25 Diabetes-Friendly Recipes to Help Keep Your Blood Sugar in Check (2024)

FAQs

What can diabetics eat to keep blood sugar stable? ›

Eating protein — from meat and fish, tofu, nuts, eggs, and cheese — with carbs can slow that flow of glucose and help stabilize blood sugar. “Proteins hold back the sugars, slow them down, and then release them into the bloodstream slowly so that your blood sugar stays in a more normal range,” O'Meara says.

You may be able to help keep your blood sugar stable by making changes to your diet, including reducing sugar and refined carbs, drinking enough water, and getting regular exercise. Blood sugar spikes occur when your blood sugar rises and then falls sharply after you eat.

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.

If you're still feeling hungry, your best bet is a low-carbohydrate, low-calorie snack, preferably one that's high in protein or fiber, such as Greek yogurt or a small handful of nuts. Other options include: A sugar-free frozen pop.

Foods with a low glycemic index (GI) may help people lower or manage their blood sugar levels. Examples include whole grains, nuts, legumes, some fruits, non-starchy vegetables, and lean proteins.

The 15-15 rule—have 15 grams of carbohydrate to raise your blood glucose and check it after 15 minutes. If it's still below 70 mg/dL, have another serving. Repeat these steps until your blood glucose is at least 70 mg/dL.

Drink water

In addition to preventing dehydration, it helps your kidneys flush out excess sugar through urine.

increased thirst and a dry mouth. needing to pee frequently. tiredness. blurred vision.

Sweets. Sugary foods can cause dangerous spikes in your blood sugar levels. Carbohydrates found in most vegetables and whole grains don't affect your blood sugar as much, and the fiber in them helps you digest them slowly. This will keep your blood sugar from going high.

Avoid nuts that are coated in salt — Dobbins notes that sodium is bad for your blood pressure — and sugar. More bad news if you love the sweet-and-savory combo: Chocolate-covered peanuts and honey-roasted cashews are high in carbs and not the best choice when you have diabetes, Dobbins says.

Which foods should diabetics limit to help control blood sugar levels? ›

Sugary foods, such as candy, cookies, cake, ice cream, sweetened cereals, and canned fruits with added sugar. Drinks with added sugars, such as juice, regular soda, and regular sports or energy drinks. White rice, tortillas, breads and pasta - especially those made with white flour.