1. Sliced Avocado with Lime
Avocado has been recommended for diabetics by The American Diabetes Association as they can lower LDL cholesterol levels without reducing beneficial HDL cholesterol. Monounsaturated fats improve heart health - an especially significant benefit for diabetics. Add few slices of avocado to your sandwiches or mash a ripe avocado with cilantro, lime juice, and diced tomato for a delicious guacamole dip.
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2. Fruits (Whole)
Fruits like strawberries, apples, and peaches are not only tasty but also healthy. Low in glycemic index and packed with a variety of essential nutrients, they are ideal for diabetics. Cherries, pears, and grapefruit are other good options - even plums and oranges.
3. Pistachios
Of all nuts, pistachios contain the highest level of phytosterols - natural plant compounds which can lower cholesterol and cut your risk of complications from diabetes. A study in Spain showed that people who kept a habit of eating about 50 pistachio nuts every day, for 24 weeks reduced cholesterol by 15 points, improved their blood sugar, and lowered inflammation.
4. Whole Grain Toast with Peanut Butter
This combination is a healthy source of monounsaturated fat and protein, which makes a nutritious addition to meals and snacks for people with diabetes. Low in carbohydrate content, peanut butter keeps blood sugar under the control its healthy fats make the appetite satisfied for several hours. Peanut butter with little sugar is a smart choice and be sure to measure out each serving to keep calories in check.
5. Shrimp
Diabetics don't have to give up or at least drastically reduce their favorite foods. Shrimp is the perfect choice for the diabetic.It is packed with protein, very little fat and virtually no carbohydrates. Not to mention it's delicious!
6. Beans
The American Diabetes Association recommends that diabetics consume beans several times a week because they are considered a diabetes super food. Why not try mashing up some pinto beans with salsa and making a delicious bean dip. You can have it with baked tortilla chips or corn tortillas.
7. Popcorn
Popcorn is a whole-grain snack that is rich in fiber, magnesium, and other nutrients. However, different from the kind you get at the movies, which is usually swimming in butter and loaded with salt, the air-popped popcorn is suggested to mix with some garlic or chili powder instead.
8. Cheese & Crackers
String cheese is a source of protein and fits in well with a healthy diabetes diet. The pre-packaged sticks also fit nicely into a purse and aid portion control. For a nutrition boost, nibble on single servings of the cheese with some whole-grain crackers and apple slices, or even baby carrots.
