If you suffer from diabetes, you surely know by now that you need to refrain from foods which are high in sugar. But the bitter truth is, simply refraining from sugar is not going to help you treat your diabetes. While many foods claim to be diabetic-friendly, not all are backed by sufficient research. That is why we bring to you a list of the top eight superfoods for diabetics, which are a ‘must-have in every diabetics’ diet.

1. Ginger

This root has been extensively used in Indian medicine for centuries. The anti-inflammatory properties found in ginger roots could help prevent diabetic complications. According to a study done in the year 2015, the daily consumption of ginger powder could help regulate insulin resistance and lower blood sugar levels in diabetic patients.

2. Broccoli

This cruciferous vegetable is low in calories but high in vitamins, minerals, and healthy antioxidants. Eating a bowl of broccoli daily can reduce insulin levels and also protect cells from free radicals, produced during the process of metabolism.  Healthy antioxidants found in broccoli, such as lutein and zeaxanthin, protect against eye diseases and help reduce oxidative stress levels in diabetic patients. Add broccoli to your salads, eat it boiled, or add it to a stir-fry recipe!

3. Blue Berries

These little berries pack a powerful health punch! They are loaded with fiber and inflammation-fighting antioxidants, which flush out fat from your system and keep a check on blood sugar levels. A study done by the Louisiana State University reports that the bioactive compounds found in blueberries help improve insulin insensitivity in obese individuals, as well as, insulin resistance in both men and women.

4. Beetroot

Even though Beetroots are high in natural sugar content, they have a ton of health benefits to offer, especially to diabetic patients. This purple coloured root vegetable is rich in fiber, potassium, and nitrate content which helps improve cognitive function in diabetics. They are also a rich source of betalain and neo betanin nutrients which increase insulin sensitivity and protect against oxidative stress. So add this veggie into salads, dishes, or juice it to enjoy a delicious detoxifying drink.

5. Kale

This leafy vegetable is loaded with vitamin C and healthy nutrients, which help reduce inflammatory markers and fasting blood sugar levels for diabetic. Kale contains over 45 different flavonoids including quercetin and kaempferol which have powerful anti-inflammatory health benefits on the body.  So add this diabetic superfood into your diet in the form of salads or maybe a healthy green shake!

6. Avocado

This fruit is high in monounsaturated fats which can help improve insulin sensitivity in diabetic patients. Avocados are also rich in oleic and vitamin C which help reduce sorbitol blood sugar levels. This green fruit improves heart health and lowers the risk of heart disease and strokes.

7. Fatty Fish

This seafood is loaded with Omega-3 fatty acids which help improve heart health. Apart from being great for cholesterol patients, fish is also a good choice for diabetics. Salmon, sardines, and mackerel are a rich source of healthy fats which are essential for diabetic patients. Consuming fish 3-4 times a week can effectively increase insulin sensitivity.

8. Chia seeds

These little seeds are loaded with fiber and are a well-known diabetes superfood. Consuming chia seeds daily can help lower high blood sugar levels, as well as, aid weight loss. They are also rich in a–linoleic acid which can improve cardiovascular conditions.

 Thus, the best way to treat diabetes is by eating the right kind of foods. So start adding these diabetic superfoods into your diet right away!