Eating healthy seems quite intuitive. But when you start reading and asking questions, it's not so simple. What raises glucose? What are ‘Diabetic’ foods? What should I avoid? Let’s answer these questions, and give you solutions!
There are no foods specifically for people with Diabetes. The big picture is that we should be eating mostly low-fat, natural, high fiber, plant-based foods (both for people with Diabetes, and those seeking to prevent it).
A meal high in saturated fat, together with carbohydrates will make glucose take longer to rise, but more stubborn to fall back down to normal. This will result in glucose staying high for even 4-8 hours after a high fat meal.**
Proteins in a meal may also slow glucose absorption slightly depending on their fat content, so make healthy choices! Individuals using insulin may notice that protein also raises glucose. This is typically only noticeable and crucial for those taking insulin.*
If putting all this together seems confusing, don’t worry, we understand. Your UnifiedCare Dietitians put together a sample menu just for that reason.
Sample Diabetes Friendly Meal Plan
Breakfast (35g carbohydrate (6g fiber), 14g protein, 9g total fat)
1/4 cup dry oats
2 tablespoons natural almond butter (no salt, sugar, or oils added)
