Pasta and diabetes: Can diabetics eat whole wheat pasta?

A diabetes diagnosis means it’s time to be cautious and reduce carbs in your diet. Type 2 Diabetes is a condition where the body is unable to absorb blood sugars normally.

Regular pasta can be dangerous to a diabetic, especially when eaten in large proportions. So, the question that lingers is, “can diabetics eat whole wheat pasta?” absolutely!

Whole wheat pasta is low in calories and carbohydrates. It also has a low glycemic index score.

Doctors advise diabetics to reduce refined, simple sugars in meals and replacing them with complex sources of carbohydrates and proteins. Examples of foods that fall in this category are whole wheat flour, whole-wheat pasta, and beans. It takes the body longer to digest these foods, therefore, resulting in stable blood sugars. The body has a steady release of glucose for a longer time. This way you get to reduce your overall carb intake!

Refined foods cause a sudden spike in blood sugar that is followed by a blood sugar drop.

Diabetic pasta substitute

Whole wheat pasta, also known as whole grain pasta, is very nutritious. It contains nearly all the foods groups that exist. whole-wheat pasta contains the label “whole”. They are dubbed whole because the manufacturers used the entire seed to make the pasta. This includes the bran, endosperm, and germ.

Whole wheat pasta contains a lot of fiber, vitamin E, B vitamins, and other minerals. It is a perfect diabetic pasta substitute. Next time you visit the store skip white pasta and go for whole-grain pasta.

Diabetic people are often warned about the danger pasta pose to their blood sugar. Pasta is associated with high carb content. However, doctors say that there three types of sugars; sugars, starch, and fiber. Sugar carbs are not diabetic-friendly. However, starch and fiber are beneficial to a diabetic. They take much longer to digest and release energy periodically.

Whole grain pasta contains starches. These are complex carbs. It is also rich in fiber which gives you a sense of fullness and helps reduce your calorie intake throughout the day.

Whole grain pasta and other whole-grain foods like cereal and bread should be included in a diabetic diet. In addition to these benefits, whole grains also help low cholesterol levels, prevent heart attack and stroke, and are also a form of anti-oxidant.

white pasta is stripped of almost all nutrients. The fiber in bran and gem is removed leaving behind easily digestible simple carbohydrates.

Ways to include whole wheat pasta in your diabetic diet

When shopping for pasta in the local supermarket, look for pasta that has more than 3g of fiber per serving. Here are tips on how to include whole wheat pasta in your diabetic journey;

1. As a diabetic, it is smart to watch your food rations. In as much as whole wheat pasta isn’t carb-loaded, doesn’t mean it does not contain carbs. it is important to remember to fill up your plate with food in the right proportions; that is ¼ protein, ¼ whole grain, and ½ vegetables. Therefore, when you are eating whole wheat pasta, consider serving half as much you would take white pasta. You are probably shocked that that’s too little. I can assure you that the ratio is enough because this type of pasta is generally heavy on the stomach.
2. Make sure you get your fair share of vegetables to accompany the whole wheat pasta. Vegetables such as cabbages, carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, legumes, and zucchini are perfect, or whatever your preference is. The vegetables will add a feeling of satisfaction, seeing that you got a lesser serving of pasta than you are used to. The vegetables also add more nutrients to your diet making it wholesome! You can cut your vegetables in huge chunks and throw them in the cooked pasta or you add the veggies to your homemade sauce.
3. Accompany your whole wheat pasta with a source of protein. Protein tends to make you feel fuller. With these rations, you get to eat healthily and still feel satisfied. Include proteins such as legumes, tofu, shrimp, scallops, or poultry. The best choice would be soy and legumes because they have lower calories and saturated fats.
4. Whole wheat pasta is a heavy meal, therefore take large amounts of water while eating it. This is important to prevent constipation. Also, eat your food slowly and take sips of water in between bites. This will leave you fully satisfied and less likely to eat dessert. Water is important when you are taking in large amounts of fiber.
5. Pasta talk is not complete without touching on the sauce. I mean, pasta tends to take the flavor of the sauces. The sauce has the potential to increase your calorie and fat intake too. Therefore, watch out for high-calorie cream and butter-based sauces; they tend to be high in fat and calories. opt for low-calorie tomato-based sauce. When picking a sauce go for one with less than 75g calories, 3g fat, and 150mg sodium per serving. Use olive oil or other unsaturated fat to avoid using cream or butter.

Homemade diabetic-friendly sauce for pasta

Making your homemade diabetic-friendly sauce is the key to watching the content you eat in the sauce. Start by mixing tomatoes’ (either fresh or canned) with herbs like basil and oregano. Proceed o heat in a pot and serve when it gets a paste-like look.

You can flavor your whole wheat pasta by cooking the pasta with a bit of olive oil, garlic, and lemon or lime juice. This will give it a distinct sour-sweet flavor.

