Snack Smarter, Not Harder: The Ultimate Guide to Diabetes-Friendly Snacks

Managing blood sugar levels can feel tricky at times, but it’s important we understand what foods to eat to feel our best. If you have diabetes, you already know how essential it is to avoid foods that spike blood sugar levels. However, we also don’t want a plunge, which is a risk, especially if you take insulin or other diabetes medication. Blood sugar levels should be steady throughout the day.

We’ve all experienced hunger between meals that makes us want to grab a snack ASAP! However, that sudden hunger might mean your blood sugar levels are already dipping, and that ready-to-go, processed snack you choose might just send it straight back up.

Here are some ways to make your snacks work better for you so your blood sugar levels are regulated all day.

Prepare Healthy, Balanced Snacks

Carbohydrates are the body’s primary energy source. They are also most quickly metabolized into sugar. To delay this process and create a more gradual release of energy, combine your diabetes-friendly snacks with fats or protein, which take longer to break down.

Some examples of blood sugar-balancing snacks include:

• Yogurt with roasted nuts and berries
• Veggies (carrots, bell peppers, celery, etc.) with hummus
• Apple or banana with nut butter
• Roasted chickpeas (season with paprika, herbs, whatever you like!)
• Cheese
• Hard-boiled eggs
• Chia seed pudding

Another way to avoid a blood sugar crash is to eat more balanced meals throughout the day. If your main meals are satisfying and balanced, you’ll be less likely to feel that sudden hunger that urges you to snack. Check out Magickitchen.com for an amazing selection of diabetic-friendly meals that are low in sugar and balanced with fiber, protein, and fats!

There is no need to avoid snacking in general. Your snack choices can significantly impact your overall health and diabetes management, especially if you do it right! Limit sodium and simple sugars, be aware of portion control, and balance your snacks with healthy fats and protein. Prepare blood sugar balancing snacks ahead of time so you can take them on the go, and you’ll never have to reach for a processed snack again!