Controlling blood sugar levels is an important aspect of life for people with diabetes. This requires conscious choices, especially when it comes to snacking. Snacks can help keep blood sugar levels in check throughout the day, or they can be dangerous if they contain refined sugars and high levels of unhealthy fats. In today’s guide, we’re going to dive into the 21 best snacks for diabetics. These snacks are not only tasty and satisfying, but they are also designed to keep blood sugar under control.
By focusing on snacks that are low on the glycemic index (GI), high in fiber, and high in protein, we can create a snacking experience that supports your overall health and wellness. Let’s dive right in and discover all the diabetes-friendly snacks you can eat!
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Criteria for Diabetes-Friendly Snacks
Choosing the right snacks for your diabetes can make all the difference in controlling your blood sugar. One of the most important factors when choosing snacks for diabetes is the glycemic index (GI). GI measures how quickly carbohydrates in food cause your blood sugar to rise.
- Low GI foods are digested and absorbed more slowly, causing your blood sugar levels to rise more slowly over time.
- Diabetic-friendly snacks tend to be mostly low-GI foods to help avoid sudden spikes in your blood sugar.
- High-fiber, high-protein, and high-fat foods can also help keep your blood sugar levels stable.
- Portion control is also important, as even high-fiber and high-fiber snacks can lead to high blood sugar if eaten too often.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your diabetes-friendly foods not only satisfy your cravings but also support your overall health and wellness.
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Dark Chocolate Covered Almonds Recipe
Almonds and dark chocolate are the perfect balance of health and happiness. Almonds are one of my favorite healthy snacks packed with antioxidants and healthy fats, while dark chocolate provides a pleasantly sweet taste and supports cardiovascular health. Dark chocolate-covered nuts are crunchy and contain protein that helps keep your blood sugar in check. Choose varieties with a high cocoa content and low added sugars to maximize your health benefits.
Almonds are a great food for those controlling diabetes. They satisfy thirst while providing essential nutrients. Whether you're looking for a guilt-free snack or a healthy snack, add some chocolate-covered nuts to your daily routine. Not only will it add some luxury to your diet, but it will also support your overall health. Enjoy responsibly and enjoy the delicious combination of taste and health benefits with every bite.
Roasted Chickpeas
Chickpeas are one of the best foods for diabetics as they provide a delicious crunch and are packed with protein and fiber. They help stabilize your blood sugar levels and keep you feeling full, making them a great food for managing diabetes. Roasted chickpeas add texture and flavor to them, making them a delicious dish that you can customize with different spices like garlic, cumin, or paprika without sacrificing health.
Chickpeas contain essential nutrients like iron, magnesium, and folate, which are great for your overall health. You can easily include them in your meals or enjoy them as a snack on the go With a low glycemic index, they're a great option for diabetics who want to satisfy cravings while still maintaining a balanced diet. By adding fried chickpeas to your snack routine, you can help stabilize your blood sugar levels and support your journey to better health.
Cauliflower Hummus
Cauliflower Hummus with Veggie Sticks is a low-carb, delicious, and nutritious meal that's perfect for keeping your blood sugar under control. Cauliflower is a great source of many health benefits, such as its ability to help regulate blood sugar levels. When mixed with colorful vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, cucumbers, and other vegetables, you get a crunchy snack packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
This low-carb, easy-to-make hummus is a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth and support your diabetic diet. It's easy to make and can be dressed up with your favorite seasonings for extra flavor. If you're looking for a tasty and healthy snack that won't leave you with a sugar hangover, try adding this low-carb, guilt-free option to your daily snacking routine.
Sliced Apples with Peanut Butter
Apple is a delicious and diabetic-friendly food. They are high in fiber which helps slow down the flow of sugar in your blood. It helps keep your blood sugar levels stable. Combined with natural peanut butter, you get a delicious combination of healthy fats and protein that will help you feel full and prevent your blood glucose levels from spiking.