When it comes to the question, “can diabetics eat whole wheat pasta? Here are the key takeaways;

• Take the pasta in the right proportion, preferably it should take up a quarter of your plate
• Serve with a lot of vegetables
• Serve with proteins such as seafood, chicken, or legumes.
• Serve with a diabetic-friendly sauce; one that is low in calories and fat

Diabetic Living: Can Diabetics Eat Rice and Beans?

Live a healthy lifestyle and your body will reward you. If you’re someone who has inevitable diabetes, then practice discipline and life will reward you with more years.

Living as a diabetic is difficult. It is a lifestyle makeover that will save your life many times, and because of that, your diet is always controlled. With that in mind, it’s normal to ask questions. One of the questions most diabetics find themselves asking is, “can diabetics eat rice and beans?”

White flour and rice are some of the two things that diabetics are advised to stay clear off! This makes you wonder after quite some time, “can diabetics eat rice and beans?” It’s a common question because of the carbohydrates you can find in white rice and beans. So, can diabetics eat any kind of rice and beans? Or, does it depend on the variety they choose?

According to many studies, rice causes a blood sugar spike in diabetic patients. It has also been suggested as a cause of prediabetes; the condition that puts you at a higher risk of getting diabetes. The body treats rice as sugar. It is easily digestible; therefore, it hits the bloodstream all at once. In a diabetic person, the chemical used in the absorption of glucose into body cells (glucose) is not effective. Therefore, the sugars stay in the bloodstream longer than they should.

On the other hand, beans are considered very healthy for a diabetic. Beans contain starch, protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients such as iron, zinc, and folate.

Diabetes is a serious condition. Mismanagement of the disease can lead to more serious problems such as heart disease, kidney failure, loss of eyesight, and damage of blood vessels. Changing one’s diet is one of the precautions that a diabetic person is supposed to take.

A diabetic is advised to embrace healthy eating and watch out for those carbohydrates! We all know that carbohydrates easily get converted to sugar in the body, and that is not a good process for diabetics to undergo and experience.

Can Diabetics Eat Rice?

As a diabetic, it is very important to keep tabs on your total carb intake and the glycemic index of the foods that you consume. Foods that have a high glycemic index rating cause a spike in blood sugar. Watching these two factors will ensure that your blood sugar levels are stabilized and you can reduce your reliance on drugs.

Rich is rich in carbs and has a high glycemic index rating. So, can diabetics eat rice? Yes! You only need to limit your portion and eat it occasionally.

In addition, there are healthy types of rice in the market nowadays. Read the packaging to know the carbohydrate count and the glycemic index of the rice before making a choice. The ideal rice for a diabetic contains around 45-60g of carbohydrates per serving. Choose one with a low glycemic index score.

Choose brown rice, wild rice, and long-grain white rice instead of short-grain white rice. This is because they contain more fiber, nutrients, and vitamins and also have a moderate glycemic index score of 56-69. Short grain rice has a high glycemic index score of about 70 and does not have much nutritional value.

It is important to remember to cook your meal al dente. Al dente means a bit crunchy, or still firm to the tooth. Overcooking rice makes its glycemic index much higher.

Doctors advise having your plate as follows; ¼ protein, ¼ grains/starchy foods, ½ non-starchy vegetables. You can opt to add fruit or a low-carb drink.

Watch your portion, around ¼ cup of rice, is enough. That is roughly 15g of carbs.

Can Diabetics Eat Beans?

Beans are recommended for people with diabetes. Beans are an affordable source of vitamins, proteins, fiber, minerals, and antioxidants.

Beans contain carbs that have a low glycemic index, therefore, do not cause a spike in blood sugar. Beans contain a complex carbohydrate that makes the digestion process last longer, therefore resulting in stable blood sugar levels.

Beans have fiber and they are a good way to reduce the effect high glycemic index foods such as cereal have on blood sugar. The fiber in beans will help slow down food digestion, resulting in stable blood sugar levels.

Fiber also helps one manage their weight and cholesterol levels. This can lower the chances of developing conditions associated with diabetes such as heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and obesity.

Beans are a good source of protein. Protein also helps give a sense of fullness, so that one does not feel the urge to snack. ½ cup of protein can provide the same amount of protein as an ounce of meat, minus the saturated fats.

½ cup bean serving contains 125 calories, 15g carbs, 7g protein, and up to 3g of fat when cooked. Baked beans contain more carbs. Also, canned beans often have added sugar, so be keen to read the label before making a purchase.

However, beans cause bloating and gas for some people. It is of great discomfort, but not harmful. The reason bloating occurs after taking beans is because undergoes a bacterial fermentation process that breaks the starch and fiber in them.

