfield Endocrinology-Diabetes Lake Success, New York

Dr. Martin Greenfield practices Endocrinology in Lake Success, New York. Dr. Greenfield specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases related to hormone imbalance, and the bodys glands in the endocrine system. Endocrinologists are trained and certified to treat a variety of conditions, including menopause,... more

The best way to control type 2 diabetes is changing your diet to include important nutrients. These are the best foods to eat if you have diabetes. 

1. Low-carb vegetables

Vegetables with few carbs include artichokes, asparagus, broccoli and beets. These greens can boost your overall intake of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

2. Unsweetened Greek Yogurt

Those who eat yogurt daily have a 14 percent lower risk of type 2 diabetes. Unsweetened Greek yogurt contains a large amount of probiotics, calcium, and protein.

3. Tomatoes

Both raw and cooked tomatoes have a lot of lycopene, which is a substance that can lower your risk for cancer, macular degeneration, and heart disease. Heart disease is one of the most common complications of heart disease.

4. Blueberries and other berries

Let's face it, blueberries and other berries are great sources of antioxidants. They can help reduce the risk of both heart disease and cancer.

5. Fish with omega-3 fatty acids

Wild salmon and other fish with omega-3 fatty acids can lower the risk for heart disease. Herring, sardines, and mackerel are also full of nutrients. Try finding ways to fit them into your diet.

6. Nuts and seeds

Walnuts and flax seeds are great sources of magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, and fiber. Walnuts also have alpha-linolenic acid, which is a fatty acid that improves heart health and reduces cholesterol.

7. Beans, beans, beans

Beans are high in fiber and protein, and they also contain important minerals like magnesium and potassium.

8. Whole grains

Barley and lentils are whole grains that have a ton of antioxidants and fiber. They help keep your digestive system healthy and maintain your blood sugar levels.