Beans and lentils

Beans are an excellent diabetic food. People with diabetes should have dried beans or low-sodium canned beans in several meals each week, according to the American Diabetes Association. They have a low glycemic index, making them better for controlling blood sugar levels than many other starchy foods.

Beans and lentils are high in magnesium, fiber, and protein, all of which can help reduce blood sugar levels. They're high in soluble fiber and resistant starch, both of which aid digestion and may enhance blood sugar response after meals. A study of 12 women found that adding black beans or chickpeas to a rice meal decreased post-meal blood sugar levels much more than eating rice alone. Many additional studies have found that eating beans and lentils can help not only regulate blood sugar but also prevent the development of diabetes.