Diabetes is a long-term and chronic health condition that influences how the body turns food into energy. It is a metabolic disease wherein the body fails to produce the required insulin or fails to use the insulin it makes. When there is a lower level of insulin in circulation in the body, the cells stop responding to insulin.

Due to this, a higher level of blood sugar gets deposited into the bloodstream. If this condition is not treated, it can result in serious health problems such as heart disease, vision loss, or kidney disease. The best thing is that diabetes can be managed by eating certain foods. A healthy meal plan for a diabetic should ideally contain high fiber, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, lean protein, and fresh fruits, and veggies.

Here is a list of superfoods that helps manage diabetes:

1. Beans
When talking about diabetes and foods, beans cannot be left out. Whatever the type of bean it is, be it kidney, pinto, navy, or black bean, they all are packed with vitamins and minerals such as magnesium and potassium. Further, beans are rich in soluble fiber too.

2. Dark green leafy vegetables
Regular consumption of dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach, collards, and kale is extremely good if one has diabetes. Most of the dark green leafy vegetables come packed with a host of vitamins and minerals such as vitamins A, C, E, and K, iron, calcium, and potassium. Further, they are low in calories and carbohydrates too. One can add these veggies to salads, soups, and stews.

3. Citrus fruit
All citrus fruits such as grapefruits, oranges, lemons, and limes are good for overall health. One should have citrus fruits regularly for their daily dose of fiber, vitamin C, folate, and potassium.

4. Berries
Blueberries, strawberries, gooseberries, and raspberries come packed with healthy antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. Further, berries are also the storehouse of vitamin C, vitamin K, manganese, potassium, and fiber.

5. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are rich in many essential nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin E, and potassium. Adding this colorful veggie to one’s meals can help one manage the condition.

6. Milk and yogurt
Milk and yogurt are incredibly rich in calcium and ensure that one’s bone and teeth stay strong. In addition to calcium, milk and yogurt are a storehouse of vitamin D and carbohydrates too. Thus, they help in the management of diabetes. Always look for milk products that are low in fat and added sugar.

Since diabetes and foods are interrelated, conscious meal planning is extremely important to control diabetes.