8 Diabetes-Friendly Foods

Fish

Fish is free of carbohydrates, so it does not cause a spike in blood sugar. Fish is also packed with protein, vitamin D, calcium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, magnesium, iodine, and potassium and is considered the best source of omega-3 fatty acids. In addition, the nutrients found in fish reduce the risk of heart disease. Because of mercury levels in fish, experts recommend eating up to two meals per week that include it. Mercury is a toxin that is believed to impair blood sugar control, so it is best to limit intake of fish that are high in mercury. Mercury-laden fish include the larger, predatorial types of fish, such as swordfish, marlin, tuna, Chilean sea bass, grouper, bluefish, halibut, sablefish (black cod), and Spanish mackerel (Gulf). Fish with lower mercury levels may include anchovies, canned light tuna, flounder, catfish, haddock, salmon, trout, whitefish, mackerel (some types), sardines, pollock, hake, herring, and butterfish.