Individuals trying to lose weight are not the only ones who benefit from low-carb dieting. Those with type II diabetes may also find cutting back on carbs helps to control their overall sugar intake. Researchers from Duke University found that a low-carbohydrate diet "improved glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes such that diabetes medications were discontinued or reduced in most participants." The following is a list of diabetic-friendly foods that are also low in carbohydrates.
Breakfast
The obvious low-carb breakfast items include eggs, omelets, bacon, sausage, ham and cheese. However, many manufacturers now offer traditionally sweet items such as yogurt and pudding in low-carb or sugar-free products. Look for products labeled low-carb, "carb-control" or "no sugar added." The key to managing type II diabetes is controlling blood sugar levels, also known as glycemic control. Certain complex carbohydrates, although high in overall carbs, take longer to break down into simple sugars, and therefore help maintain normal blood sugar levels. These "low-glycemic" carbs include unsweetened oatmeal, whole grain breads and whole grain cereals.
Lunch
Protein items such as grilled chicken, fish, eggs, ground beef, cottage cheese and other cheeses are naturally low in carbohydrates. These foods are the basis of most low carb diets. This does not mean that you cannot still enjoy some of your favorite foods. Try an open-faced or "bunless" hamburger or sandwich to cut back on carbohydrates. If having bread with lunch, make sure it is whole grain, and does not contain sweeteners such as high-fructose corn syrup. Salads are a great way to get a healthy serving of vegetables, and can be topped with protein-rich foods such as hard-boiled eggs, chicken, ham, turkey, nuts and seeds. Avoid dressings with a lot of carbs or sugar. Ranch and blue cheese are examples of low-carb dressings.
Dinner
When most people think of a low-carb diet, they picture a nice big juicy steak. This is a typical dinner for those counting carbs. Broiled fish, baked chicken, turkey, ham and even a meaty chili are great low-carb meals. Be sure to include plenty of vitamin rich vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, spinach, zucchini, cucumber, bell peppers and tomatoes. Try stir-fried chicken and broccoli, or pepper steak, with a small portion of brown rice. Limit starchy vegetables such as potatoes, yams and hard squashes, which are high in carbohydrates. Dessert may provide the most challenge when cutting carbs, but there are low-carb options. Cheesecakes can be made with sugar substitutes such as Splenda, or natural sweeteners like stevia.
