4 Costco Finds for Blood Sugar Balance
Finding the right foods can be a game-changer when managing diabetes
Whether you're a high school student with newly diagnosed Type 1 diabetes or an adult with Type 2 diabetes, knowing what to grab at the grocery store is key to making meal planning easy and delicious. A registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator who also lives with diabetes spends a lot of time thinking about this.
That's why a trip to Costco is a perfect opportunity to stock up on healthy, blood sugar-friendly staples. Here are four absolute favorite finds, ideal for anyone looking to eat well and feel great.
1. Safe Catch Tuna
This isn’t just any can of tuna. For those focused on protein and minimal carbs, Safe Catch is a lifesaver. Each can is packed with a whopping 43 grams of protein and has basically zero carbs and fat. What really sets it apart, though, is its commitment to safety. Every single fish is individually tested for mercury, a heavy metal that no one wants in their body, but is especially important to avoid for those with diabetes. It’s an easy, reliable option that tastes good and supports health goals. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a fast snack to keep blood sugar steady.
2. Real Good Foods Chicken Strips
For quick meals that don’t derail blood sugar, these chicken strips are an excellent choice. Each serving delivers 21 grams of protein, just 3 grams of net carbs, and only 5 grams of fat, making them a great option for T1D meal planning. They cook beautifully in the air fryer and are perfect for easy dinners or balanced meal prep.
3. Mushrooms
Mushrooms might not seem exciting, but they’re a nutritional powerhouse for people with diabetes. They’re low in carbs, high in fiber, and a great source of vitamin D, which is often low in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes populations. Mushrooms can be added to breakfast eggs, stir-fries, soups, or salads. They bring rich flavor and nutrients without any blood sugar spike.
4. PB Fit Peanut Butter Powder
Peanut butter is delicious, but the fat content can sometimes lead to delayed blood sugar spikes, especially in T1D. PBfit Powdered Peanut Butter offers a lighter option, with 7 grams of protein, 4 grams of net carbs, and less fat. It’s perfect for smoothies, oats, or even baking. This smart swap gives all the flavor with a better blood sugar impact.
Navigating the grocery store with Type 1 diabetes or Type 2 diabetes doesn't have to be a chore. With the right knowledge and a few go-to products, you can make choices that support health and taste great.
Meal planning with T1D or T2D doesn’t have to be complicated, thanks to an easy-to-follow insulin-to-carb ratio guide that makes balanced eating and insulin dosing more straightforward.
Struggling to find breakfast ideas that won’t spike your blood sugar? This free guide shares 7 easy, dietitian-approved meals to start your day steady.
Ask the Dietitian
Q: Why is it important to see a dietitian who specializes in diabetes?
A diabetes dietitian is an expert in how food, blood sugar, and medication work together. They have specific training in Type 1 diabetes and Type 2 diabetes management, insulin-to-carb ratios, and how to create a meal plan that fits a person's life, not just a generic diet. Learn more about working with a specialized diabetes dietitian and discover how personalized nutrition can help you thrive. From T1D meal planning to expert advice on managing Type 2 diabetes, a dietitian is there to help people live a full, healthy life.
Q: Can a dietitian help with T1D meal planning?
Absolutely! T1D meal planning is one of the key services offered. A dietitian will work together with a client to build a plan that's flexible and easy to follow. This includes learning how to count carbs, understanding how different foods affect individuals, and adjusting insulin levels accordingly. The goal is to empower people to make confident food choices without feeling like they’re on a restrictive diet.
