Snacking is often associated with sweet and salty foods, often containing high amounts of fat. Living with diabetes requires looking at foods in a different light. The Mayo Clinic advises that, as a diabetic, consider the impact the snack you choose will have on the level of glucose, or sugar, in the blood. Safe diabetic snacks can be another way to fit in extra fiber, fruits or vegetables.
5 Grams or Less
The American Diabetes Association divides snacks into categories depending on the carbohydrate value of the food. It cautions that when snacking, always count the carbs and measure the portions. Healthy snack foods under 5 grams of carbohydrates may include one cup of light popcorn, five baby carrots, half a cup of sugar-free gelatin, one cup of salad with cucumbers and an oil and vinegar dressing, a sugar-free Popsicle or one hardboiled egg.
10 to 20 Grams
Mindless eating, especially while reading, watching TV or driving is not recommended by The American Diabetes Association. Snacking should always be added to the daily food count and overall menu plan. Healthy snacks between 10 and 20 carbs may include three cups of light popcorn, two rice cakes with a tablespoon of peanut butter, one apple or orange, one cup of chicken noodle or vegetable soup, half a cup of nuts or half a turkey sandwich made with two ounces of turkey on a slice of whole wheat bread with mustard.
30 Grams
Keeping healthy foods in the cupboard to snack on ensures healthy choices. The American Diabetes Association also advises to grocery shop on a full stomach to help avoid temptation. Healthy snacks over 30 grams are especially recommended before exercising. Included are a banana with one tablespoon of peanut butter, six ounces of light yogurt with 3/4 cups of berries, an English muffin with one teaspoon of low-fat margarine or half a peanut butter sandwich on a slice of whole wheat bread with one tablespoon of peanut butter with a cup of milk.
