For individuals living with Type 1 diabetes or Type 2 diabetes, every food choice comes with a question mark: "How will this affect my blood sugar?"

Protein powder, a staple for many fitness enthusiasts, often seems like a safe bet. After all, it boasts minimal carbohydrates, sometimes as low as 2 grams per serving, while delivering a powerful protein punch. But what if a seemingly innocent protein shake sends blood glucose levels skyrocketing? This common mystery has puzzled many, and the answer might just change how you approach your supplements forever.

Many people with diabetes are puzzled when low-carb protein powder causes blood sugar spikes. A diabetes dietitian knows why, and so should you.

Mystery Unraveled with a Personal Anecdote and a Huge Lesson

Consider a common scenario: a 15-year-old, newly diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, finishes a workout. Their blood sugar is a stable 92 mg/dL. They mix up a protein shake, confidently checking the label, only a couple of grams of...

For anyone living with diabetes, whether it's Type 1 diabetes or Type 2 diabetes, Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) have been revolutionary

These incredible devices eliminate the constant need for finger pricks, offering real-time insights by reading blood sugar levels every five minutes. They empower individuals to spot trends, understand how different foods and activities impact their glucose, and generally feel more in control. It's truly a fantastic tool for modern blood sugar management.

However, a crucial piece of information often gets missed when people first start using a CGM – a detail that can make all the difference in keeping blood sugars smoothly in range and avoiding frustrating highs and lows. This vital insight is something a dedicated diabetes dietitian or Diabetes Educator emphasizes: there's typically a 15-minute delay between what your CGM displays and what your actual blood sugar is at that exact moment.

Why the 15-Minute Delay Matters

To understand this de...

When a craving for fast food hits, especially on a long road trip or during a busy day, navigating the menu to make blood sugar-friendly choices can feel like a real challenge for anyone living with diabetes

Many worry about hidden sugars, excessive carbs, and fats that can send blood glucose levels soaring. However, with the right knowledge, even places like Arby's can offer viable options.

A seasoned diabetes dietitian, someone who understands the daily realities of both Type 1 diabetes and Type 2 diabetes from professional experience and having lived with Type 1 diabetes for over 20 years, shares essential insights for making the most nutritious and blood sugar-friendly choices at Arby's. This guide, straight from a trusted Diabetes Educator, will help you make informed decisions when you find yourself in a pinch at the famous roast beef spot.

1. The Half Pound Roast Beef Sandwich, A Protein Powerhouse

For those seeking a substantial meal with a focus on protein, the Half Pou...

You've probably heard a lot about collagen lately

People everywhere are talking about taking it to boost their bone health, improve their skin's glow, strengthen their hair, or even make their nails less brittle. And, as you might know, collagen is a type of protein. But if you're living with diabetes, a big question might pop into your mind “Can collagen actually help with blood sugar management, and is it truly worth adding to your routine?”

This is a question often addressed by a diabetes dietitian and a Diabetes Educator, professionals dedicated to guiding individuals with Type 1 diabetes and Type 2 diabetes through the complexities of nutrition and health. Let's dive into what the science says, straight from the perspective of an expert who has personally navigated Type 1 diabetes for nearly 25 years.

Collagen's Potential Benefits for Diabetes Management

When a Type 1 diabetes dietitian or Type 2 diabetes dietitian evaluates supplements, they look for solid scientific backi...

Navigating the world of fast food when managing diabetes can often feel like a tightrope walk.

The convenience is undeniable, but the fear of blood sugar spikes and hidden carbs can make dining out daunting. However, for those living with Type 1 diabetes or Type 2 diabetes, a well-informed choice can make all the difference. According to a seasoned diabetes dietitian, someone who has not only dedicated their career to empowering individuals with diabetes but also personally managed Type 1 diabetes for nearly 25 years, Jimmy John's stands out as a surprisingly accommodating option.

This guide provides top recommendations from a trusted Diabetes Educator, offering practical tips to help individuals make smart choices when they're in a pinch at this popular sandwich shop.

1. The Bootlegger

For many, including this diabetes dietitian, the Bootlegger has been a long-standing personal favorite, and it’s an excellent choice for diabetes management. This sandwich offers a substantial nu...

Navigating grocery aisles when managing diabetes, whether it's Type 1 diabetes or Type 2 diabetes, can sometimes feel like a treasure hunt.