The Conclusion: Can Diabetics Eat Rice and Beans?

Beans make a great side dish. Beans can be a side dish to rice, salads, soups and so much more! Combining rice and beans makes the food digestion lasts longer, therefore, avoiding the blood sugar spikes. Beans are also a perfect meat substitute.

For instance, long-grain white rice has a glycemic index score of about 80 and is considered a high GI food. Black beans have a GI rating of about 20, pinto beans 45, kidney beans 20. They are generally low GI foods.

When making a bean purchase, go for the dried ones rather than canned ones. Canned beans contain a lot of salt. Soak the dried beans for about 12 hours and cook them after.

As a diabetic, you can also enjoy canned beans, but be sure to first rinse them to take off the salt or sugar added.

You can spice up your rice and beans meals by adding sugar-free spices such as cinnamon, turmeric, and black pepper.

In conclusion, rice and beans is a safe choice for a diabetic. In fact, diabetics are advised to add this dish to their meal plan.

Rice and beans add protein, fiber, carbohydrates, and other minerals to the body. Beans is a low GI food while rice is a high GI food. The two complement each other! Beans reduce the impact that rice would have on the body if taken alone.

Opt for dried beans rather than canned ones. When it comes to rice, choose long-grain white rice, wild rice, or brown rice. They have a lower GI rating compared to short-grain rice, hence, safer for a diabetic to consume at moderate portion sizes.

Healthy lifestyle: Can diabetics eat pinto beans?

Diabetics are encouraged to include beans in their diet. Changing to a healthy diet is the key to managing your diabetes. A healthy diet will help you have better control of your blood sugar, lower cholesterol, and manage your weight.

Diabetics can continue to eat any meal they are used to, but they have to make some changes to eliminate carbs, calories, and fats.

Beans are a great source of healthy carbohydrates, proteins, fiber, and other minerals. They also rate low in the glycemic index. Beans help diabetics have better control of their sugar than other starchy foods. This is because they undergo a complex digestion process to release the starch and fiber content.

They are very many kinds of beans including pinto beans, kidney beans, white beans, black beans, lima beans, garbanzo beans, and navy beans. With this wide selection, You are likely to find one that suits your taste.

Do beans raise blood sugar?

Beans contain carbohydrates, although these carbs are less likely to harm your blood sugar levels. Beans rank low on the glycemic index score. Beans have complex carbohydrates that make them have a lower rate of digestion. This results in stable blood sugar levels for longer.

So beans raise blood sugar? ½ cup serving of pinto beans contains 125 calories, 15g carbs, 7g proteins, and up to 3g fat. So yes, to some extent they do raise blood sugar

Baked beans may contain higher levels of carbohydrates. Canned beans also contain added sugar.

According to research, each diabetic has individual needs, and there is no overall percentage of carbohydrates, protein, or fat one is supposed to take. It is wise to work out the details with your doctor.

Beans also have high levels of fiber. Therefore, beans are a good way to reduce the impact of high glycemic index foods. Foods with high glycemic scores cause spikes in blood sugar levels. Fiber helps to slow down the digestion process, which helps blood sugars to be stabilized.

Pinto beans will help give a constant supply of energy over a long time, instead of sudden bursts of energy that will send your blood sugar into overdrive. A normal person can absorb blood sugars into the body effectively. However, a diabetic does not effectively carry out this process. The chemical (insulin) used in the absorption of glucose into body cells is ineffective, therefore they require medical insulin. An insulin bolus is taken either after meals or before meals, depending on the food’s glycemic index. Failure to take this medication can cause very high blood sugar episodes followed by very low blood sugar. The insulin makes sure that the blood sugar is effectively absorbed by the body.

Pinto beans are a good source of protein. Protein is very essential to the body and is used in muscle repair. Breaking down protein into glucose takes a long time, therefore slowing down the digestive process. Foods with high protein content also help give a feeling of fullness. This reduces the urge to snack, resulting in a lower overall calorie intake.

Pinto beans can be a great replacement of meat; it offers a good amount of protein without the saturated fats. Besides, beans are affordable and very accessible.

In addition, beans contain important minerals such as iron, zinc, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. They also contain vitamins and have no trans-fat. Beans reduce your chances of getting diabetes.

How to add beans to your diabetic diet

Beans can be served either as a side dish or a main dish. People often add them to salads and chillis or take them as whole meals or have them in bean burgers.

It is probably better to buy raw beans and prepare them at home. This way you have more control of the additives. You can buy dried beans, soak them for up to 12 hours then proceed to cook. This reduces the bloating effect that is associated with beans. Cooked pinto beans can be refrigerated for up to 3 days in a covered container.

Canned beans can also be alternative to avoid the cooking process. Select the can with the least amount of added salt. You can also wash off the beans to get rid of the added salt.

