FAQs
Fish. As long as it isn't fried or covered in high-fat and high-sodium sauces, fish is one of the best protein choices for people with diabetes. In fact, the American Diabetes Association specifically recommends eating fish and seafood at least two times per week.
What is the best protein for a diabetic to eat? ›
Fish. As long as it isn't fried or covered in high-fat and high-sodium sauces, fish is one of the best protein choices for people with diabetes. In fact, the American Diabetes Association specifically recommends eating fish and seafood at least two times per week.
What protein does not raise blood sugar? ›
Low-fat types like cottage cheese, ricotta cheese, or mozzarella are high-protein choices that help keep your blood sugar in check.
What is the one food that lowers blood sugar? ›
1. Legumes. Studies have shown that protein-rich legumes can help reduce your blood sugar response to meals you eat later in the day. There's also evidence that following a low-GI diet rich in legumes may reduce blood sugar levels for people with type 2 diabetes and improve blood sugar control.
What are protein recommendations for a person with diabetes based on? ›
How Much Protein Should You Eat With Diabetes? Some health experts suggest that it is more accurate to use the standard formula of 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day. 2 To do this conversion, divide your weight in pounds by 2.2. For instance, if you weigh 150 pounds, that is equal to 68 kilograms.
What is the number one snack to lower blood sugar? ›
But there is one food that stands alone as the best snack for lower blood sugar: nuts. Nuts are delicious, nutritious and incredibly versatile as far as snack foods go. Plus, they can be stored at room temperature (or in the freezer for longer periods) and are great for grab-and-go snacks.
What protein can a diabetic eat for breakfast? ›
For people with diabetes, lean proteins provide energy without a lot of saturated fat, which is linked to heart disease. Animal-based breakfast proteins like eggs and turkey sausage are pretty standard. Good plant-based protein sources include chickpeas, tofu, nuts, and seeds.
Why should diabetics avoid eggs? ›
Having diabetes can put a person at an increased risk of heart disease. Some people are concerned that eating eggs may raise cholesterol levels, and that this could increase the risk of heart disease. The ADA recommend that people eat less than 300 milligrams (mg) of cholesterol per day.
How many eggs can a diabetic eat in a day? ›
How Many Eggs Can People With Type 2 Diabetes Eat? Both research and health experts indicate that individuals living with type 2 diabetes, or at risk of developing type 2 diabetes, can include between 6 - 12 eggs per week as part of an overall healthy diet. So you can enjoy up to 2 eggs, 6 times a week.
What is the best meat for diabetics to eat? ›
Beef, pork, veal and lamb
- Select or Choice grades of beef trimmed of fat including: chuck, rib, rump roast, round, sirloin, cubed, flank, porterhouse, T-bone steak or tenderloin.
- Lamb: chop, leg or roast.
- Veal: loin chop or roast.
- Pork: Canadian bacon, center loin chop, ham or tenderloin.
According to the Diabetes Plate , non-starchy vegetables should make up half of your meal.
- Dark green leafy vegetables.
- Avocado.
- Beans, Dried Peas, & Legumes.
- Fish High in Omega-3 Fatty Acids.
- Nuts.
- Berries.
- Citrus Fruit.
- Whole Grains.
Water is the best all-round drink. If your family likes flavoured waters, make your own by adding a squeeze of lemon or lime, or strawberries.
What are the 5 worst foods for blood sugar? ›
You limit dairy products, red meat, sweets, added sugars, sodium (salt), and highly processed foods. Some additional guidelines include focusing on seasonal produce and reading food labels to help you avoid added sodium and sugar.
What is the best protein for diabetes? ›
Lean meats and fish: For people with diabetes, lean poultry meats and seafood are preferred over red meats because of the strong connection between diabetes and heart disease. Red meats are higher in saturated fat, which can raise your blood cholesterol and further increase your risk of heart disease.
What is the best fruit for diabetics? ›
The Best Fruits for People With Diabetes
- berries — Both citrus and berries are recommended as superfoods by the American Diabetes Association.
- cherries.
- plums.
- grapefruit.
- peaches.
- apples — High fiber fruits like apples and pears help to slow a spike in blood sugar, Rose says.
- pears.
- kiwi.
Bananas are a delicious, nutritious and affordable food for everyone, including those with diabetes. Eating this healthy fruit can help stabilize blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity and improve heart health.
What foods can diabetics eat freely? ›
Here are some examples of free foods for diabetics, as outlined by a committee of the American Diabetes Association and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics:
- Carbonated water.
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder.
- Coffee or tea.
- 1 cup raw cabbage.
- Hard, sugar-free candy.
- 1 cup raw cucumber.
- 2 tablespoons whipped topping.
A healthful alternative
When you need a quick snack to eat on the move, the options are often high in carbs or sugar, for example, sodas, pastries, and candies. These can trigger sugar spikes in people with diabetes. A protein shake might be a more healthful option, as protein digests more slowly than carbohydrate.
Is peanut butter good for diabetics? ›
Peanut butter contains essential nutrients, and it can be part of a healthful diet when a person has diabetes. However, it is important to eat it in moderation, as it contains a lot of calories. People should also make sure their brand of peanut butter is not high in added sugar, salt, or fat.
