Healthy Diabetic Snacks

The struggle to control blood sugar is a diabetic's ongoing nightmare. In order to maintain a consistent blood sugar level, a diabetic must ensure that they're consuming low-fat and low-carbohydrate snacks between meals. There are a variety of options available, from those you prepare at home to pre-packaged on-the-go snacks.

Sugar Free

More and more food products that appeal directly to our sense of convenience are appearing on grocery store shelves. These are a diabetic's greatest joy -- finding single-serve sugar free Jell-O packets, or even single-size sugar free ice cream bars make it easier for diabetics to enjoy foods that have historically been on the forbidden foods list. These items are made with Splenda, aspartame and, most recently, an all-natural sweetener made from agave. The substances eliminate or reduce the carbohydrates found in natural sugar.

Diabetic Snack Bars

Snack bars designed specifically for diabetics are fairly new. These bars are intended for filling the gaps between meals, and can even be geared toward preventing hypoglycemia or reducing hyperglycemia. The two types of snack bars are not interchangeable. This is due to the kind of carbohydrates in the formula, even if the carbohydrate count is approximately the same. Do not eat a daytime snack as your bedtime snack and vice versa.

All Natural

Each diabetic, regardless of having type 1 or 2, has their own specific carbohydrate range that they must stay within to maintain their blood sugars. Though it may be tedious and time consuming, the best snacks for diabetics are those that you prepare from all natural fruits and vegetables, cheeses, nuts, yogurt and even crackers. Homemade soups, smoothies and salads are great alternatives to pre-packaged foods which may be higher in fat, sodium and other unnecessary chemicals.

Portion Control

Type 2 diabetics have more flexibility when it comes to their diet. While they know through trial and error what their bodies can and can't handle, most any food can be eaten in moderation. Diabetics aren't supposed to eat fruit for breakfast, but there's no reason why they can't snack on a handful of grapes in mid-morning. Likewise, higher carbohydrate or sweets shouldn't be eaten as the bedtime snack, but a small bit can be enjoyed from time to time as a snack.

Warning

Like many things, moderation is key. It is not difficult to overindulge on diabetic friendly snack foods and this will often result in a blood sugar spike. As always, gradually introduce new foods into your diet to see how your body reacts to them. Many pre-packaged snack foods list the diabetic exchange on the nutritional labels, especially those designed specifically for diabetics. If you have any questions or concerns, always check with your health care provider.

References

• American Diabetes Association
• Diabetic Food & Nutrition