For those managing diabetes, one of the biggest decisions is whether to use an insulin pump or multiple daily injections (MDI) to control blood sugar levels.

The choice can seem daunting, as both options have their own set of benefits and challenges. For anyone living with diabetes, especially those working with a diabetes dietitian or Diabetes Educator, understanding the pros and cons of each method is crucial to making the right decision for their lifestyle.

The Insulin Pump: A Convenient Tool for Blood Sugar Control

Insulin pumps are often seen as a game-changer when it comes to diabetes management. The ability to continuously administer insulin and make quick adjustments based on blood sugar levels has proven to be effective for many people with both Type 1 diabetes and Type 2 diabetes. For those living with Type 1 diabetes (T1D), an insulin pump can help mimic the natural insulin release of the pancreas, making it easier to maintain stable blood sugar levels. With advanced...

When managing diabetes, it’s important to make choices that help maintain stable blood sugar levels.

While not the most nutritious option, Graham crackers can be a helpful snack in certain situations, particularly when paired with protein or fat. They are best used as a low blood sugar snack or a supplement to a more balanced snack, but they shouldn’t be relied upon as your primary go-to food.

Low-Blood-Sugar Snack Option

Graham crackers are a carbohydrate-based snack, which means they can raise blood sugar levels. However, they do so more gradually compared to sugary drinks or snacks, which is why they can be useful in helping to raise blood sugar when it's low. If you experience a dip in blood sugar, a small serving of Graham crackers can provide a gentle and controlled rise in glucose levels, especially when paired with something that slows down digestion, such as a protein or fat.

Pairing with Protein or Fat

To make Graham crackers a more balanced snack, it’s important to...

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 ...

Traveling with diabetes can be a challenge, especially when flying.

For those managing Type 1 diabetes (T1D) or Type 2 diabetes (T2D), unexpected blood sugar dips can be a real concern. You know it can be unsettling if you’ve ever been blindsided by low blood sugar while cruising at 35,000 feet. But with the right preparation, you can avoid this diabetes travel nightmare and enjoy your trip with peace of mind. A diabetes dietitian or diabetes educator can provide tips to make traveling with diabetes much easier.

Here are three essential tips to prevent low blood sugar while flying:

1. Take a Deep Breath and Stay Calm

When low blood sugar hits, the first thing you should do is take a deep breath. Staying calm will help clear your mind and allow you to make better decisions. Panicking can lead to poor choices, and that’s the last thing you want when managing your blood sugar levels. A diabetes dietitian or a Type 1 diabetes dietitian often emphasizes the importance of staying...

 Pizza can be tricky for anyone living with diabetes.

Whether managing Type 1 diabetes (T1D) or Type 2 diabetes (T2D), finding a pizza option that won’t spike blood sugar can be challenging. However, with the right choices, a meal at Pizza Hut can fit into a balanced diet, even for those managing diabetes.

As a registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator, it’s important to understand the role of carbs, fats, and proteins in blood sugar control. Below is a breakdown of some pizza options that work well for individuals with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes when ordering from Pizza Hut.

1. Hawaiian Chicken Pizza

The Hawaiian Chicken pizza is a solid option for those looking for a balanced meal. A large slice of this pizza contains around 33 grams of net carbs, 15 grams of protein, and 8 grams of fat. With a moderate carb load and decent protein content, this choice helps avoid a rapid blood sugar spike, making it a great option for individuals managing Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes.

Managing diabetes, whether it’s Type 1 (T1D) or Type 2 (T2D), can often make eating out feel tricky.

A registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator can help break down how to choose better meal options, especially when dining at places like Panda Express. With its wide range of menu items, it’s important to make mindful choices that won’t drastically impact blood sugar levels. Here are some go-to options for those living with diabetes, recommended by a registered dietitian with experience in both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.

1. Teriyaki Chicken: A Protein-Packed, Low-Carb Option

For anyone looking for a balanced meal, the teriyaki chicken is one of the best options on the Panda Express menu. It's easy to see that this dish offers over 40 grams of protein and only 14 grams of carbohydrates. The 13 grams of fat make it a moderate choice that won’t spike blood sugar too quickly. Protein is important for maintaining muscle mass and regulating blood sugar and making this dish...

Managing diabetes, whether it’s Type 1 or Type 2, can often feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to choosing foods that won’t spike blood sugar levels. For individuals living with diabetes, protein can impact blood sugar, particularly when consumed in large amounts or without carbs. However, not all protein sources have the same effect. Some proteins are less likely to cause blood sugar spikes, making them great choices for people with diabetes.

Here are three protein sources that are less likely to impact blood sugar:

1. Fish – Safe Catch Tuna

Fish is an excellent option for individuals with diabetes, and Safe Catch Tuna is a top recommendation from a diabetes educator. This brand offers 26 grams of protein per serving with minimal fat, making it both nutritious and portable. What sets Safe Catch apart is its commitment to testing every fish for mercury and other heavy metals—something no other company does. For those managing diabetes, avoiding the accumulation of harm...

Mastering meal breakdowns is essential for maintaining blood sugar balance, and a certified diabetes educator offers valuable tips on effectively managing meals for optimal results. Understanding how to manage what you eat properly is one of the most important aspects of blood sugar control, especially for people with diabetes.

Breaking Down Meals: Key Considerations

The first step in controlling blood sugar is identifying the carbohydrate sources in a meal. Carbohydrates are the primary contributors to blood sugar spikes, so they should be dosed first when managing meals. In some cuisines, like traditional Azorean cooking, carbs can be hidden in unexpected places. Fries and white rice are obvious sources of carbohydrates, but sauces and marinades may contain hidden sugars that affect blood sugar levels. It's important to recognize that not all carbs are as obvious as they might seem, and even small amounts in dressings or sauces can add up to impact your blood sugar control.

F...

When it comes to fast food, making the right choices can be challenging, especially for those managing Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. A registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator understands that life sometimes throws curveballs, and you may find yourself at a place like Sonic needing to pick a meal that keeps blood sugar levels in check. Here are a few recommended options from a T1D dietitian to help navigate the menu wisely.

1. Crispy Tenders – A Balanced Snack or Meal Base

One of the better choices on the Sonic menu is the three-piece crispy tenders. This option provides 21 grams of protein, 16 grams of carbs, and only 12 grams of fat, making it a solid protein boost. It can serve as a high-protein snack or as a small meal addition without significantly spiking blood sugar.

2. Philly Cheesesteak – A High-Protein Option with Some Adjustments

The Philly cheesesteak sandwich is another choice, offering 46 grams of protein and 39 grams of fat. However, due to the high-f...

If you have diabetes, here’s something you may not have considered: You’re probably not eating enough protein.

Protein plays a major role in the body. It helps build muscle, increases bone density, and keeps you feeling full. But if you’re managing Type 1 diabetes (T1D) or Type 2 diabetes (T2D), protein has an even bigger benefit—it helps stabilize blood sugar after meals. A diabetes dietitian tells you that if your meals don’t include at least 25-30 grams of protein, you may want to rethink what’s on your plate. Making this small change can have a huge impact on your blood sugar levels and overall diabetes management.

How Protein Helps with Blood Sugar Stability

When you eat carbohydrates alone, your blood sugar spikes quickly. But when you add protein to your meals, it slows down digestion, reducing sharp blood sugar rises. This is why a T1D dietitian or T2D dietitian often recommends pairing carbs with protein to keep glucose levels stable.

A Type 1 diabetes dietitian or...