When choosing peanut butter, choose a variety that doesn't have added sugar or oil. Peanut butter is a great snack that is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed on the go. If you're looking for an almond butter alternative that's not too sweet or too nutty, you can always experiment with different almond butter alternatives. Apple slices with peanut butter are a delicious combination of sweet, crunchy, and nutty that will satisfy your cravings without sacrificing your health goals.
Tuna Salad on Cucumber Slices
Tuna salad is a delicious and diabetic-friendly dish and one of the best and most healthy balanced snacks that combines the taste of tuna and the crispness of cucumber. This delicious dish is low in carbohydrates, high in protein, and healthy fats, and is suitable for diabetics.
To make the tuna salad, start by gathering 15 ounces of tuna, diced celery (1/4 cup), chopped green onion (2 tablespoons), 3 ounces of low-fat mayonnaise (2 teaspoons), and 1 ounce of soy sauce (1 teaspoon). Mix all these ingredients together in a bowl and adjust the seasonings as needed. For a creamy and protein-packed snack, add 1/4 cup of fat-free Greek yogurt. Once the tuna salad mix is ready, cut a cucumber into small slices and add a spoonful to each slice. This delicious dish will keep your blood sugar under control while you enjoy the delicious taste and texture.
Low-Sugar Granola Bars
Check out these delicious homemade granola bars for a low-sugar, guilt-free snack that will satisfy your sweet tooth! These low-sugar bars are packed with healthy ingredients like almonds, pecans, pumpkin seeds, unsweetened coconut, and more. They are a great food for anyone, especially if you are managing diabetes. Along with this, they're loaded with healthy fats from nuts, seeds, fiber-rich coconut, and hemp hearts, so you'll feel full and energized throughout the day.
With Bestie's fruit allulose blend and a hint of sweetness from ChokZero Sugar-Free Dark Chocolate Chips, these granola bars provide a delicious treat that won't spike your blood sugar. Nut butter, eggs, or vanilla extract not only add flavor but help bind the ingredients together for a perfect chewy texture.
Air Popped Popcorn
Air-popped popcorn is a great choice for diabetics looking for a guilt-free snack. It has a low glycemic index (GI) and high fiber content, making it an ideal choice for maintaining blood sugar levels. By air-popping popcorn, added sugars and fat are reduced, which helps in better glucose control. It's important to avoid adding sugary toppings to popcorn, opting instead for healthier alternatives such as herbs, spices, or nutritional yeast.
When it comes to eating popcorn, it's important to stick to a serving size of about 3 cups. Eating too much can cause blood sugar spikes, so it's best to stick to a 3-cup serving size. Popcorn is a crunchy, tasty snack perfect for diabetics who want a guilt-free, low-glycemic snack. Eating popcorn as part of a balanced diet can help improve overall glycemic control, leading to better health outcomes.
Turkey or Chicken Roll-Ups
Turkey roll-ups are a delicious and protein-rich snack that's easy to make ahead of time. They're also low in carbohydrates, making them a great meal for people managing diabetes. Start by boiling two chicken-flavored bouillon cubes dissolved in two cups of water to make a delicious broth. Then, sprinkle seven thick slices of oven-roasted turkey with 1/2 teaspoon of rotisserie chicken seasoning.
Now, let's make the filling. Mix together 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and a 6-ounce box of stuffing mix. To bind everything together, add 1/4 cup unsalted butter. Spread this mixture evenly over each turkey slice. Roll up tightly and secure with a toothpick if needed. Bake in the oven until cooked and golden brown. These rolls are great on their own or as appetizers for a dinner party.
Edamame
Frozen edamame is one of the best snacks for diabetics. Not only is it delicious, but it's also a great way to control blood sugar. To make the edamame, start by boiling it in a saucepan of water and adding 4 tablespoons of kosher salt. Boil it until soft, usually about 5 minutes. Drain it and sprinkle with half a teaspoon of sea salt flakes. Sea salt gives edamame a crunchy, savory flavor without significantly affecting blood sugar.
This simple yet delicious meal is a great choice for diabetics looking to curb cravings and keep their blood sugar levels under control. It's a plant-based snack packed with fiber, essential vitamins and minerals. You can enjoy edamame as a snack for added protein and nutrition, or on its own in a salad, stir-fry, or grain bowl.
