If you're diabetic and have a giant list of foods you can't eat, you might be feeling a little discouraged. But there's no need to worry, since there are still tons of choices. The best thing you can do is research. When you're thinking about what dinners to cook for the week, think about how your body will react to those foods, and update accordingly. After you eat, you should feel good, not sluggish or off.

There are so many delicious, nutrient-foods that are highly adaptable and beneficial for your health. A great example is beans and legumes. Beans are simply nutrient powerhouses. Packed with fiber and several vitamins, you can do just about anything with beans, even if you're diabetic. There's even as much protein in 1/2 cup of beans as one serving of meat--without all the saturated fat!

Along with everybody else, people with diabetes should be eating kale. Along with spinach and collard greens, kale is considered a "dark leafy green" and is therefore full of vitamins A and K. It is super filling without being high in calories. And you can sneak leafy greens just about anywhere. Mix them with salad greens, throw them in a soup, or simply sautee with other low-starch veggies for a wholesome meal.

Another great tip to follow when eating the right foods while living with diabetes is to eat with the season. Check out your local farmer's market or grocer to see what's new and what's on sale. You never know what you might find or what new foods you'll be able to try. Plus, in-season produce tastes great with each other! Summer squash and green beans; tomatoes and cucumbers; eggplant and bell peppers--all tasty, flavorful combinations that you can manipulate in a million different ways.