Vegetables are a great addition to any diet, including a diabetic meal plan. They are usually low in calories and high in nutrients that can help stave off complications, like heart disease. Plus, non-starchy veggies have little to no carbs. This means they won’t raise your blood sugar levels, and you can eat a lot of them.
Are you getting hungry yet?
Well, if you’re thinking about cooking a meal, add one of these five must-have veggies to your plate. They’ll help fill you up without raising your caloric intake or your sugars.
#1 Red Peppers
#1 Red PeppersThese lovely, bright red veggies are full of antioxidants, beta-carotene, and vitamin C—all of which help reduce the risk of developing heart disease.
#2 Broccoli
Lots of people love broccoli, especially with a little cheese sauce. You’ll be surprised to find that this green veggie contains more vitamin C than an orange per 100-gram serving. It also boasts high levels of glucosinolates, which are sulfur-containing compounds that may help reduce the risk of heart disease.
#3 Avocados
When you’re craving rich, fatty foods, reach for an avocado. These green-fleshed beauties are loaded with ‘good’ monosaturated fats that can lower cholesterol levels and the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
#4 Carrots
Not only great on salads and in cakes but carrots are also loaded with the antioxidant beta-carotene. Even better, you can enjoy them as a ‘free’ food snack anytime. According to the American Diabetes Association, you can eat five baby carrots and not have to count them on your meal plan.
#5 Kale
#5 KaleThose big, ruffled leaves of kale contain almost all of the vital nutrients your body needs to run smoothly. They are also green leafy veggies that can be used in everything from chips and dip to wraps and soups.
[expand title=”References“]
Non-starchy Vegetables. URL Link. Accessed May 12, 2017
Top 25 Power Foods for Diabetes. URL Link. Accessed May 12, 2017
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