20 Essential Foods for a Healthy Diabetic Diet

14. Garlic

The constituents responsible for garlic's pungent aroma can fight oxidative stress, hypertension, and diabetes. Hundreds of compounds including allicin, allyl propyl disulfide,  S-allyl cysteine sulfoxide, and quercetin exhibit strong anti-inflammatory properties that can help prevent and treat a wide range of diabetes-related conditions. They can raise blood insulin levels by preventing the liver's inactivation of insulin, making more insulin available in the body. Scientists have discovered that moderate amounts of raw, cooked, or aged garlic or supplements can help normalize blood glucose levels and reduce the impact of some diabetes complications. Garlic components also facilitate blood flow and fight infection. However, this food can cause adverse effects in high amounts.