Thanks to the editors in www.reinventingaging.org
Whole Grain Toast with Peanut
Rich in healthy monounsaturated fats and protein, this combination makes a nutritious addition to meals and snacks for people with diabetes. Peanut butter’s low carbohydrate content keeps blood sugar under control, while its healthy fats satisfy the appetite for several hours. Choose a brand of peanut butter with little to no added sugar; and be sure to measure out each serving to keep calories in check.
Shrimp
Most diabetics have to give up or at least drastically reduce some of their favorite foods. However, shrimp is packed with protein, very little fat and virtually no carbohydrates. Not to mention it’s delicious! Shrimp is simply perfect for the diabetic to eat. Thank you Mother Nature!
hypoglycemia—when your blood sugar drops dangerouslylow.
Snacks serve an important role in a diabetic’s diet. They help keep your blood sugar steady between meals and before exercising. Snacks also help treat episodes of
Sliced Avocado with Lime
The American Diabetes Association recommends avocado for diabetics as they have been shown to lower LDL cholesterol levels without reducing beneficial HDL cholesterol (Monounsaturated Fatty Acids and Risk of Cardiovascular Disease). Monounsaturated fats improve heart health — an especially important benefit for diabetics. Add a few thin slices of avocado to your sandwiches in place of mayonnaise, or mash a ripe avocado with cilantro, lime juice, and diced tomato for a delicious guacamole dip.
Fruits (Whole)
Fruits are tasty and portable and provide a ton of health benefits. Fruits like strawberries, apples, and peaches are ideal for diabetics because they have a low glycemic index and come packed with a variety of important nutrients. Cherries, pears, and grapefruit are other good options – even plums and oranges.
Beans
Beans are considered a diabetes super food, and The American Diabetes Association recommends that diabetics consume beans several times a week. Why not try mashing up some black or pinto beans with salsa and making a delicious bean dip. You can have it with baked tortilla chips or corn tortillas.
Popcorn
That’s right, popcorn. It’s a whole-grain snack that is rich in fiber, magnesium, and other nutrients. Note, however, that there is a difference between air-popped popcorn and the kind you get at the movies, which is usually swimming in butter and loaded with salt. For flavoring, why not try some garlic or chili powder instead
Cheese & Crackers
String cheese (low fat) is a source of protein and fits in well with a healthy diabetes diet. The pre-packaged sticks also fit nicely into a purse and aid portion control. For a nutrition boost, nibble on single servings of the cheese with some whole-grain crackers (1 stick to 5 crackers) and apple slices, or even baby carrots
Steve Ramsey, PHD- Public Heath- Calgary- Alberta.