Low-Protein Diabetic Foods

Low-Protein Diabetic Foods

More than 80 million adults living in the U.S. suffer from diabetes or pre-diabetes, the American Diabetes association states. Diabetes greatly increases the chances of suffering from complications such as kidney disease, vision loss and cardiovascular disease. Follow the diet and medication recommendations given to you by your doctor. If you're looking to limit the protein in your diet, consider adding these diabetic-friendly low-protein foods to your diet.

Broccoli

If you're diabetic and overweight, adding fresh vegetables to your diet is an important aspect of weight loss, the Centers for Disease Control states. Veggies are rich in dietary fiber -- a nutrient that controls appetite and delays the passage of carbohydrates in the intestine. Broccoli also contains a special antioxidant known as sulforaphane. This compound switches on enzymes in the body that repair damage to your blood vessels caused by elevated blood sugar levels. A single cup of chopped broccoli contains only 2 g protein.

Blueberries

Blueberries contain more antioxidants than most other fruits, the U.S. Blueberry Council states. The antioxidants in fresh blueberries -- known as anthocyanins -- may reduce your blood sugar levels, Fox News reports. Like most fruits, blueberries are very low in protein. Blueberries go great as part of diabetic-friendly foods like low-fat yogurt, whole-grain cereal and fruit salad.

Oats

Oats are a whole-grain food that are low in protein but rich in soluble fiber. A diet rich in soluble fiber can significantly lower elevated cholesterol -- a cardiovascular disease risk factor commonly found alongside diabetes. Whole grains are preferable for diabetics because they don't create the blood sugar "spikes" that many other carbohydrate-rich foods do, the American Diabetes Association reports. Opt for old-fashioned oats with no added sugar. To make your oatmeal more flavorful, consider adding cut fresh fruit into your bowl.

Yams

Starchy vegetables are a healthy way for diabetics to get carbohydrates, the American Diabetes Association states. Yams are ideal for diabetics as they are low on the glycemic index -- a measure of how quickly carbohydrates end up in your blood as blood glucose. Yam's glycemic index is significantly lower than that of other starchy veggies like potatoes and peas, Harvard University reports.

source : livestrong.com