Diabetes is a health condition that affects the body’s ability to produce or use insulin effectively, leading to abnormally high levels of glucose in the blood.
People living with diabetes need to watch their diet closely and make sure they don’t consume too many carbs or sugars in their meals. Snacking can be tricky for diabetics as most snacks available in the market are loaded with sugars and carbs. However, it is essential to include snacks in your diet to avoid extreme hunger pangs that can lead to overeating at meals.
Here are some healthy snack options for diabetics that are low in carbs, sugars, and calories:.
1. Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds are rich in healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making them a satisfying and healthy snack option for diabetics. Some of the best nuts for diabetics include almonds, walnuts, macadamia nuts, hazelnuts, and pecans.
You can enjoy them raw, roasted, or as nut butter with apple slices, celery sticks, or a handful of berries. Pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, and chia seeds are also excellent sources of healthy fats and protein, which can be added to salads, yogurt, or smoothies.
2. Vegetables and Hummus
Vegetables are low in calories, carbs, and sugars, making them an excellent snack option for diabetics. You can enjoy them raw, steamed, or roasted with a low-carb dip like hummus.
Hummus is made from chickpeas, which are a great source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. You can also make hummus with roasted red pepper, avocado, or beetroot for some variation.
3. Greek Yogurt with Berries
Greek yogurt is high in protein and low in carbs, making it an ideal snack option for diabetics. You can add some fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for some natural sweetness and antioxidants.
Berries are also low in calories and carbs, making them an excellent snack option for diabetics.
4. Boiled Eggs
Eggs are a great source of protein and healthy fats, making them an ideal snack option for diabetics. You can boil a couple of eggs and enjoy them with some salt and pepper or add them to salads, sandwiches, or wraps.
Eggs are also very filling, which can prevent overeating and promote satiety.
5. Cheese and Crackers
Cheese is rich in protein and healthy fats, making it an excellent snack option for diabetics. You can enjoy cheese with some low-carb crackers like rice cakes, whole-grain crackers, or vegetables like cucumber and celery.
6. Avocado Toast
Avocados are rich in healthy fats and fiber, making them an excellent snack option for diabetics. You can mash some avocado on a slice of low-carb bread or toast and sprinkle some salt, pepper, or herbs for some added flavor.
7. Smoothies
Smoothies are a great way to get your daily dose of fruits and vegetables. You can use low-carb fruits like berries, avocado, or cucumber and add some spinach, kale, or celery for some green goodness.
You can also add some protein powder or Greek yogurt for some added protein.
8. Edamame
Edamame is a great source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it an excellent snack option for diabetics. You can boil or steam some edamame and add some salt or spices for some added flavor.
9. Tuna Salad
Tuna is an excellent source of protein and healthy fats, making it an ideal snack option for diabetics. You can mix some canned tuna with some olive oil, lemon juice, and vegetables like celery, onion, or cucumber for a tasty and healthy snack option.
10. Low-Carb Protein Bars
Protein bars are a great snack option for diabetics as they are high in protein, fiber, and healthy fats and low in carbs and sugars. You can choose low-carb protein bars that are made with natural ingredients and sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit.
It is important to remember that snacking can add up to your daily calorie intake, so it is essential to be mindful of your portion sizes and choose snacks that are low in calories, carbs, and sugars.
Always consult with your doctor or a registered dietitian before making any changes to your diet.