Unlike canned vegetables, canned beans retain most of their nutritional value.

When looking for baked beans, ensure that you try ones with low carb count and sugar content.

Here are some ideas of how to include pinto beans in your diabetic diet;

• Bean chili.
• Salad. Adding kidney beans or pinto beans to a salad
• Bean burritos
• Adding pinto beans to vegetable soups
• Using crushed pinto beans as part of a vegetable burger
• Sandwich filling/ dip. Crush pinto beans and mix with garlic, black pepper, oregano, and sage to make a paste
• Cook beans with rice. Add some vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, and tomatoes. Beans help lower the glycemic index of rice resulting in better blood sugar levels.

In conclusion, pinto beans are a great source of cholesterol-lowering fiber, as with most beans. The fiber also prevents blood sugar spikes after a meal, making them ideal for patients with diabetes, insulin resistance, and hypoglycemia.

Beans form a great accompaniment that is completely fat-free and high-quality protein. Pinto bean is also a good source of folate, vitamin, copper, phosphorus, zinc, and magnesium.

Therefore, “can diabetics eat pinto beans?” absolutely! You can enjoy them cooked or boiled. Opt for homemade beans so that you can control the additives. Embrace rice and beans are part of your diet. You can also make bean burritos, bean soup, or bean chili. There are many ways to have your beans.

Beans are great for a diabetic; they help manage blood sugar levels and will eventually help you reduce your reliance on medication. Embracing a healthy lifestyle is very important to a diabetic. However, a healthy diet is just part of the big change. Exercise and a good psychological state will also help you live a quality life.

Diabetic diet: Can diabetics eat nuts and raisins?

Diabetics are advised to carefully watch their carb and calorie intake. Lack of proper disease management can lead to grave consequences, such as organ failure and heart disease.

Fruits tend to have a healthier form of carbohydrate that comes mostly in the form of starch. Diabetics are advised against taking foods with a high glycemic index score. These foods generally raise blood sugar and after a few hours, the patient experiences completely low blood sugars. High glycemic foods include soft drinks, white bread, white pasta, and all sugary snacks you can think of.

It is important to note that even the carbohydrate found in fruits has the potential to cause a blood sugar spike. Therefore, as with all other foods, moderation is key. Opting for a healthier source of carbohydrates such as raisins and nuts will be a wise decision; this combination also gives the body fiber, vitamins, and anti-oxidants. So, “can a diabetic eat nuts and raisins?” let us study this further!

Can diabetics eat raisins?

Raisins are sun-dried seedless grapes. Raisins retain the nutritional content of grapes. There are a lot of misconceptions that revolve around what a diabetic is allowed to eat and what is harmful. Unfortunately, most people assume that because is sweet, it should be avoided in a diabetic diet. So “can diabetics eat raisins?”

Diabetic patients can have raisins and other fruits. However, this does not mean that you can eat the whole box of them! You have to exercise control.

When purchasing raisins from a local store, avoid ones with added sugar. Raisins have so much sugar that adding sugar is unnecessary. One and a half once box of raisins has about 34g carbs which are equivalent to 2 slices of white bread. It is important to note that raisins can make your blood sugar spike too.

In addition to being a healthy source of carbohydrates, raisins also offer other nutrients such as potassium, magnesium, and anti-oxidants. They contain no fat, saturated fat, or cholesterol. One serving of raisins gives 3g of fiber and up to 90 calories.

Eating raisins can help prevent conditions that are brought on by diabetes such as heart disease, stroke, blood pressure, and cholesterol. In fact, according to multiple experiments, raisins help stabilize blood sugar levels and can even help you reduce reliance on insulin.

Raisins are also heavy on the stomach, they give a feeling of satiety, decrease appetite, and are a good way of including fiber-rich meals in our diet. As a diabetic, ensure you get your daily fiber fix by at least finishing half your plate containing vegetables and fruits.

There are many misconceptions around raisins; that they affect blood sugar and can cause cavities. These are all lies. Simply eat your fair share of raisins!

Can diabetics eat nuts?

Nuts are considered very nutritious. They have high vitamin, mineral, calcium, and unsaturated fatty acids. A diabetic is advised to consume at least a handful of nuts every day.

However, not all nuts are safe for a diabetic; others are safer than others. It is important to note that nuts are high in calories. Diabetics are advised to practice portion control. One ounce per serving is adequate. Although nuts are not associated with weight gain, overeating nuts can lead to weight gain. Coated nuts are a big no for diabetics since they tend to contain a lot of carbs. dry roasted or raw nuts are ideal for diabetics.

