Type 2 diabetes occurs when blood sugar is higher than normal range, causing symptoms of fatigue, blurred vision, frequent infections, increased thirst, and frequent urination. Food can play a role in diabetes management:

1. Spinach
Spinach, even when eaten in large quantities, helps in maintaining blood sugar levels and in controlling diabetes. Fiber, one of the nutrients found in spinach, is good in controlling sugar levels because it slows down the absorption of sugar. Aside from being a rich source of fiber and other nutrients, spinach is also a non-starchy vegetable, it’s low in carbohydrate, low in calories, and considered a low glycaemic index food.

2. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is one of the foods that can help in lowering blood sugar and managing diabetes. This aromatic and tasty spice is a rich source of antioxidants, which has many health benefits. Studies show that antioxidants found in cinnamon helps in reducing oxidative stress in prediabetic adults. In addition, cinnamon helps in controlling diabetes by increasing insulin sensitivity and by imitating insulin effects, leading to an increase in glucose transport into cells.

3. Nuts
Healthier snacks, such as cashew, almond and walnut nuts, are the best options for prediabetic and diabetic people. Nuts have many health benefits; they help in keeping blood sugar low, they reduce the risk of heart disease, and they help with weight loss and maintenance. Nuts contain monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which lower LDL cholesterol and increased HDL cholesterol.

4. Eggs
The American Diabetes Association highly recommends eggs for people with diabetes. Eggs, consumed in low quantities, can help maintain a healthy blood sugar because it only contains half a gram of carbohydrates. Though, eggs contain high cholesterol, so people with diabetes need to consume eggs moderately and monitor cholesterol levels.

5. Turmeric
Results from a study conducted by Diabetes Care found that turmeric can reverse prediabetes. It can also help in managing glucose levels, improving insulin resistance and cholesterol levels.

6. Broccoli
Scientists consider broccoli as a potential new treatment for type II diabetes. Broccoli contains health properties that are beneficial for people with diabetes. It’s a good source of antioxidants, vitamin A, and vitamin C, which help in lowering and maintaining blood sugar.

7. Flaxseeds
Adding flaxseed to the diet can improve the health of people with diabetes. Flaxseed contains nutrients such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, soluble fiber, and lignans. These exceptional nutrients help in managing diabetes by improving insulin sensitivity, slowing the development of diabetes, and controlling weight.

8. Strawberries
Strawberries are some of the few fruits that contain low amounts of carbohydrates, which makes them better fruit options for prediabetic and diabetic people. Like other fruits and vegetables, strawberries also contain antioxidants and other rich nutrients. People who eat fresh fruits, such as strawberries, have lower risk of developing diabetes.

9. Garlic
Garlic is a herb that is used to cook many dishes around the world and has great nutritional characteristics that help with diabetes management. Aside from helping with weight management and controlling blood sugar, garlic helps with carbohydrate metabolism regulation.