When managing diabetes, selecting snacks with a low glycemic index (GI) can be an effective way to maintain stable blood sugar levels while satisfying cravings. Here are 19 dietitian-recommended low glycemic snacks that are both delicious and nutritious:
-
Hummus and Vegetable Sticks: Crunchy carrots, cucumber, and bell peppers paired with creamy hummus make for a satisfying, fibre-rich snack.
-
Greek Yoghurt with Berries: A serving of natural Greek yoghurt topped with a handful of fresh berries provides protein and antioxidants, without causing spikes in blood sugar.
-
Nuts and Seeds: A small handful of mixed nuts or seeds, such as almonds or pumpkin seeds, offers healthy fats and protein.
-
Wholegrain Rice Cakes with Avocado: Spread ripe avocado on wholegrain rice cakes for a creamy, nutrient-dense snack.
-
Cottage Cheese with Sliced Peaches: This combination provides protein and the natural sweetness of fruit while keeping the GI low.
-
Boiled Eggs: Simple yet satisfying, boiled eggs are a great source of protein and healthy fats.
-
Edamame: Steamed edamame, sprinkled with sea salt, delivers both protein and fibre in a tasty, snackable form.
-
Chia Seed Pudding: Chia seeds soaked in almond milk and topped with a few fresh berries create a delightful and filling treat.
-
Dark Chocolate: A square or two of dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) can satisfy sweet tooth cravings without a significant impact on blood sugar.
-
Apple Slices with Nut Butter: Thinly sliced apples dipped in unsweetened nut butter provide a crunchy, sweet, and satisfying snack.
-
Oven-Roasted Chickpeas: Seasoned and roasted chickpeas are a crunchy, high-fibre snack that can be customised with various herbs and spices.
-
Olives: A handful of olives offers healthy fats and a unique flavour profile that can add variety to snack time.
-
Celery Sticks with Cream Cheese: The crispness of celery combined with the richness of cream cheese makes for a refreshing and satisfying snack.
-
Pumpkin Seeds: Roasted pumpkin seeds are a tasty option that is high in magnesium and zinc.
-
Zucchini Chips: Homemade zucchini chips, baked until crispy, can provide a crunchy alternative to conventional crisps.
-
Feta and Cherry Tomatoes: A small bowl of feta cheese with cherry tomatoes creates a Mediterranean-inspired snack that's rich in flavour.
-
Avocado Toast on Wholegrain Bread: A slice of wholegrain bread topped with mashed avocado offers healthy fats and complex carbohydrates.
-
Power Balls: Energy balls made from oats, nuts, and seeds, blended with a hint of honey and rolled into bite-sized pieces, are a great on-the-go snack.
- Cucumber Slices with Tzatziki: Refreshing cucumber slices dipped in tzatziki sauce not only keep the GI low but also provide a tangy, satisfying flavour.
Incorporating these low GI snacks into your diet can help maintain blood sugar control while also keeping your taste buds happy. Always remember to consult with a healthcare professional or dietitian for personalised dietary advice.
-

