8 snacking options for those who have diabetes
One of the most difficult parts of suffering from diabetes is the inability to eat most things due to their sugar content. It is essential for a diabetic to stick to healthy snacks, but how many times can one munch on the same food item? Individuals have to choose snacks that contain high levels of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, helping keep blood sugar levels in control. Here are some great snack ideas for those who have diabetes:
- Hard-boiled eggs
A super healthy snack for diabetics, hard-boiled eggs provide as much as 6 gm of protein per egg, keeping blood sugar levels in control and making one feel full as well. - Yogurt with berries
Yogurt with berries makes for a great diabetic snack due to various factors. Firstly, the berries’ antioxidants lessen inflammation, preventing pancreatic damage. They are also fibrous, helping slow digestion and stabilizing blood sugar levels. Yogurt is protein-rich and helps keep the blood sugar levels under control. What’s more, the two go beautifully together, with the tartness of the yogurt balancing the sweetness of the berries. - Almonds
Almonds are a convenient, nutritious snack for diabetes patients. 28 grams of almonds provide more than 15 minerals and vitamins. They have been found to reduce insulin levels in the body and benefit heart health by promoting weight management and lessening cholesterol levels. These are chief factors for the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes. The combination of healthy fats, protein, and fiber in almonds is likely to stabilize blood sugar levels. - Veggies and hummus
Hummus is a great accompaniment to raw vegetables as the combination is an excellent source of minerals, vitamins, and fiber. It is also protein-rich. Pair it with veggies such as bell peppers, carrots, cauliflower, and broccoli. - Avocado
Snacking on avocados is a great way to manage blood sugar levels due to the monosaturated fatty acids and high fiber content in them. Avocados can be eaten plain, used as a salad topping, or as a dip. Eating tip: Since avocados are calorie-rich, stick to a serving of ¼ or ½ of an avocado. - Roasted chickpeas
Also known as garbanzo beans, chickpeas are an extremely healthy legume, packing 13 grams of fiber and 15 grams of protein in 164 grams of serving. According to research, consuming chickpeas could aid in preventing the progression of diabetes as they help manage blood sugar levels. Roast the chickpeas in olive oil and a variety of seasonings, making them a convenient, crunchy snack. - Cottage cheese
Cottage cheese is an energy powerhouse of sorts—a 112-gram serving packs only 4 grams of carbs and almost 13 grams of protein, apart from several minerals and vitamins. This food item is protein-rich and helps manage blood sugar levels. While plain cottage cheese works well, try adding it to a salad for extra fiber and nutrients. - Edamame
Edamame beans are green, unripe soybeans still encased in their pods, and make for a very convenient and nutritious snack. They contain 8 grams of fiber and 17 grams of protein in a 155-gram serving. According to studies, edamame lowers blood sugar levels and improves insulin resistance.
In some cases incorporating food changes may not be enough. Doctors may recommend a combination of lifestyle changes along with the following, such as:
INVOKANA®
This is used to manage type-2 diabetes and contains an active ingredient called canagliflozin. INVOKANA ® and other SGLT2 inhibitors help control blood sugar by causing excess sugar to exit the body in the form of urine. It is also used to manage kidney problems caused by type-2 diabetes. Follow your doctor’s advice for dosage instructions.