What Are The Best Immune-Boosting Foods for Diabetes?

While the COVID-19 cases continue to increase in various parts of the world, it becomes necessary to take measures to boost your immune system, specifically when you have diabetes. People with diabetes or any other chronic conditions are at a higher risk of getting infected with the novel coronavirus and developing serious complications. It's high time you should consider health as a priority and not a luxury. 

There are various strategies for strengthening the immune system. In this article, we're going to discuss some of the best foods that you should include in your diet if you are having diabetes. 

Immune-Boosting Foods for Diabetes

Following are the best immune-boosting foods for diabetes. Please include them in your diet for a plethora of health benefits.

• Carrots: Vitamin A can reinforce the immune system through a number of cellular processes, and one incredible source of this vitamin is carrots. Carrots have beta-carotene, which is a rich source of vitamin A, which is the main reason why the phytonutrient got its name. Moreover, carrots have a low glycemic index, meaning that they are far-fetched to cause a blood sugar spike. They’re important for good vision and significant consideration for people with diabetes. Over time, diabetes can lead to poor vision and increases your risk for two leading causes of permanent blindness - Cataracts and Glaucoma. 
• Chickpeas: Protein is significant for boosting the immune system as it works with essential immune-boosting nutrients such as vitamins A, D, and E, as well as iron, zinc, and selenium. Chickpeas are an amazing source of plant-based protein and are also considered to be a powerhouse of zinc. White blood cells require an adequate amount of zinc to function. Also, zinc promotes heart health and thus is beneficial for people with diabetes as high blood sugar can adversely impact your heart over time. 
• Brazil Nuts: Selenium is an essential mineral for people with type-2 diabetes as it aids thyroid health. Diabetes and thyroid disorders are both endocrine issues, and so people who deal with thyroid disorders may have a tough time with blood glucose control. Selenium in brazil nuts plays a crucial role in regulating thyroid hormones. Research has revealed that people with diabetes are at higher risk for thyroid disorders than others, and so it's helpful to keep your thyroid function well with healthy foods. 
• Bell Peppers: Bell peppers are an incredible source of vitamin C. It boosts the immune system and eradicates free radicals from the body, which can cause damage to cells. You can consume it in food or supplements. Studies have revealed that vitamin C supplements improve blood sugar levels in people with type-2 diabetes and manage blood pressure levels as well. As bell peppers are non-starchy vegetables, they have a negligible effect on glucose levels. Bell peppers also improve skin health and wound healing. Research suggests that diabetes can affect the skin, and often, skin issues show up as the initial sign of diabetes. 
• Walnuts: Walnuts are an abundant source of vitamin E and healthy fats. Vitamin E is a potent nutrient that helps foster the immune system. Also, it has been seen that vitamin E in walnuts can help keep your glycemic index in control in people with diabetes. Walnuts are also a splendid source of omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation. Walnuts don’t contain much carbohydrate content and so don't have a significant effect on glucose levels. If you are overweight or obese and wish to lose weight, consuming walnuts can be advantageous for you because walnuts tend to activate a part of the brain involved with appetite and impulse control. 
• Lentils: Lentils are a healthy alternative for fiber and zinc. Lentils are loaded with fiber, which improves satiety. Lentils are present in a variety of colors, including red, green, yellow, brown, black, etc. The fiber works as a healthy gut bacteria, which helps strengthen the immune system. 
• Onion and Garlic: Onions and garlic not only make your meals more flavorsome but also are rich sources of antioxidants that help combat bacteria and viruses. Garlic also incorporates unique sulphuric compounds that promote the function of the body's natural detoxification systems. 
• Beans: Beans have numerous health benefits for people living with diabetes. They have high amounts of fiber, which offers a tremendous source of energy without causing a spike in blood sugar levels. Beans are also a potent source of zinc, which is a vital mineral that you should eat regularly as the human body does not accumulate it. Zinc affects many aspects of the immune system and has also been shown to enhance glycemic control in people living with diabetes. You can know more generic medicine in USA .