So, can diabetics eat nuts? Here are the best nuts suggested for diabetic people;

• Walnuts. Walnuts are a good source of protein and fiber; these help manage appetite and blood sugars. They give a feeling of fullness, therefore, preventing snacking before meals which will eventually lead to weight loss. Walnuts also contain anti-inflammatory constituents such as alpha-lipoic acid (ALA). Diabetes and other diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and heart disease are closely linked to inflammation. This makes walnuts ideal for diabetics.
• Almonds. Almonds help prevent heart disease for type 2 diabetics. They are also a good sauce of fiber. In addition, almonds are a great source of magnesium. This is ideal for diabetes patients because most diabetics lack magnesium. Taking higher amounts of magnesium to promote healthy bones, stable blood sugar, normal blood pressure, and effective muscle and nerve function.
• Pistachios. With a recommended serve size of about 45 nuts, pistachios are a great source of fiber, protein, and healthy fat. They also help lower cholesterol levels.

How to include nuts and raisins in your diabetic diet

There are many ways to include nuts and raisins in your diabetic diet, these include:

1. You can choose to add powdered nuts to your cup of tea
2. Add nuts and raisins to your smoothie. Put nuts and other ingredients in a blender and simply blend!
3. Add raisins and nuts to your desserts. Hearing the word dessert automatically screams unhealthy! However, nowadays you can make your nut-based unsweetened desserts. Make sure to put enough nuts and raisins in your desert to even out the carbs!
4. You can also top your salad with raisins and nuts! They make the salad more interesting
5. Use as a pancake topping. Instead of using syrup, use raisins, and other berries as your pancake topping
6. Add to cereal or oatmeal. Adding nuts and raisins to cereal will help balance out its glycemic index
7. You can eat raisins and nuts as a snack on your own too! However, remember that they form part of your calorie intake for the day too!

When it comes to the question, “can diabetics eat raisins and nuts?” here are the key takeaways

• Raisins and nuts are very healthy for diabetics; however, portion control is the key to eating these snacks
• Raisins and nuts have anti-oxidants and anti-inflammatory that is very helpful in diabetes management
• Consider combining raisins and nuts with other meals. It is a sneaky way of ensuring you are getting your fiber and protein intake.

So, there you have it! Enjoy taking your nuts and raisins without any guilt.

Living with diabetes: Can diabetics eat chips?

Can diabetics eat chips? This is a common question by many. It’s no surprise why anyone would ask because chips are just crispy strips of potatoes, right? Well, I know you have stopped and wondered about them, too. Are diabetics allowed to eat these chips? Spare a moment of your time and get to learn the answer!

Upon a diabetes diagnosis, you are told to have restrictions on the kind of food you eat. You are told to limit carbs and sugar intake to watch your blood sugar levels and weight. Are chips carbohydrates? Do they contain sugar? Well, one thing’s for sure – they’re very high on calories. Need I say more? Of course, let me explain.

Most chips have a high calorie and starch content. Depending on what variation, chips can also be packed with sugar you never knew about. Therefore it would be wise to be very careful when consuming this snack especially when you are diagnosed with diabetes. If you are having trouble controlling your blood sugar levels, it might be smart to completely keep off chips.

Chips are also known to cause additional problems such as heart disease and obesity – that’s right! Because of its high-calorie content, chips can be the main factor next to soda when it comes to bloating and weight gain. The good news is… Some chips aren’t going to be bad for your health even if you are a diabetic.

You can enjoy chips even with your diabetes; the trick is portion control and finding the healthiest chips for your condition. So, can diabetics eat chips? The healthy kind! A diabetes diagnosis does not mean you stop eating all the meals you enjoy. I know it feels like cheating and you may end up feeling guilty after eating chips, but you don’t have to anymore!

How to include chips in a diabetic-friendly diet?

I won’t lie, chips generally have a very low nutrient content, but that does not mean they cannot be part of a diabetic-friendly diet.

As with all carb-containing foods, portion control is very important. And if you consider your health, do not eat chips regularly. Have them only when you need to tame your cravings. According to diabetes experts, one ounce of chips per serving is enough for a diabetic. One ounce is equivalent to 15 chips. You can choose to buy one-serve packets to make accurate decisions when it comes to the portions.

You can add the nutrient content in chips by adding guacamole and healthy sauce or salsa. When eating with salsa, consider the following portions; ¼ cup salsa and 15 potato chips. Salsa is a perfect condiment for chips since it adds fibre, has minimal calories, is carb-free, non-starchy, and fat-free. Salsa contains about 4g of carbs. Opt for baked potato chips.

The Best Chips For Diabetics

People who have type 2 diabetes are advised to keep tabs on their carb intake. So let’s compare different types of chips and recommend the best chips for diabetics.

Baked Chips: baked chips are generally low in fat and saturated fats

Popped Chips: regular chips are deep-fried, however, popped chips are cooked without oil therefore they contain lesser fats. Popped crisps are cooked like popcorns, they are put in a pressurized pot and cooked till they “pop” popped chips are lighter than regular chips therefore, you get more chips in a packet. They have lesser calories compared to regular chips therefore you can take in larger servings.