Cottage Cheese with Cucumber Slices
Cucumber slices and whipped cottage cheese are the perfect combination for a quick and healthy breakfast. Also, this is one of my favorite and best snack for diabetics. Cucumber slices are crunchy and sweet, while whipped cottage cheese is creamy and rich. To make whipped cottage cheese: Mix 16 oz. low-fat cottage cheese and 2 oz. Cream cheese in a blender until smooth. Add 1½ oz. Zesty guacamole seasoning and salt to taste. Whipped cottage cheese topped with cucumber slices and capers. Whipped cottage cheese is low in carbs, high in protein, and high in healthy fats. You can enjoy whipped cottage cheese guilt-free whenever you need a snack that won't spike your blood sugar.
Avocado Crackers Recipe
Avocado Slices with Whole Grain Crackers is a delicious and nutrient-dense snack perfect for diabetics who want to keep their blood sugar levels under control. Avocados are known to be a heart-healthy source of monounsaturated fats, which help stabilize your blood sugar levels and keep you feeling full. When paired with fiber-rich, whole-grain crackers, avocado slices provide a satisfying crunch and a steady source.
The combination of high-quality fats and complex carbohydrates helps prevent blood sugar spikes. Apart from being a great food for diabetics, avocados contain potassium, magnesium, vitamins C, E, and K, and many other health benefits. Avocado slices have a creamy texture and a versatile flavor, making them a great addition to any breakfast. If you're looking for a snack that will satisfy your cravings and support your overall health, avocado slices are the perfect addition to your routine.
Hard-Boiled Eggs
Eggs are a low-carb, high-protein food that's easy to prepare ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for quick access throughout the week. Eggs contain virtually no carbohydrates and contain protein that helps stabilize blood sugar levels and keep you feeling full. They provide essential nutrients like vitamin D, which helps your bones and immune system.
If you're looking for something different to snack on, try a hard-boiled egg sprinkled with some salt and pepper. Or, pair them with some fresh vegetables for extra fiber and flavor. By adding eggs to your snack rotation, you're helping your diabetes management goals by curbing hunger pangs and curbing unhealthy cravings. Personally, I love this hard-boiled egg.
Greek Yogurt with Berries
This Greek yogurt with berries is the perfect combination of flavor and nutrition for another great meal to satisfy your sweet tooth and keep your blood sugar in check. First, add 2 cups of Greek yogurt. Greek yogurt is known to be high in protein and low in sugar, which helps keep your blood sugar levels stable. Then, top it off with 1/2 cup of fresh blueberries and 1 cup of fresh raspberries. These berries are packed with antioxidants and fiber content, which slows down the absorption of sugar and prevents your blood sugar from spiking.
This refreshing snack not only satisfies your sweet tooth, but is also packed with essential nutrients that are essential for overall health, diabetes management, and overall wellness. Whether you're eating it for breakfast, refueling after a workout, or craving something sweet to quench your thirst, Greek Yogurt with Berries is a great snack to enjoy. It's full of protein and fiber, and it's naturally sweet, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a balanced snack.
Khaman Dhokla Recipe
Dhokla is a tasty and nutritious dish popular in Indian cuisine and is a low-carb, high-protein food for diabetics. To make Dhokla you will need ingredients like gram flour (besan), fresh ginger, green chilies, coriander leaves, and turmeric. Mix flour with water to make a smooth batter. Add grated ginger and green chilies to the batter. For taste, add chopped cilantro and turmeric. For texture, add semolina or sesame seeds. Add some sweetness from sugar to balance the spice. Add asafoetida or mustard seeds to the batter to give it an aromatic punch.
Steam until the batter is cooked. Garnish with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and green chilies. Dhokla can be served with coriander chutney, mint chutney, and curd chutney. Dhokla is not only delicious for diabetics but also helps in controlling blood sugar levels. I am an Indian myself and in my opinion, these are the best snacks for diabetics in Indian cuisine.
