Receiving a diagnosis of diabetes may seem like the end of enjoying your favorite ice cream treats. Fortunately, many ice creams and ice cream substitutes are available that are specifically designed for individuals with diabetes. In addition, you may be able to occasionally eat some ordinary ice cream in small quantities if you plan properly. Regardless of what frozen treat you choose, you should check with your doctor before eating it to be certain that it is safe for you.
Diabetes-Friendly Ice Cream
In the frozen dessert aisle of most grocery stores, you can find a selection of specifically formulated ice cream for individuals with diabetes. Most major ice cream manufacturers offer some version of these types of ice cream, and you can be sure that you will not be sacrificing flavor or texture for their lowered sugar and carbohydrate count. Diabetes-friendly ice cream is available in classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate, as well as in more unique combo-type flavors.
Low-Carb Options
Ice cream bars and toppings are also available in low-carb varieties that, when eaten in proper portion sizes, are ideal for diabetics. For example, you can find diabetes-friendly vanilla ice cream bars covered in chocolate and nuts, low-carb ice cream sandwiches and similar products. These specialty treats can usually be found next to their regular counterparts in the frozen section of most grocery stores.
Alternatives
Diabetics looking for ice cream with both a lower sugar count and a better nutritional profile can try sorbets. Similar in texture to ice cream, sorbets are made with sweetened water and flavored with fruit. Many are created with natural ingredients and generally have a much lower sugar content than other ice cream. Because sorbets are not necessarily specifically designed to be low carb or diabetic, you should carefully examine the nutritional information of each individual sorbet brand before eating it. Certain varieties of frozen yogurt may also work well if you have diabetes.
Homemade
Adventurous individuals may want to try making their own diabetes-friendly ice cream. A variety of recipes and flavors for acceptable options for diabetics are readily available both online and in print. Experiment with flavors and ingredients to create a dessert that perfectly matches your taste.
Considerations
Regardless of what type of ice cream or ice cream substitute you choose to eat, you should always test your blood glucose levels before eating it. Then, even if you have properly modified your diet and selected a diabetes-friendly product, you should continue to test your blood glucose for six hours after eating it to monitor for any changes. If you do notice any changes in your blood glucose level, talk to your doctor about any necessary adjustments to your diet, insulin dose or other factors.
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