Rice Cakes and Crackers: rice cakes are low in calories and fats, but be careful when consuming them because they have a high glycemic index, meaning they affect blood sugar levels very quickly. As always, be keen with your portion, do not overindulge. Be careful to avoid rice cakes with very high salt content. Also, don’t go for chocolate or yoghurt-coated ones, as they likely have higher levels of fat, sugar, and calories. Rice Cakes can be used as a meal substitute if you don’t have time for a full meal.

Vegetable Crisps: these are new to the market. They are perfect for diabetics due to their nutrient content. However, be keen to avoid ones with high fat and salt content. It is better to make your homemade veggie crisps so that you can control the fat, salt content. Homemade veggie crisps are also cheaper than those from the market! Depending on the vegetable you use, veggie crisps are high in fiber and add vitamins and minerals to your diet.

Which chips are best for diabetics?

Chips generally have a high glycemic index, meaning they cause blood sugar spikes when eaten in large portions. When eaten, chips are broken down into simple sugars which enter the bloodstream. They are then absorbed into body cells. When there are high levels of sugar in the bloodstream with low absorption into the body cells, this is when a diabetic person starts experiencing a blood sugar spike.

You may be wondering which chips are best for diabetics. Here is a complete guide on which chips to select the next time you visit the store.

• Choose the chips with the least ingredients. You’re less likely to go wrong with the chips with the least ingredients. Keep it simple and especially avoid artificial flavours and preservatives. Count the sodium and carb content in your packet of chips. Use salsa and other homemade condiments to accompany your chips.
• Select chips made from healthy vegetable oil. Choosing heart-healthy chips is good for your weight and diabetic journey. Look for chips cooked with expeller-pressed oil, which means no chemicals were used in the extraction process.
• Choose popped, baked, and kettle-cooked chips. Popped chips and baked chips are the best because of their low-fat content. Kettle-cooked chips also have low-fat content compared to fried chips.
• Select whole-grain chips. choose “whole kernel” or “stone-ground” chips. They tend to have higher levels of fibre and lower glycemic index.

No one likes to be told no, especially when it comes to their stress-relieving snacks. Chips happen to be one of the most common comfort food! You can still enjoy this snack even while living with diabetes. Keep tabs on your carb intake. Do not let chips upset your medical goals by messing with your blood sugar. If you struggle with portion control, it might be wise to completely keep off chips.

Here are the key takeaways to answer the question, “can diabetes eat chips?”

• Choose baked, popped, or kettle-cooked chips
• Opt for the chips with the least ingredients
• Keep your portions at one ounce per serving or 15 potato chips
• Accompany chips with homemade condiments such as salsa to increase nutrients to your meal
• Don’t take chips regularly. Don’t use chips as a meal substitute because you will deprive your body of nutrients
• You can substitute potato chips with veggie chips and whole-grain chips.

Living with diabetes: Can diabetics eat brown sugar?

Before we move forward with the topic, it’s important to know what we’re dealing with, right? Before we ask the question, “can diabetics eat brown sugar?” We have to make sure we know what being a diabetic is in the first place.

So, Diabetes affects the body’s ability to manage blood sugar levels. It’s a lifelong disease that necessitates a lifestyle change, especially when it comes to diet.

Constant spikes in blood sugar levels in a diabetic can be dangerous. Their system is weakened, insulin is unable to help in the absorption of sugars into body cells. Failing to manage blood sugar levels can result in damaged vessels and other body organs such as kidneys, eyes, and the heart.

Everyone loves the sweetness that sugar adds to different food and drinks. Whether it’s as an ingredient or the main dish, sugar takes place in many of the recipes that circle today’s life. It is next to impossible to completely avoid sugar. Diabetics are advised to keep off sweets, sugars, most desserts, and even a diet is advised.

Sugar can be extremely dangerous for a person with type 2 diabetes, but brown sugar is a bit different from white sugar; which leads to this question, “can diabetics eat brown sugar?” The easy answer is: no! Such a downer right? However, an occasional treat wouldn’t hurt much. It always depends on your diet, how much you’re handling it and how much of the brown sugar is included in the consumption.

Here’s full information on the effects of brown sugar on diabetes.

Does brown sugar cause blood sugar spikes?

Brown sugar is extracted from sugarcane or sugar beets just like regular table sugar. Molasses are added to this sugar to make it brown and give it a richer taste.

Brown sugar contains 3.5-6.5% molasses. When compared to white sugar, brown sugar is completely or partially unrefined. Therefore, brown sugar boasts of some vitamin and mineral content that is otherwise lost in refining white sugar. This means brown sugar has a higher nutritional value when compared to white sugar.

