Is Broccoli Good for Diabetes? Can Diabetics Eat Broccoli?

Broccoli: Nutritional Profile

Broccoli is a greenish veggie with an exceptional nutritional profile. Broccoli is a rich source of Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin K, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and monounsaturated fatty acids. It also contains various nutrients such as niacin, riboflavin, folate, pantothenic acid, vitamin A, vitamin B6, and amino acids.

100 grams of broccoli contains the following nutrients:

Advantages of Broccoli For Diabetes

• Broccoli has sulforaphane which is an antioxidant that helps regulate blood sugar levels in people with diabetes by limiting the production of glucose in the liver. Broccoli helps reduce fasting blood sugar levels in obese people with diabetes.
• Broccoli has a very low glycemic index, and the carbohydrates in broccoli are very limited, so the veggie is light and has very little impact on increasing blood sugar levels.
• The fiber content in broccoli helps to regulate blood sugar levels and prevent spikes in blood sugar levels.
• Broccoli is a powerhouse of antioxidants that reduce oxidative stress in the pancreas and also reduce insulin resistance.

Ways To Consume Broccoli For Diabetes

• Raw As A Salad:

Broccoli can be mixed with other veggies such as carrots, bell peppers to prepare a refreshing salad with or without olive oil.

• Baked Broccoli:

Clubbed with cheese to an easy baked delight.

• Seasoned Broccoli:

Broccoli, onions, and peppers in a delicious seasoning with apricot sprinkles

• Steamed Broccoli:

Nutrients are preserved in steaming, and steamed broccoli can be consumed with meals.

Choosing the right vegetables can make a big difference in diabetes management. Dive into our guide on diabetes-friendly vegetables, their benefits, and the science behind how they help control blood sugar.

Best Time To Consume Broccoli For Diabetes

You can eat broccoli anytime during the day. However, the best time would be to consume it in breakfast or lunch as it gives your intestines enough time to act on the fiber content in broccoli.

Risks of Over Consuming Broccoli For Diabetes

• Overconsumption of broccoli can lead to hyperthyroidism which could cause weight gain, hair fall, fatigue, or bloated face.
• Overconsumption could also lead to gastrointestinal disturbances such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, flatulence, etc.

Other Health Benefits of Broccoli For Diabetes

• Broccoli, due to its antioxidant properties, helps prevent and fight cancer such as colon, lung, prostate, pancreatic, etc.
• Help reduce cholesterol levels and improve heart health.
• Improves eyesight due to the presence of Vitamin A.
• It acts as an immunity booster.