What are the best vegetables for managing type 2 diabetes and lowering A1C levels?

Eating vegetables is a great way to manage blood sugar levels for people with type 2 diabetes. A diet rich in vegetables can also help with weight loss, which is important since being overweight is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes. The American Diabetes Association recommends a low-carb diet with plenty of vegetables. Some vegetables are better than others for managing diabetes. Starchy vegetables like corn, potatoes, and yams are high in carbohydrates and can affect blood sugar levels. However, they are still better than refined carbs like white rice and pasta because they contain more fiber and essential vitamins. Low-carb vegetables are ideal for filling up without spiking blood sugar levels. The CDC suggests that people with diabetes get about 45% of their calories from carbohydrates, with the rest coming from lean proteins and healthy fats. A good plate method is to fill half your plate with non-starchy vegetables, a quarter with lean protein, and a quarter with starchy vegetables or whole grains. Vegetables high in soluble fiber, like Brussels sprouts and asparagus, can help lower post-meal blood sugar levels. If you have trouble digesting vegetables, work with your healthcare team to find the ones you can tolerate. Gradually increasing fiber intake and drinking plenty of water can also help. A balanced diet with a variety of nutrients can prevent complications from diabetes, such as cardiovascular disease. Eating colorful vegetables ensures you get a variety of vitamins and minerals. Antioxidants in vegetables can prevent or delay diabetes complications. People on metformin should also eat foods rich in vitamin B12. Some diabetes-friendly, low-carb vegetables include spinach, tomatoes, broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, and asparagus. These vegetables are low in carbs and high in essential vitamins and minerals.