Some brown sugar is made by simply adding molasses to the white sugar.

Does brown sugar cause blood sugar spikes? The answer is yes. To further prove this, let us look at the nutritional value of brown sugar in one tablespoon;

• Calories 17.5g
• Protein 0g
• Fat 0g
• Carbs 4.51g

White sugar is closely similar to brown sugar nutritionally. It contains 16.2g calories and 4.2g carbs. The idea that brown sugar is good for a diabetic is a myth. Brown sugar is just as dangerous to a diabetic as white sugar. For instance, a bowl of oatmeal contains 25 grams of carbs, adding brown sugar immediately doubles this carb content.  If you have to enjoy an occasional snack, make sure you accompany it with proteins or fibre to manage your blood sugar levels.

As a diabetic, if you have to take sugar opt for brown sugar due to additional nutrients such as iron, calcium, and potassium.

Brown sugar is also an added sugar as opposed to natural sugars found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and dairy products.

Brown sugar alternatives for diabetics

If you need some sweetness in a meal, there are some brown sugar alternatives you can use as opposed to using brown sugar.

• Use herbal sugar like Diabliss. Diabliss has a low glycemic index and is a healthier option compared to brown sugar. It also has some other medicinal advantages like acting as an anti-oxidant and reducing blood sugar spikes.
• Stevia. Stevia is a natural source of sweetness that is 300 times sweeter than table sugar. Stevia contains zero calories, therefore, has minimal effect on sugar levels. Stevia bears different brand names including Truvia, Sweetleaf, and Sun Crystals. Stevia is a good sugar alternative for diabetics, however, it is more expensive than sugar and its other substitutes. Therefore, you will have to weigh these factors before making a decision. In addition, stevia has an unpleasant aftertaste that puts off some people. Manufacturers, therefore, add other sugars to eliminate the aftertaste. This reduces the nutritional benefit of pure stevia.it has also been reported to cause nausea, bloating, and stomach upset for some people.
•  Sucralose is also a good brown sugar substitute for diabetics. It is found in bubble gums and baked goods because it retains its taste even in high temperatures. It is the most popular artificial sweetener. It is approximately 600 times sweeter than table sugar.
• Tagatose. This is a form of fructose that is almost twice as sweet as sugar. Some fruits such as apples, oranges, and pineapples are sources of tagatose. Tagatose is a low-calorie sweetener that also doubles in as a texturizer and stabilizer. However, it might be hard to get the product and it is quite expensive.
• Aspartame. It is an artificial sweetener that is about 200 sweeter than table sugar. However, it tends to lose its taste in high temperatures.
• There are various sweeteners in the market such as xylitol, erythritol, monk fruit, etc. these are low-calorie sweeteners that are ideal for diabetics. These are completely calorie and carb-free but have added flavours and colours to match the taste and appearance of sugar.
• Fruits. A diabetic can resort to fruits to feed their sugar cravings. Fruits such as apples, berries, and citrus are ideal for diabetic patients. Fruits are naturally occurring sugars that are considered generally healthy.

It should be noted that using sweeteners such as honey, molasses, and maple syrup is not advisable. These tend to have the same effects on diabetics as brown sugar.

When choosing a sweetener, use the following guidelines:

1. Consider the intended use of the artificial sweetener. Some of these sweeteners break down in high temperatures and are therefore more suitable for tabletop use only.
2. Taste. Some sugar substitutes have an aftertaste that many people find unpleasant.
3. Natural versus artificial. You have the choice of whether to use natural sweeteners like stevia or opt for artificial sweeteners. However, using natural sweeteners does not necessarily mean that they are more healthy.
4. Cost. some sweeteners like stevia are very expensive. When choosing a sweetener, it might be budget-friendly to take one that costs close to table sugar.

Can diabetics eat brown sugar? Well, here are the key takeaways to this article:

• Brown sugar is just as harmful as white sugar and should be avoided, even if brown sugar does have beneficial vitamins and minerals.
• Opt for healthier, low-calorie sweeteners such as stevia, especially if it is affordable.

As a diabetic, it is advisable to feed your sugar cravings with fruits instead of sugar or artificial sweeteners. Mangos, strawberries, and blueberries are good options.

The world offers a lot of delicious fruits and vegetables for you to enjoy. There are so many preferences that can suit your taste buds. The great thing about them is they come au natural, meaning they have no added sugar or other junk in them.

However, there may be a problem. Like everything else in the world, some buts may need to be considered being a pre-diabetic dealing with high blood sugars or already being diagnosed with diabetes. Can you smash a bowlful of delicious cherries, or you were told to just have one or two, or were you told to avoid them altogether? The question is can diabetics eat cherries?

