Snacks are essential to keep blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible and to help prevent low blood sugar – especially for those with diabetes. When it comes to snacking, people often think of foods that are high in sugar or fats, but you have plenty of other options. Read on for some fun, healthy ideas for snacks that are low in carbs and will give you the energy you need to get through your day.
- Mozzarella string cheese: This protein-rich snack is great on its own or paired with fresh vegetables or whole wheat crackers.
- Carbs: less than 1 gram
- Popcorn: An alternative to chips or crackers, this whole grain snack is full of fiber and can be eaten with butter, sprinkled with grated parmesan cheese or sweetened with a light drizzle of sugar-free chocolate syrup.
- Carbs: 16 grams per 4 cups
- Cottage cheese and berries: Cottage cheese is high in protein, which promotes feelings of fullness and increases your metabolic rate. When paired with berries, you get the added bonus of beneficial antioxidants.Carbs: 15 grams in 1/2 cup cottage cheese and 1/2 cup berries
- Whole wheat crackers and natural peanut butter: This powerful snack provides protein, fiber and unsaturated fats – a perfect combination.
- Carbs: 15 grams in 3 Triscuits with 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter
- Hard-boiled eggs: Eggs are a complete protein, which is highly absorbable and has all the amino acids our bodies need.
- Carbs: less than 1 gram (and more than 6 grams of protein)
- Edemame: Rich in healthy fiber, soy protein, antioxidants and vitamin K, this snack also helps prevent the risk of heart disease.
- Carbs: 15 grams per cup (and 8 grams of fiber)
- Pear with a handful of almonds: Pears are rich in essential antioxidants and fiber. Almonds contain healthy fats, fiber, protein, magnesium and vitamin E, and can help to reduce hunger and promote weight loss.
- 16 grams in small Asian pear and 12 almonds
- Sugar-free Jello: This fun, low calorie snack is naturally fat free and delicious day or night.
- Carbs: 4 grams in single serving of sugar-free Jello with 4 tablespoons whipped topping
- Hummus and veggies: This plant-based snack is a great replacement for potato chips and dip. Not only is hummus delicious, but it is also versatile, packed with nutrients and has been linked to many health benefits. Choose your favorite seasonal vegetables and get dipping!
- Carbs: 15 grams in 3 tablespoons of hummus with 4 baby carrots and 4 small celery sticks
- Plain yogurt: This nutrient-dense option makes a great breakfast or easy snack. If unsweetened and Greek-style, plain yogurt is low in carbohydrates and high in protein, which means it won’t cause blood sugar spikes in people with diabetes, unlike some other sources of carbohydrates.
- Carbs: 12 grams in 6 ounces of plain yogurt
- Sugar-free pudding: If you’re craving something sweet, sugar-free pudding is a low-carb dessert option that won’t interfere with blood sugar levels.
- Carbs: 4-14 grams (depending on brand) in single serving
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