If you have diabetes, including gestational diabetes, the foods you eat play a significant role in managing your blood sugar. Choosing snacks that provide protein and healthy fats but are low in carbohydrates is important to keep you full and prevent your blood sugar from spiking. Here are ten healthy snacks for diabetics.
1. Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds like almonds, walnuts, peanuts, chia seeds, and flax seeds are all great snack choices. Not only do nuts and seeds contain a wide variety of vitamins and minerals, but they are also an excellent source of protein, healthy fats, and fiber, making them an ideal snack for people with diabetes.
2. Vegetables With Hummus
Colorful, raw vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, and carrots dipped in hummus make a healthy, satisfying, filling snack for diabetics. This snack provides essential nutrients, minerals, protein, fiber, and healthy fat. Hummus has even been shown to improve blood sugar control in people with diabetes.
3. Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is high in protein and packed with health benefits for people with diabetes. Greek yogurt can be eaten on its own or enhanced with a handful of berries or walnuts to make it more satisfying and add additional flavor.
4. Cheese and Whole Grain Crackers
Whole grain crackers with cheese slices are a balanced snack that is great for diabetics. It is important to choose a cheese high in protein like parmesan, swiss, mozzarella, or Colby, and a cracker that is low in carbohydrates to prevent sugar spikes and keep you full until your next meal.
5. Hard-Boiled Eggs
Eggs are not only an excellent source of protein, but they are a convenient and portable snack option for people with diabetes. Hard-boiled eggs are easy to meal prep and keep in the fridge for a grab-and-go snack solution.
6. Avocado Slices on Whole Grain Toast
Avocado is an excellent source of healthy fats and fiber, which are great for diabetics to prevent blood sugar spikes. Spread mashed avocado on a slice of whole-grain toast to make a filling and tasty snack.
7. Sugar-Free Jello
If you want something sweet, sugar-free Jello is a great low-calorie snack option for diabetics. To really add to the experience, consider adding some sugar-free whipped cream on top!
8. Apples with Nut Butter
Apples paired with nut butter is a savory and satisfying snack for diabetic people. Apple slices are rich in antioxidants and fiber. As a bonus, the antioxidants found in apples have been shown to reduce the risk of certain cancers and heart disease. Adding a tablespoon of your favorite nut butter adds protein, fiber, and flavor.
9. Roasted Chickpeas
If you’re a diabetic looking for a crunchy snack, consider roasted chickpeas instead of a high-carbohydrate snack like potato chips. Roasted chickpeas are high in protein and fiber and contain healthy fats when roasted with olive oil. Roasted chickpeas are also versatile because they can be flavored using a ranch or Italian seasoning packet and are an easy grab-and-go alternative to chips or pretzels. You could also consider adding roasted chickpeas on top of a salad to replace croutons.
10. Edamame
Edamame is a nutritious snack loaded with nutrients that are perfect for people with diabetes. Edamame is low in carbohydrates and contains protein and fats to keep you full and satisfied without raising your blood sugar.
Discover More Great Snacks for Diabetics
If you have diabetes and have questions about what snacks would be best for you and your blood sugar, schedule an appointment with an internal medicine specialist today!
