Looking for healthy foods that keep blood sugar steady? These delicious diabetes-friendly snacks are just what you need!
One of the keys to managing diabetes is eating foods that keep blood sugar steady. When you have Type 2 diabetes, your body is unable to produce enough insulin to keep your blood sugar stable. Finding foods that release energy at a slow, even pace can help you maintain healthy blood sugar levels throughout the day. Snacks that combine complex, low-glycemic carbohydrates, fiber, and protein can help stave off hypoglycemia and keep your blood sugar steady between meals. Fortunately, there are many tasty snacks and foods that can help you manage your blood sugar levels in a delicious way. Here are some easy, smart combinations of foods that keep blood sugar steady while satisfying your cravings in a healthy manner.
Nuts and seeds
Nuts and seeds are some of the best snack foods for keeping blood sugar steady. Walnuts, peanuts, almonds, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds are just a few examples of these healthy snacks. They pack a potent blend of protein, healthy (unsaturated) fats, and fiber that provides a terrific energy boost without causing unhealthy sugar spikes. Nuts are high in calories, though, so restrict portions to just two ounces at a time. To keep your blood sugar steady when exercising, grab a tablespoon of nuts with a medium banana before your work out.
Raw vegetables
One of the challenges of finding healthy snacks is figuring out how to maintain sugar level for diabetes without adding extra calories that pack on weight. Raw vegetables are the perfect solution: they are low in calories, high in fiber, and rich with complex carbs that help keep blood sugar levels stable. Keep sliced celery sticks, carrots, sweet bell peppers, and broccoli in the fridge so you can reach for them instead of chips. Pair your veggies with hummus or a tablespoon of peanut butter to add protein to the mix.
Hummus
Hummus, a Middle Eastern dip of chickpeas, olive oil, and tahini, seems custom-designed for people with diabetes. Chickpeas are rich in protein and fiber, making them a great food for maintaining steady blood sugar levels. Tahini (which is made from ground sesame seeds) and olive oil contain healthy fats that further help to slow the absorption of sugars. All those benefits and it is delicious, too! Eating 1/3 cup of hummus with a cup of fresh raw veggies is a great way to help curb hunger and keep blood sugar levels from spiking.
Fresh fruit and cheese
When you have diabetes, you should always keep snacks for low blood sugar on hand. Medications, exercise, or changes to your insulin can cause hypoglycemia and you may need a healthy way to raise your blood sugar. When you are at home, snacks of fresh fruit and cheese, such as blueberries and cottage cheese, or apple slices and low-fat cheddar cheese, can get your blood sugar back on a healthy level without causing dangerous spikes or crashes later on. For on-the-go snacking, a fresh apple or pear and low-fat string cheese can be conveniently carried in a purse, school bag, or sports tote to provide a healthy way to stabilize blood sugar levels anytime you need it.
For more diabetes snack ideas, delicious recipes using foods that keep blood sugar levels steady, exercises for diabetics and more, visit www.BetterHealthKare.com.