Should Diabetics Eat Lentils?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Chickpeas, as well as and lentils, are well-known foods with a

low glycemic index

, making them good choices for , but new research suggests that eating legumes may actually have a therapeutic effect.

Which beans are good for diabetics?



Kidney beans, pinto beans, black beans, and garbanzo beans

are all great for blood glucose control,” says Jessica Bennett, a dietitian at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. “They're high in fiber and take a long time to digest.”

Can diabetics eat legumes?

The bottom line is that

beans should be a staple in your diet

, especially if you have diabetes. A study published in the journal JAMA found that eating more beans, lentils, and other legumes helped people with type 2 diabetes gain better glycemic control and lower their risk of heart disease.

Do beans spike blood sugar?

Although beans contain carbohydrates, they are low on the glycemic index (GI) scale and

do not cause significant spikes in a person's blood sugar levels

. Beans are a complex carbohydrate. The body digests this form more slowly than other carbohydrates, helping to keep blood sugar levels stable for longer.

Is legumes good for diabetes?

Much evidence supports the health benefits of consuming a plant-based diet and increasing the intake of legumes. A high intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes (beans), nuts, and seeds is

linked to significantly lower risks of heart disease

, high blood pressure, stroke, and type 2 diabetes (1,2).

Is beans on toast OK for diabetics?

Beans are a diabetes super food. The American Diabetes Association advises people with diabetes to

add dried beans or no-sodium canned beans to several meals each week

. They are low on the glycemic index and can help manage blood sugar levels better than many other starchy foods.

What diabetics Cannot eat?

  • Sugar-sweetened beverages. Sugary beverages are the worst drink choice for someone with diabetes. …
  • Trans fats. Artificial trans fats are extremely unhealthy. …
  • White bread, rice, and pasta. …
  • Fruit-flavored yogurt. …
  • Sweetened breakfast cereals. …
  • Flavored coffee drinks. …
  • Honey, agave nectar, and maple syrup. …
  • Dried fruit.

Why lentils are bad for you?

Lentils have

antinutrients and phytates

.

Lentils include antinutrients, such as trypsin inhibitors and phytic acid, which prevent some nutrients, proteins and amino acids from being absorbed. Phytates are compounds that hinder minerals in food from being absorbed into our bodies.

Is banana good for diabetes?


Bananas are a safe and nutritious fruit for people with diabetes to eat in moderation

as part of a balanced, individualized diet plan. A person with diabetes should include fresh, plant food options in the diet, such as fruits and vegetables. Bananas provide plenty of nutrition without adding many calories.

Can a diabetic eat baked potato?

Can people with diabetes eat potatoes? Although potatoes are a starchy vegetable, a person with diabetes

can still enjoy them as part of a healthful diet

. People with diabetes need to be aware of their carbohydrate intake at each meal.

Is Cabbage good for diabetics?

Broccoli, spinach, and cabbage are three

diabetes-friendly veggies

because they are low in starch. Filling up with vegetables is a great way to keep your blood sugar levels in check.

Is cheese bad for a diabetic?

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Cheese is safe in moderation for people with diabetes

. People with diabetes can safely eat cheese as part of a balanced, healthful diet. As with other foods, moderation is key, and so a diet that includes too much cheese would be harmful to people with or without diabetes.

Can drinking a lot of water lower your blood sugar?

Drinking water regularly helps rehydrate the blood,

lowers blood sugar levels

, and could reduce diabetes risk ( 16 , 17 , 18 , 19 ).

Is peanut butter good for diabetics?

Peanut butter contains essential nutrients, and

it can be part of a healthful diet when a person has diabetes

. However, it is important to eat it in moderation, as it contains a lot of calories. People should also make sure their brand of peanut butter is not high in added sugar, salt, or fat.

Is oatmeal good for diabetics?

Oatmeal offers a host of health benefits and can be a great go-to food for those

with diabetes

, as long as the portion is controlled. One cup of cooked oatmeal contains approximately 30 grams of carbs, which can fit into a healthy meal plan for people with diabetes.

Is rice bad for diabetics?

Rice is rich in carbohydrates and can have

a high GI score

. If you have diabetes, you may think that you need to skip it at dinner, but this isn't always the case. You can still eat rice if you have diabetes. You should avoid eating it in large portions or too frequently, though.

Sophia Kim
Author
Sophia Kim
Sophia Kim is a food writer with a passion for cooking and entertaining. She has worked in various restaurants and catering companies, and has written for several food publications. Sophia's expertise in cooking and entertaining will help you create memorable meals and events.