Diabetes Nutrition

Just because you have type 2 diabetes doesn't imply you can't enjoy anything sweet again. There are methods to fulfill your cravings from time to time with a little planning.

Finding delicious sweets that are minimal in carbohydrates and added sugar might be difficult if you have diabetes.

Not only that, but choosing snacks packed in fiber, protein, and heart-healthy fats to help with blood sugar regulation can be tough. Fortunately, there are many healthful alternatives available, many of which can be made at home with only a few ingredients.


If you have diabetes, you may include sweets and desserts in your diet as long as they are part of a balanced eating plan and you don't overindulge, according to the American Diabetes Association (ADA). The American Diabetes Association also suggests consulting with a registered dietitian, a certified diabetic care and education expert (CDCES), or another diabetes healthcare professional to help you develop a personalized meal plan.


Why You Should Limit Your Sugar Intake If You Have Type 2 Diabetes

According to the ADA, when you eat or drink carbs like sugar, starch, and fiber, your body converts them into glucose, elevating levels in your blood. If you have type 2 diabetes, your body is unable to use insulin properly to transfer glucose from your blood into cells, where it is used for energy. As a result, it's critical to take precautions to keep your glucose levels from skyrocketing.

You should also consume nutritious meals that are abundant in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, and avoid or eat only modest amounts of foods that include harmful elements such as added sugar, excessive salt levels, and unhealthy fats.

Many sweets, such as cakes, cookies, and candies, are highly processed and rich in added sugar, refined wheat, and saturated fats, therefore they should be consumed in moderation as an occasional treat.


What are some Clever Ways to Enjoy Sweets?


Here are 5 easy sweet snacks and treats for diabetics.


1. Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate may be a healthy and tasty way to fulfill your sweet appetite when consumed in moderation.

It's notably high in flavonoids, a kind of plant ingredient that may assist patients with type 2 diabetes reduce insulin resistance and cardiac issues.

Furthermore, it has less sugar, carbs, and calories than milk chocolate, with only 13 grams of carbs in each 1-ounce (28-gram) portion.

Look for dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content and limit yourself to 1 ounce (28 grams) at a time for the greatest benefits.


2. Chia pudding


Chia Pudding

Chia pudding is a healthy, delicious, and simple recipe that requires only a few simple ingredients.

It contains chia seeds, which are high in fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Adding chia seeds to your diet may be associated with lower blood sugar levels and lower diastolic blood pressure, according to a review of 12 studies.

In a jar, combine 1/2 cup (120 mL) almond, oat, or coconut milk, 2 tablespoons (25 grams) chia seeds, and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to make chia pudding.

You can also top the pudding with your favorite fruits and place 


3. Banana Pops with Peanut Butter


Banana and peanuts

To produce rich, creamy popsicles, you don't need sweet ice cream. Simply apply natural peanut butter over banana halves, wrap in chopped peanuts, and freeze on parchment paper until firm.

The bananas will become creamy, but because they are high in fiber and free of added sugars, they will not spike your blood sugar like other frozen sweets.


4. Blueberry Mint Parfait


Bluberry

Plain yogurt topped with fresh blueberries isn't simply good for breakfast. When topped with a sprig of fresh mint, the dish serves as a classy, just-sweet-enough dessert.

Berries are strong in fiber and antioxidants while being low on the glycemic index, so they have a smaller influence on blood sugar levels than many other fruits.


5. Apples Dipped in Dark Chocolate


Dark choc

To prepare this appetizing-looking treat, slice apples into rounds, dip half of each in dark chocolate (look for 70% or above), then sprinkle the chocolate-covered halves with tasty toppings like chia seeds or freeze-dried berries.

Want to shake things up? Dip another low-sugar fruit, such as strawberries or orange slices, into chocolate.

If you have diabetes, there are many healthful and nutritious sweet treats and snacks that you may enjoy as part of a balanced diet. 

Look for meals that are high in protein, fiber, and heart-healthy fats while being low in sugar.