If you are a diabetic, you have probably heard all of the myths regarding what you can and can not eat. Diabetes is a disorder where the pancreas does not make enough insulin for the body, or it makes none at all. This causes high blood sugar levels in the body that must be managed by medication and diet, or a healthy diet alone. Diabetics do not have to be on a restrictive diabetes diets with specialized foods. They just need to eat healthy foods, but watch their intake of carbohydrates and sugar.
There are more than one type of diabetes, but the most common is Type 2 diabetes. This type usually require insulin shots to keep it controlled, but many are able to take oral medications while eating a sensible diet for blood sugar control. Diabetics are informed that they can eat up to five small meals per day to keep the levels low, and many people like to snack on the wrong foods that will cause a spike in blood sugar levels. Snack foods for diabetics can be tasty as well as good for the body:
1. Tuna
Albacore tuna is a very healthy diabetic snack that has many benefits. It is a good source of omega 3 fatty acids that the body needs for maintaining good heart health. Tuna is low in fat and calories, and it contains no carbohydrates or sugar.
2. Fresh melon
Fresh fruits like honeydew melon is a treat in itself. It can be further enhanced by adding some plain yogurt. The melon is also great when sprinkled with pistachios on top of the yogurt with just a little lemon zest for a snack that is totally awesome.
3. Oats
Low sugar instant oatmeal is a treat any time of the day. This is a snack that contains 35% less sugar than regular instants, and it is a good source of fiber. berries can be added to enhance the flavor.
4. Eggs
Hard boiled eggs are not just for breakfast only. They make a wholesome evening snacks when you feel hungry. The protein content of the eggs will keep you full for a longer period of time while keeping the blood sugar levels from rising. Get the maximum benefits of boiled eggs by adding a little black pepper and salt.
5. Fresh veggies
Vegetables are snacks that can be eaten raw of steamed. They are rich in many of the nutrients that the body needs especially vitamins and minerals. Raw vegetables can be enhanced with a little lemon juice, or salt, and will not add any carbohydrates and sugars to the diet.
6. Nuts
Mix your own trail mix by adding nuts like pecans, pistachios, almonds, or other nuts, with dried fruit like raisins, some grains, and some seeds together. This sweet and salty treat is non perishable, and can be eaten at different times throughout the week. This is a very healthy option for snacks.
7. Salads
Other options for healthy snacks include a quinoa salad, and the popular sprout salad, both of which are great for diabetics. It is not necessary to exchange taste and flavor for foods that are not appealing or because you are diabetic. Enjoy snacks that are healthy as well as good for blood sugar levels by choosing smart snacks that with little carbohydrates and sugars.