Paneer Tikka
Another one of the best diabetic snacks is Paneer Tikka, which is a delightful combination of flavors. This classic Indian dish consists of grilled paneer cubes marinated in yogurt and spices. Paneer is a type of Indian cottage cheese, which is rich in protein and keeps your blood sugar under control. It is low glycemic, which means it won't spike your blood sugar. The high protein content in paneer tikka helps keep your blood sugar levels stable.
A blend of fragrant Indian spices not only enhances taste but also provides potential health benefits such as anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. If you are looking for a tasty snack that will keep your blood sugar levels under control, cheese is the perfect choice. I know this recipe may seem like a difficult recipe to you, but it is a very simple recipe, and after making it, its taste will blow away all your stress in no time.
Moong Dal Chilla Recipe
For the perfect diabetic-friendly snack, try this delicious Moong Dal Chilla recipe. Rich in protein and low in carbohydrates, it is an ideal choice for controlling blood sugar levels. To prepare this nutritious snack, gather the ingredients including 1 cup Mung Dal (Split Green Gram is best for this recipe), 1/4 cup fresh coriander leaves, 1 clove garlic, 1-inch ginger, 1 green chili, 1/4 tsp cumin, 1/4 tsp. Turmeric powder, 1 tsp salt, 3 tbsp oil, 1/2 tsp cumin, and 3/4 cup water. Blend the soaked mung dal with coriander leaves, garlic, ginger, green chilies, cumin, turmeric, and salt, then ferment the batter for a few hours. Steam the batter until cooked, then serve sprinkled with cumin seeds. With high fiber content and balanced taste, this dhokla is indeed the best breakfast for diabetics, providing a satisfying and nutritious option that won't spike blood sugar levels.
Caprese Salad Skewers Recipe
These Juicy Caprese Salad Skewers are Packed with flavor and packed with nutrients, these tasty skewers are the perfect snack to help keep your blood sugar in check. Each Caprese Salad Skewer is loaded with fresh basil leaves and juicy cherry tomatoes, while each skewer is topped with creamy mozzarella cheese balls. Bright colors and rich flavors make these skewers a real treat for your eyes and taste buds.
Balsamic glazed and topped with extra virgin olive oil gives these skewers a sweet and tangy flavor that perfectly complements the creamy mozzarella. Each bite is seasoned with Italian seasoning freshly ground pepper and a pinch of salt. These caprese salads are not only delicious, but they're also low-carb and high-protein, making them a smart choice for diabetics who are managing diabetes. Treat yourself to a light appetizer or snack, knowing you're making a healthy and delicious choice for your health.
Tomato Basil Bruschetta
Enjoy a delicious and guilt-free snack with this delicious recipe for Bruschetta with Tomatoes and Basil. It is one of the contenders for the best snacks for diabetics. It is full of Mediterranean flavors and rich in antioxidants. Not only is it delicious, but it's also a smart way to keep your blood sugar levels under control.
Start by cutting half a baguette into thin slices and toast until golden brown on both sides. Then, chop two cups of tomatoes into small pieces, chop a clove of garlic into small pieces, and add a teaspoon of fresh basil to the chopped tomatoes. In a small bowl, mix the tomatoes, minced garlic, and basil and toss to combine. Add a quarter-gallon of balsamic vinegar and drizzle over the mixture. Sprinkle salt over the tomato mixture. Finally, spread the bruschetta with a generous dollop of Parmesan cheese and sprinkle the Parmesan over the baguette. Not only is it delicious and satisfying, it helps keep your blood sugar under control while managing diabetes.
Antipasto Platter
This delicious and satisfying "antipasto" platter is another perfect snack for diabetics. It is made with a delicious combination of Italian cold cuts, cheese, olives, and roasted vegetables. It is packed with protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants. Each part of the dish offers a unique culinary experience while keeping your blood sugar levels under control. Protein and fat help keep you full, so you don't have to worry about sudden spikes in your blood sugar. Fiber-rich vegetables help your body digest food more slowly, which helps keep your blood sugar under control.