To help you better understand, “can diabetics eat cherries?” Keep reading and hopefully, you will find the answer you need to go on with planning your diet. With that being said, if your doctor has specifically instructed you to avoid cherries, then you need to have a conversation with him or her about it after you arm yourself with correct knowledge. But, remember that your doctor knows your body, so listen to your doctor whatever they advise after you ask your questions.

I Can’t Eat Fruit If I Have Diabetes?

While preparing for this article I came across this question. At first, I was just going to carry on with my research, but then I got to thinking, “how many people have been told this, and just blindly accepted it?” It’s easy to understand why people just accept advice like this especially when it is their health on the line.

I decided that the question required a little bit of digging and attention because that just did not sound right to me. Often people with diabetes get told to avoid fruits because of the high sugar content. Yes, all fruits contain natural sugars but, they also contain a good mix of minerals, vitamins, and fibre as well that could do wonders for a person – even with diabetes.

Eating fruits, and vegetables have been associated with lowering the risks of several health conditions such as high blood pressure, heart diseases, strokes, obesity, and certain cancers. All of which are concerns for those living with diabetes. Fruits and vegetables come loaded with things like soluble, and insoluble fibres which promote good bowel and gut health.

So, isn’t it right to question why you are being told to avoid certain fruits? Maybe, the better solution is to know the right portion sizes that can work for you even if you are diabetic. Food consumed at a lower portion can be healthy, and not totally bad for you at all.

There are so many ways to include cherries in a healthy diet that is both delicious and enjoyable while including fruits and vegetables in your daily plan. As with anything, talk to your doctor about safe blood sugar levels, and discuss serving suggestions as well. You can eat fruit as a diabetic – it should be considered almost necessary. Head on over to Diabetes.org.uk and read this great article that goes into great detail about diabetics and fruit.

Are Cherries Good For You?

Enjoying a piece of fruit, or a delightful fruit salad as a dessert is a great way to please that sweet tooth and get some extra nutrients too. They contain carbohydrates as well, which means that you have to include them in your meal plan.

All fruits have naturally occurring sugars, this includes cherries. If you cannot access fresh cherries and are buying canned fruit/cherries, make sure words like “packed in its juices”, “unsweetened” or “no sugar added” appear on the label.

The other thing you must be aware of is the variety of cherries you are consuming. Due to the way they are prepared, they have varying amounts of sugar contained within. For example, having a snack of just 5 maraschino cherries is going to smack you with 11g of carbohydrates which equates to 2.5 teaspoons of sugar! A cup of canned cherries, with heavy syrup, is going to be 60g of carbs equaling about 15 teaspoons of sugar. You see how they can differ greatly depending on how they are prepared for consumption.

Cherries can be a healthy snack choice as with any fruit you may prefer. The main point though is to closely watch the carbohydrates they are going to give you. That will depend on how many cherries you are planning to consume, how often you can eat cherries, and what type of cherries you are eating. So, are cherries healthy for you? Yes, they can be if consumed properly and not loaded with sugar. With the right portion sizes, it will be magical.

What Kind of Cherries Are Better For Diabetics?

Fresh sour cherries sit relatively low on the GI scale coming in at 22. With this being said, this number will differ depending on the type of cherries you eat. The more processed they are, the more carbohydrates and sugars they are likely to contain. So, it’s right to start digging into which variety of cherries is best for you as a diabetic. One cup of sweet cherries has about 25g of carbs which equates to 6 teaspoons of sugar, while one cup of sour cherries has 19g of carbs which is the same as 5 teaspoons of sugar.

Then you have dried cherries and frozen cherries. These are alternatives that allow you to still enjoy this fruit even when they are out of season. But make sure you are reading labels correctly. Select frozen cherries that have no added sugars. Two types of cherries that you should avoid are canned cherries and glace, or candied cherries.

Canned cherries often contain added sugar that could cause spikes in your blood sugar levels. Candied cherries are heavily processed, which means they are going to contain a lot of added sugar that you do not need, and are heavily dangerous to your health as a diabetic. The best kind of cherries for diabetics is going to be the fresh sour cherries, with fresh sweet cherries coming in second. Dried cherries are the better choice when they are out of season.

Final Thought – Can Diabetics Eat Cherries?

Cherries can be a great part of your diet. They provide you with Vitamin C, Potassium, Fiber, as well as antioxidants. Naturally, you want to make sure you pay attention to portion sizes to keep your levels in an acceptable range. Fruits, in general, should be considered essential for diabetics due to their health benefits.

As a diabetic, you can surely eat cherries! You should question anyone that tells you to avoid fruits as a diabetic. The evidence is there to support the health benefits, and the necessity of them being part of a healthy diet plan. As always though, you need to track your levels, as well as your consumption amount of cherries, and other fruits too. They do pack natural sugars and carbohydrates and are most often better consumed fresh.