If you are diabetic, eating snacks throughout the day is important because it helps blood sugar levels stay within the normal range. Snacking also helps prevent overeating at mealtimes, which leads to better control over weight and stable blood sugar.
One of the problems people with diabetes face is finding snacks that are easy to make but don't compromise their blood sugar levels. As many of the foods in modern grocery stores are pre-made or pre-packaged, diabetics may have a difficulty avoiding items with preservatives, which have a negative impact on blood sugar levels. You also have to be mindful about calories and remember to fold snacks into your daily count.
Luckily, finding diabetic snacks that are natural and light on sugars and carbs are not as difficult as most people think. Below are some of the ingredients that are used widely amongst diabetics and healthy people alike.
Peanut Butter Snacks
Peanut butter is a tasty and flavorful food that can be paired with lots of different food, including breads, veggies, and fruits. They are also highly filling and don't need to be consumed in large quantities. Some interesting ideas are:
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Ritz whole wheat crackers topped with banana
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Graham crackers topped with banana
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Rice cakes
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Whole-wheat mini bagels
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Carrot and celery sticks
Popcorn Snacks
Popcorn is an excellent way to get your daily dose of whole grain. Three cups of popcorn can equal one slice of whole wheat bread, five whole wheat crackers, half a mini whole wheat bagel. Make sure to use hot air, like steam, instead of oil to make popcorn. Some of the things you can mix it with are:
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Parmesan cheese
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Cajun spices
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Chili powder
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Pumpkin seeds
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Nuts
Dipping Snacks
Take a cue from the party host handbook and munch on dipped veggie, fruits, and crackers with an array of different toppings, like:
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Tomato salsa with baked corn chips
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Hummus with whole wheat pita bread
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Low feat bean dip with baked potato chips
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Low fat tuna dip with low fat potato chips
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Low fat cottage cheese with celery or other vegetable
Egg Snacks
Eggs are a great source of protein and are very filling. They can be made in advanced and be paired with mealtime dishes, like salads or sandwiches. Be careful not to overindulge in them, as the yolks are also high in cholesterol. Try:
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Hard-boiled eggs
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Stuffed eggs
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Smoked eggs
Baked Snacks
Baking is a great way to add a new spin on old snack ideas. There are tons of whole-wheat treats you can make into bread, muffins, or pastries that remain tasty and flavorful, especially if you add:
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Ground flax
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Chopped nuts
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Cinnamon
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Nutmeg
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Dried fruits
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Small pieces of real fruit
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Applesauce (instead of oil)