Diabetes is a chronic disease where your diet plays an important role. In fact, regulating and controlling your diet can improve your body’s repose to insulin and help in managing the ailment in the long run. The good thing is that the best foods for diabetes are simple every day staples and not some exotic ingredients. A healthy meal plan for a diabetic should include the following: high fiber, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, lean protein and fresh fruits and veggies.

We asked Dr. Sanjay Kalra, Consultant Endocrinologist at Bharti Hospital Karnal, to help us out here. “A diet that is low in carbohydrates and calories and naturally rich in nutrients with healthy fats in moderation is ideal for a person with diabetes,” he says. However, keeping a tab on your eating habits does not necessarily mean that you should live a life of deprivation. Managing diabetes is all about making some adjustments in terms of what you eat, how much you eat and when you eat. Here are some superfoods that can help you fight diabetes effectively.

1. Beetroot

Beetroots are not only delicious and satisfying but also low on the carbohydrate content. They are also a rich source of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and phytonutrients – all of which help in managing diabetes. When consumed the natural sugars in beetroot don’t get converted into glucose in the body too quickly which makes them good for diabetics. Beetroots are also high in a type of antioxidant called lipoic acid which protects your cells from the damage caused by aging.

2. Tomatoes

Rich in lycopene, tomatoes are great for your heart. They also reduce blood pressure and the risk of heart complications associated with diabetes. Tomatoes are packed with Vitamin C, Vitamin A and potassium. They are low-carb and also low in calories which make them a superfood for diabetics.

3. Pumpkin Seeds

Keep a handful of pumpkin seeds with you to fight cravings for fatty and sugary foods. They are rich in iron and unsaturated fats and help in suppressing your appetite. When it comes to snacking, always remember that the key is portion control.

4. Flaxseed 

Flaxseed contains large amounts of an insoluble fibre called lignan. Flaxseeds help in reducing the chances of heart complications and also the risk of strokes linked with diabetes. It regulates blood sugar levels in the body and improves gut health and insulin sensitivity.