Food can be a big problem for diabetics as it can be hard to determine what foods to avoid and which to eat. It is even more of a headache for newly diagnosed diabetics as understanding the disease and learning all the dos and don’ts takes time before acclimatizing oneself to the new change in diet.
If your blood sugar races up and down throughout the day, small snacks may be the answer to keep it stable. Regular small snacks can also increase the metabolism, leading to weight loss and improved insulin sensitivity in type 2 diabetics.
Here are 7 snack ideas that are healthy and recommended for diabetics.
#1 – Raw Almond
Raw almonds are high in protein and fiber, allowing you to feel full quickly and curb your food cravings. People with high cholesterol can benefit from eating this nut thanks to the truckload of good fats, the kinds that lower the bad cholesterol all the while boosting the good cholesterol. Other nuts like cashews are brimming with the same health benefits as well.
#2 – Jicama
Also known as Mexican turnip, Jicama is a root vegetable that can be eaten raw or cooked. Low in calories and carbohydrates, this plant root is one of the most versatile veggies. In salads or stir-fried, as French Fries or chips, Jicama is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.
#3 – Beans
Beans provide a hefty dose of protein and fiber to your diet, keeping your appetite satisfy all throughout the day. Try swapping meat with beans in your recipes to reap the benefits of these super healthy and affordable plant-based proteins.
#4 – Olives
I love olives. They are a healthy source of fat and helps you to feel full faster. They can be added to salads, eaten on its own, or cooked with other ingredients as a main dish.
#5 – Popcorn
Good news for popcorn lovers! Diabetics can snack on air-popped popcorn. Air-popped popcorn is fat and cholesterol free since no oil is needed. Spice it up by adding garlic powder, cayenne pepper, lime, and a handful of cilantro.
#6 – Cereal
Coupled with milk, high-fiber cereal is a healthy snack option to keep those blood sugar numbers within normal range. Choose cereals such as shredded wheat or bran flakes. For a sweet twist, add fresh fruits such as berries.
#7 – Low-fat yogurt
Yogurt is an all-star player food that is quickly establishing a permanent residence in several households. From sweet to savory, yogurt is paving its way into marinades, dips, dressings, and even pastry recipes. For instance, substitute mayonnaise in dips or dressing with Greek yogurt to cut back on the calories and achieve the same creamy and velvety texture.
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Budiaman W. 15 best snack foods for diabetes. The Daily Meal. Accessed 3/27/2017.
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