With so many options available, it's easy to feel overwhelmed trying to pick foods that support stable blood sugars while also fitting into a busy life. This is precisely where the expertise of a diabetes dietitian can make a huge difference. They offer practical, real-world advice that goes beyond basic food rules, helping individuals find convenient and affordable options that truly support their health goals.

The search for easy, diabetes-friendly foods at everyday stores like Walmart is a familiar journey. This combination of professional knowledge and personal experience allows for a unique perspective on what truly works in day-to-day life.

Here are four specific Walmart finds that a dedicated diabetes dietitian often recommends, highlighting why these simple choices can be smart additions to anyone's pantry or fridge.

1. Part-Skim Shre...

Navigating the grocery store with diabetes can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be

Whether someone is living with Type 1 diabetes (T1D) or Type 2 diabetes (T2D), having a plan and knowing what foods to look for can make managing blood sugars much easier. That’s where the expertise of a diabetes dietitian and Certified Diabetes Educator comes in, offering practical, realistic, and flavorful guidance.

Here’s a breakdown, aisle by aisle, of grocery staples a T1D or T2D dietitian might grab on a weekly shopping trip to support better blood sugar control, make meal prep easier, and keep meals enjoyable.

1. Sweet Potatoes – A Complex Carb Win

Sweet potatoes are a staple in any dietitian's cart for individuals with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. Why?

• They’re high in fiber, which helps slow the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream.
• They’re rich in potassium and vitamin A.
• They’re incredibly versatile; tossed in the air fryer, they make a quick and delicious side dish.
...

Why Your Workouts Might Be Spiking Your Blood Sugar and How to Fix It

If you’ve ever checked your blood sugar after a workout and thought “Wait… why did it go UP?” - you’re not alone. It feels backwards, right? Exercise is supposed to help blood sugar.

Here’s the deal: certain types of workouts can temporarily raise your numbers.

Why it happens:

When you do intense exercise (like sprints, heavy lifting, or a hard spin class), your body releases stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. Those hormones tell your liver to dump glucose into your bloodstream to give you quick energy.

It’s your body’s “fight or flight” fuel system.

The good news?

This spike is usually temporary - and over time, regular exercise still improves insulin sensitivity and overall blood sugar control.

How to keep spikes in check:

1. Try a warm-up. Easing into exercise can reduce the stress response.
2. Mix it up. Combine strength or HIIT days with steady-state cardio or walking days.
3. Time your meal...

What I Wish I Knew About Snacks and Blood Sugar

When I was first learning how to manage my blood sugar, snacks were… tricky. I thought “healthy” meant granola bars, fruit smoothies, or low-fat crackers. But every time I grabbed one of those, my blood sugar would shoot up, then crash.

Here’s what I wish I knew back then:

1. Snacks aren’t just about calories - they’re about balance. A snack with only carbs (like crackers or fruit) will usually spike you. Pairing it with protein or fat slows things down. Example: Apple slices with peanut butter, or Greek yogurt with berries.
2. Timing matters. If you’re snacking right after a meal because you’re still hungry, that might be a sign your last meal didn’t have enough protein, fiber, or healthy fat.
3. Your “safe” snacks might not be safe for you. What works for your friend or that influencer on Instagram might not work for your body. A CGM or regular checks can help you see what’s really happening.
4. It’s not about never eating carbs. It’s a
...

When it comes to managing Type 1 diabetes or Type 2 diabetes, diet plays a huge role.

Finding meals and snacks that are not only blood-sugar-friendly but also taste amazing can feel like a challenge. But according to an experienced diabetes dietitian, it doesn’t have to be that way.

This high-protein tuna crack dip is a perfect example of how easy, delicious, and diabetes-conscious eating can be. Packed with protein, low in carbs, and made with simple ingredients, it’s an ideal recipe for anyone looking to keep blood sugar stable without sacrificing flavor.

Whether you’re working with a T1D dietitian, a T2D dietitian, or a certified Diabetes Educator, recipes like this one are often recommended as part of a balanced eating plan.

Why This Dip Works for Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes

Before diving into the recipe, it's helpful to understand why this dip is a great option for those living with Type 1 diabetes or Type 2 diabetes.

• High in Protein: Each serving offers over 30 grams...