Many cereals are high in carbohydrates, which can cause blood glucose levels to rise. For this reason, it is advisable that people living with diabetes eat cereal and other high carb foods, such as pasta, less frequently.
The Best Breakfast Cereal Choice for Those with Diabetes
The best breakfast cereal you can eat is made up of whole grains that include oatmeal, barley, brown rice, wild rice, buckwheat, millet, or rye. Enjoy them individually or blended. Some companies sell hot cereal mixes that include five or more grain blends.
If you have type 2 diabetes breakfast cereals made with wholegrains can help to manage blood glucose levels, they release glucose more slowly as they are low GI. Weetabix, Oatibix and Shredded Wheat can make for good choices.
“My favorite breakfast cereal recommendation for people with diabetes is a high-fiber, low-sugar option such as bran flakes,” says Palinski-Wade. With 5 grams of fiber per serving, this type of cereal contains 19 grams of net carbs per ¾ cup serving, making it lower in carbohydrates than many breakfast cereals.
As the glycemic index of corn flakes is extremely high, they are not good for diabetics. Kellogg's corn flakes are processed, specifically high GI food with excess sugar content. Side effects may lead to higher insulin levels and risks of developing type 2 diabetes.
Porridge oats or the instant variety are both fine - just avoid those with added free sugars like honey and golden syrup. Wheat biscuits, shredded wheat or muesli (with no added sugar) are also great alternatives. For sweetness, add chopped fruit.
The American Diabetes Association recommends that people with diabetes consume fruit in moderation, including bananas. This doesn't mean you should ignore those carbohydrates, but you should consider how many carbs you need daily.
While there are some extra things to consider, ice cream can be included in a healthy meal pattern even if you have diabetes. It's best to eat ice cream in moderation and to choose an option with lower saturated fat, lower carbs and no or low added sugar.
Switching to lower-fat milk, such as semi-skimmed milk (green top) from whole milk (blue top), which contains the most fat, is a good start. To make even more of a difference, try 1 per cent fat milk (orange top) or even better skimmed milk (red top).
Generally speaking, yes, it's OK to eat honey if you have diabetes. But you should consume it in moderation. Although honey has a lower glycemic index (GI) than table sugar, it still contains sugar. And any type of sugar will raise your blood glucose levels.
Many cereals are high in carbohydrates, which can cause blood glucose levels to rise. For this reason, it is advisable that people living with diabetes eat cereal and other high carb foods, such as pasta, less frequently.
Cheese can be included in any diet because it contains protein, vitamins and minerals, and healthy fats. Cheese can be a great addition to a type 2 diabetes diet as long as it is consumed in moderation.
Steel-cut oats are best for type 2 diabetes because they are the least-processed version of oat groats. “Rolled oats have a higher GI than steel-cut oats as they actually have been partially cooked, making them increase your blood sugar faster,” says Kaufman.
Don't fret; you can still enjoy a slice of your favorite toast in the morning. As long as you're keeping your blood sugar levels in mind, experts say there's nothing wrong with eating bread when you have diabetes.
High in fiber and protein, beans are digested slowly in your body, making them great for managing blood glucose levels in a type 2 diabetes diet. Just ¼ cup of any type of beans will provide as much protein as 1 ounce (oz) of a meat protein equivalent, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
Research has shown that peanuts can help control blood sugar in both healthy individuals and those with type 2 diabetes. Peanuts and peanut butter have even been shown to help lessen the spike in blood sugar when paired with high-carbohydrate or high-GL foods.
Protein-rich foods like eggs can play an important role in regulating blood sugar levels for people with diabetes. Plus, eggs contain many essential vitamins and minerals, and have just 80 calories each.
Almonds and almond milk are good options for people with diabetes. Whole almond nuts, in particular, appear to provide several benefits, including superior blood sugar control, better weight management, and improved heart health. They are also a great source of magnesium.
Yes – if you choose wisely and in moderation. When choosing menu items at McDonald's for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, pay attention to nutritional values. Count those carbs and serving limits. Carbohydrates have the potential to affect your blood sugar levels faster than fats or proteins.