Hummus is a Mediterranean-style dish made from chickpeas. It is generally healthier than other dips and spreads served with crackers or chips but the Nutrition Facts label of the hummus product you choose should be examined to gain an understanding of its nutritional content. There are several health benefits of hummus, which generally makes it an appropriate choice for people with diabetes. However, if you have diabetes you should work with your physician to confirm how eating it will directly benefit your health.
Calories
The recommended serving size for hummus is 2 tbsp. This amount provides approximately 60 calories. This is not a large amount, given that moderately active adults consume an average of 2,000 calories each day. However, if you consume more than this, you are consuming more calories. Diabetics must monitor their intake of calories each day to maintain a healthy weight. According to the Mayo Clinic, obesity contributes directly to the development or exacerbation of diabetes-related symptoms.
Total Fat
Similarly, people with diabetes must pay special attention to fat intake because overconsumption of fat can contribute to obesity. The Mayo Clinic adds that you should limit your total fat intake to between 44 and 78 g of total fat each day. A serving of hummus contains 3.5 g of total fat. Consuming hummus in the recommended serving size generally does not pose any risk to patients with diabetes.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are risky for people with diabetes because they are metabolized as sugars. This process can cause glucose levels to rise and fall at various times. Without consistent monitoring of your glucose levels, it can often be difficult to treat these fluctuations when necessary. There are only 5 g of carbohydrates in each 2-tbsp. serving of hummus. According to the Mayo Clinic, you can consume between 225 and 325 g of carbohydrates each day. Therefore, this amount of carbohydrates is fairly minimal and should not negatively impact a diabetic's desire to enjoy hummus.
Added Sugar
Generally, hummus does not contain any added sugar. Certain varieties may contain small concentrations that provide flavor; however, most do not.
Protein
The recommended serving size of hummus contains 1 g of protein. Healthy forms of protein, including plant-based proteins like hummus, are beneficial to your overall diet. if you consume an average of 2,000 calories each day, you should consume between 50 and 175 g of protein as a part of your diet, states the Mayo Clinic.
