Diabetes is a chronic medical condition where the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or fails to use it correctly. As a result, a high amount of sugar stays in the bloodstream. If ignored, the problem can lead to heart disease, vision loss, and kidney disease over time. While medication is effective in managing the condition, diabetes and foods are also interlinked. Continue reading to know which veggies to eat and avoid with diabetes.

Best veggies for diabetes
When it comes to managing diabetes with foods, always go for fiber-rich and nutrient-dense vegetables. Fiber prevents a sudden spike in blood sugar levels, while nutrients are essential for staying healthy. Here are five veggies that work well:

1. Broccoli
Broccoli is packed with fiber and nutrients, irrespective of whether it’s raw or cooked. If you love sprouts, you can mix broccoli with sprouts as well. And if you want to spice it up further, try marinated broccoli and parmesan roasted broccoli.

2. Cabbage
Cabbage is another excellent veggie for diabetes as it’s low in starch. It also acts as a mild diuretic, meaning it aids digestion and regulates blood sugar levels after meals. In addition, the veggie is rich in vitamins A, C, D, E, and K, calcium, iron, and magnesium.

3. Asparagus
Asparagus is a delicious diabetic-friendly option that you can consider. The veggie is known to increase insulin sensitivity and manage blood sugar spikes. You can make it enjoyable by adding roasted asparagus to skillet meals, such as turkey stir-fry and chicken veggie skillet.

4. Cauliflower
Cauliflower is a low-carb option that has gained popularity among diabetics in recent times. You can have it in different recipes, such as garlic asiago cauliflower rice, cauliflower pizza crust, and cauliflower mash.

Worst veggies for diabetes
While the above options work well when it comes to diabetes and foods, certain others can have the opposite effect. The following are some vegetables that diabetics must avoid or at least have in moderation:

1. Potatoes
Potatoes top the list of worst veggies for people with diabetes. They’re incredibly high in carbs, which, when broken down, turn into sugar. Patients should avoid potatoes in all forms, including fries, roasted potatoes, and sweet potatoes.

2. Corn
Corn is another starchy food option with a high glycemic index. One ear of sweet corn has around 77 calories, 17g carbs, and 10g sugar, among other elements. So it would be best if you kept it off your plate.

3. Peas
Peas are another high-carb veggie that you should avoid. However, it’s still a better option than the two we mentioned above. Peas have certain fibers that are digested gradually, preventing sudden spikes in blood sugar levels.

Since diabetes and foods are interrelated, eating healthy, nutritious, and low-carb meals is necessary. Adherence to it will help keep diabetes-linked health complications at bay.