Whole Foods Choices for Diabetes Management
When managing diabetes, having the right foods on hand can make a big difference.
Whether you’re living with Type 1 diabetes (T1D) or Type 2 diabetes (T2D), making smart food choices helps keep blood sugar levels steady and overall health on track. A diabetes dietitian, certified diabetes educator, and someone living with Type 1 diabetes herself, shares four whole food finds that can be both delicious and beneficial for people with diabetes.
1. Fitness Bread: High Fiber, Low Impact on Blood Sugar
Fitness bread is a must-try for anyone with diabetes, especially for those working with a T1D or T2D dietitian to manage their diet. This bread offers 11 grams of fiber per slice and 4 grams of protein, which helps to slow down the absorption of sugars into the bloodstream. The result? A minimal impact on blood sugar levels. With the bonus of great taste, fitness bread is an excellent choice for sandwiches or toast, providing a filling option without spiking blood sugar.
2. Parmesan Everything Crisps: Low Carb, High Protein Snack
When you’re looking for a snack, it’s essential to find options that are both tasty and diabetes-friendly. Parmesan crisps are a perfect fit. With 13 grams of protein per serving and just 2 grams of carbs, they are a great snack that won't cause blood sugar spikes. These crisps are also versatile — they can be enjoyed as a salad topper, a snack on their own, or even used as a substitute for chips. The high protein content makes them a great choice for people with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, especially if you’re following the advice of a T1D dietitian or T2D dietitian.
3. Diced Tomatoes: Convenient and Low in Carbs
Diced tomatoes are another great find for people living with diabetes. With less than 5 grams of carbs per serving, they offer a low-impact option for anyone managing their blood sugar levels. They’re also incredibly versatile — perfect for soups, stews, sauces, or even as a base for many dishes. As a diabetes dietitian would recommend, having these on hand makes it easy to prepare a variety of meals that are both delicious and diabetes-friendly. They are a great choice for both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.
4. Pre-Packaged Mango Bites: A Sweet and Potassium-Packed Snack
Looking for a pre-packaged snack that can provide a healthy dose of fruit and potassium? Pre-packaged mango bites are a fantastic choice. With just 34 grams of carbs for the entire serving, they make a great snack option for between meals or after a workout. Mangoes are not only delicious but also provide a source of potassium, which is essential for heart and muscle function. This is an especially great option for those with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes who may need a quick snack to fuel up after physical activity, as suggested by a diabetes educator.
Final Thoughts
When managing Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, it’s important to have a variety of whole foods that are both nutritious and blood sugar-friendly. Fitness bread, Parmesan crisps, diced tomatoes, and mango bites are just a few of the many options that diabetes dietitians and diabetes educators recommend to help make diabetes management easier. Whether you're working with a T1D dietitians, these simple, whole foods can support your health while satisfying your taste buds.
Stay tuned for more helpful tips from a certified diabetes educator who understands firsthand what it's like to live with Type 1 diabetes.
