Diabetes is a significant health concern worldwide, affecting millions of people.
Living with diabetes doesn't mean you have to miss out on delicious food. It's all about maintaining a balanced diet and keeping your blood sugar levels in check. At Hungry Squirrel, we're committed to promoting healthy eating and providing healthier options to improve your life.
What makes a good meal plan?
A well-structured meal plan takes into account your goals, tastes, lifestyle, and any medicines you may be taking. A few pointers for a diabetic-friendly meal plan include:
Incorporate more non-starchy vegetables:
These include broccoli, spinach, and green beans, which are low in carbs and high in fiber.
Limit added sugars and refined grains:
Opt for whole grains over white bread, rice, and pasta with less than 2 grams of fiber per serving.
Prioritize whole foods: Whole foods are less processed and thus retain more of their nutrients.
Remember, carbohydrates raise your blood sugar levels. The rate at which they do so depends on what the food is and what you eat with it. For instance, drinking fruit juice raises blood sugar faster than eating whole fruit. Consuming carbs with protein, fat, or fiber can slow down how quickly your blood sugar rises.
Regular, balanced meals are key
To avoid high or low blood sugar levels, plan for regular, balanced meals. Eating about the same amount of carbs at each meal can be helpful. Tools like carb counting and the plate method can make meal planning easier.
Counting Carbs
Keeping track of how many carbs you eat and setting a limit for each meal can help keep your blood sugar levels in your target range. Consult with your doctor or a registered dietitian to determine how many carbs you should be consuming daily.
The Plate Method
The plate method is a simple, visual way to ensure you get enough non-starchy vegetables and lean protein, while limiting higher-carb foods.
Here's how it works:
- Fill half of a 9-inch dinner plate with non-starchy vegetables.
- Fill one quarter with a lean protein.
- Fill one quarter with carb foods.
- Choose water or a low-calorie drink like unsweetened iced tea to accompany your meal.
Introducing Hungry Squirrel Sauces and Dressings
To make your meals even more flavorful, Hungry Squirrel offers a gourmet line of keto-friendly, low-glycemic sauces. With no-added sugar, they're specifically crafted to let individuals with dietary needs enjoy the foods they love without compromising their well-being.
At Hungry Squirrel, we believe that a balanced diet is key to managing diabetes and leading a healthy, active life. Let's embark on this journey together!
International Diabetes Foundation. (n.d.). Facts and Figures. International Diabetes Foundation, https://idf.org/about-diabetes/diabetes-facts-figures/