10 Best Foods for Type 2 Diabetes to Lower Blood Sugar

 The ten best foods for type 2 diabetes to lower blood sugar are as follows, in no particular order

1) Oatmeal

Oatmeal is great for breakfast, says Matt McCarron, RD, a nutritionist and diabetes educator in Chicago. That’s because it fills you up with fiber without spiking your blood sugar. The American Diabetes Association recommends that people with diabetes have three small meals and one to two snacks a day rather than two or three large ones.

2) Soy Milk

Diabetics tend to be at an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, so it’s important that they keep their blood pressure low by eating foods that are high in potassium and magnesium. Soy milk is a great source of both nutrients; a half-cup serving contains more than 300 mg of potassium and almost 200 mg of magnesium. Additionally, soy milk has been shown to lower LDL cholesterol levels, thereby reducing one’s risk of heart disease.

3) Cranberries

Did you know that cranberries are one of nature’s best sources of phytonutrients, which help fight inflammation and disease? Cranberries also contain antioxidants and prebiotics, which aid in digestion. And they may even decrease your risk of heart disease! It’s a good idea to toss fresh or frozen cranberries into your oatmeal, yogurt parfaits, smoothies, and more.

4) Oranges

Though rich in vitamin C, oranges also contain a substance called hesperidin that helps prevent your body from absorbing carbohydrates. This is why many diabetics recommend eating an orange before every meal.

5) Whole Grains

Eating whole grains, such as brown rice and whole-wheat bread, is an effective way to manage your blood sugar and maintain a healthy weight. Eating just two servings of whole grains per day can help you lower your risk of type 2 diabetes by 15 percent. Consider purchasing foods made with 100 percent whole grains, which will be labeled 100% Whole Grain on their packaging. However, if you’re sensitive to wheat or gluten, there are still plenty of healthy options for lowering your blood sugar!

6) Tomatoes

Tomatoes are rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, which may help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation. Plus, they’re a low-calorie fruit with a wide range of health benefits. For example, if you have high cholesterol or heart disease, consuming tomatoes regularly can significantly lower your risk of developing heart disease or a stroke. They also aid in digestion and may even help alleviate symptoms of menopause.

7) Broccoli

It’s difficult for Type 2 diabetics to control their blood sugar levels due to insulin resistance. However, one of the best foods you can eat if you have diabetes is broccoli. According to Dr. Axe, broccoli is a good source of vitamin C and fiber, which help lower blood sugar levels. In addition, broccoli contains many powerful antioxidants that boost insulin sensitivity and fight chronic inflammation in your body.

8) Beans

Beans are low in carbs and high in fiber, making them a beneficial addition to a type 2 diabetes diet. A study published in May 2017 in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that eating just one-half cup of beans per day can reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 34 percent. Research has also shown that individuals who eat beans regularly are more likely to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

9) Peanuts

Peanuts contain polyphenols and phytosterols that improve insulin sensitivity and reduce insulin resistance. They’re also rich in fiber, protein, healthy fats and vitamins E and B6. Peanuts are a great source of magnesium, which has been shown to improve blood sugar control in people with diabetes type 1 or type 2.

10) Corn

Corn is a source of fiber, and fiber has been shown to help lower blood sugar. Corn is also a source of resistant starch, which helps regulate insulin levels in our bodies and can also aid in lowering blood sugar. Sweet corn is considered one of the best foods for type 2 diabetes because it’s higher in nutrients than normal corn, like folate and vitamin C. One cup provides 12 percent of your daily needs!