By putting all these delicious things in one dish, you can create an aesthetically pleasing snack that will not only impress you but also meet the nutritional needs of your diabetic diet. This not only adds variety to your food repertoire but also ensures that you have a guilt-free treat.
Grilled Eggplant Rollatini
Enjoy a delicious and diabetes-friendly treat with this recipe for our delicious Grilled Eggplant Rolls with Ricotta. Start by slicing three eggplants lengthwise on the grill and grill until tender and slightly charred. While the eggplant is cooking, mix together 1 1/2 cups of homemade ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh basil, and the zest of half a lemon to make a creamy filling for the rolls. For the filling, add a pinch of nutmeg, freshly ground black pepper, and salt to taste.
Once the eggplant is cooked, spread a spoonful of the ricotta mixture on each slice and roll the rolls on a few toothpicks. Place the rolls on the grill and let them heat up for a few minutes. Dip the rolls in your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy.
Arancini Rice Balls Recipe
Arancini is one of the most popular snacks in Italian cuisine. Arancini are crispy rice balls filled with a mixture of cheese and herbs. Arancini are known for their delicious taste, but they can be eaten in moderation by diabetics. With careful portion control and careful ingredient selection, you can enjoy arancini in moderation.
When you combine arancini with rice balls, you get a meal rich in complex carbohydrates from the rice, high in protein from the cheese, and full of herbal flavor. The combination of all these ingredients creates a delicious dish that quenches thirst and satisfies blood sugar levels. If you are diabetic, adding arancini to your diet is a great idea. Not only will it quench your thirst, but it will also help you stay on track with your diabetes dietary guidelines.
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Bonus
Mushroom and Bell Pepper Skewers
Mushroom and Bell Pepper Skewers are the perfect snack for a diabetic looking for a healthy and tasty snack that will keep your blood sugar under control. It combines 200 grams of ground chestnut mushrooms with yellow bell pepper and a pinch of chili powder, minced garlic, and Marinated in a combination of olive oil and soy sauce. Chillies not only add sweetness but also vitamin C which helps boost immunity. Brush each skewer with bacon for a delicious twist and grill to perfection. Serve them over a bed of freshly grated arugula for an extra peppery bite. These Skewers are packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, making them the perfect snack to quench thirst and keep your diabetes in control.
Get the recipe here.
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FAQ
Q: Is the fruit safe for diabetics?
A: Yes, many fruits can be part of a diabetes-friendly diet. Choose low-sugar options like berries, apples, and citrus fruits and pair them with protein or healthy fats to help balance blood sugar levels.
Q: Can I enjoy popcorn as a snack if I have diabetes?
A: Yes, air-popped popcorn can be a suitable food for diabetics. It’s low in calories and can provide fiber, but be aware of portion sizes and avoid adding extra butter or salt.
Q: Are almonds a good snack choice for diabetics?
A: Almonds are rich in healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making them an excellent snack choice for diabetics. Just be aware of portion sizes, as nuts are calorie-dense.
Q: How can I make sure my foods are diabetes-friendly?
A: Look for foods that are low in carbohydrates, low on the glycemic index, and high in fiber and protein. Choose whole, unprocessed foods whenever possible, and avoid snacks with added sugars or refined carbohydrates.
Q: Can I include chocolate in my diabetes-friendly diet?
A: Yes, in moderation! Choose dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content, as it has less sugar and more antioxidants. Pair it with nuts or fruit for added nutrition and to help reduce its impact on blood sugar levels.
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Conclusion
Smart snack choices are key to effective blood sugar management. By choosing low-glycemic, high-fiber, and high-protein snacks, people with diabetes can enjoy delicious meals without sacrificing their overall health. Whether you’re looking for nuts and seeds, fresh fruit, Greek yogurt, or protein-rich options like hard-boiled eggs and cheese sticks, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. Be sure to practice portion control, experiment with different flavors, and mix and match to keep your meal routine fun and diabetes-friendly! With these 21 delicious options at your fingertips, you can snack with confidence and balance your blood sugar while keeping your health in control.
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