Healthy Recipes to Challenge Diabetes this Season

In order to keep your blood sugar under control, you ideally want to pick recipes that are lower in carbohydrates and higher in protein, healthy fats, and fiber.

Here are 6 recipes to try, straight from nutritionists and diabetes experts.

1. Cauliflower-based bowls

You've probably encountered cauliflower rice by now, which is a nice fiber-rich, low-carb choice that provides a rice-like texture in a variety of dishes. It takes on the flavor of whatever you serve it with, making it an incredibly versatile meal base.

Why it works:

"As an alternative to brown rice, cauliflower rice is perfect for bowl-type meals,"

"This dish is also great for people with type 2 diabetes, thanks to the high omega-3 content of salmon. And with ample protein (from the salmon, veggies, and feta cheese), this meal is great for appetite control and keeping you satisfied and fullTrusted Source."

2. A make-ahead breakfast option

Typical breakfast options like cereal, bagels, muffins, and even granola bars often aren't diabetes-friendly because of their refined sugar and starch content, which can lead to unstable blood sugar levels.

Why it works:

"Eggs are a protein-filled option for breakfast… but what if you don't have time to whip them up in the morning? This cheesy crustless quiche is the perfect solution,"

. "Leaving off the traditional pie crust is not only a way to reduce carb count. It also makes it effortless to throw together ahead of time and reheat throughout the week."

Plus, recent research suggests that a low-carb diet paired with moderate fat intake can be especially effective at improving glycemic control. It may even help people with diabetes decrease their medication. "With less than 5 grams of net carbohydrates (that's total carbs minus fiber) and some fat from the delicious combination of cheese, this is a great way to start off that journey," Villeneuve tells Healthline.

As a bonus, the asparagus adds a boost of fiber and is a natural anti-inflammatoryTrusted Source. This may help reduce other chronic conditions related to diabetes, like heart disease and arthritis,

3. Anything-but-boring salad with nuts

Nuts add excitement and flavor to salads, and have been shownTrusted Source to help reduce blood sugar and insulin levels, which makes them a wonderful addition to any diabetes-friendly recipe.

Why it works:

"With 6 grams of carbs per serving, this salad is a great addition to any meal or snack,"

"Additionally, both pistachios and cucumbers are available year-round, so it's an easy way to get more fiber and plant-based protein. I love to recommend pistachios because they are nutrient-dense, are one of the highest in protein among snack nuts, and nearly 90 percent of the fat from pistachios are the better-for-you unsaturated type."

4. A main course with plant-based protein

A meatless meal is an ideal way to get a little plant-based protein — like lentils — into your diet. Plus, researchTrusted Source suggests that swapping out some animal-based proteins for plant-based ones may help increase glycemic control in people with diabetes.

Why it works:

"Legumes (beans, peas, and lentils) have an exceptionally low glycemic index, so adding them to any meal helps to slow the rate that the glucose of the meal is absorbed into the bloodstream,"

Legumes also have what's called the 'second meal effect.' This means that their beneficial effects on blood glucose control last for hours after the meal — or even into the next day. "So this lentil stew will not only taste amazing, but you'll have steady numbers all day after you eat it," they say. "Does it get any better than that?!"

5. Fried rice that's light on carbs

Healthy twists on takeout staples make sticking to a diabetes-friendly diet a lot easier. While people with diabetes don't need to avoid carbohydrates completely, recipes that are balanced between macronutrients (protein, fat, and carbs) are best.

Why it works:

"This healthy meal is great for people who have diabetes because when pairing high-fiber carbohydrates with protein, there will be less impact on blood sugar,"

"The American Diabetes Association recommends having 2 to 3 servings of fish or shellfish a week. Shrimp is protein-rich, has little effect on blood sugar, and is a great source of selenium, B-12, and phosphorus." Not a fan of shrimp? Simply swap it out for another protein such as chicken, or try a vegetarian option by adding lentils.

6. A low-sugar sweet treat

Dessert doesn't have to be packed with sugar, which can cause blood glucose swings. And yes, chocolate can be part of a healthy diabetes-friendly diet — as long as it's enjoyed in moderation, according to the American Diabetes Association.

Here is a sweet treat option for you

High Fiber Greek Yogurt Ice Cream Sandwich

Servings: 2

Ingredients

1 Flatout 5 Grain Flax Foldit

2 tbsp mini dark chocolate chips

1 tsp mini dark chocolate chips

1/2 cup low fat vanilla Greek yogurt

Instructions

Cut the Flatout Foldit as it's most narrow part to make two even pieces and place onto a sheet of wax paper.

Place two tablespoons of the mini dark chocolate chips in a small bowl and microwave at 30 second intervals until melted.

Spread the melted chocolate evenly over each Flatout Foldit piece until the surface has been covered. Place the pieces in the refrigerator and allow chocolate to harden. Once the chocolate has hardened, remove from the refrigerator.

Spread ½ cup of vanilla Greek yogurt evenly over the top of one chocolate covered piece

Sprinkle the remaining one teaspoon of mini chocolate chips on top of the yogurt.

Place the remaining chocolate covered Flatout Foldit on top of the yogurt, with the chocolate side facing up. Place sandwich into freezer and allow yogurt to harden.

Once yogurt has frozen, slice the sandwich in half and serve

Recipe Notes

Nutrition Facts (per serving): Calories: 159 Carbohydrates: 22gm Fiber: 3.5gm Sugar: 12gm Protein: 9gm Fat: 6 gm Saturated Fat: 2.5gm Trans Fat: 0gm Cholesterol: 0mg Sodium: 197mg

Why it works:

"Instead of enjoying a sugar-laden ice cream on a hot day, this healthy swap packs all the same great taste with significantly less sugar, along with a good source of protein and fiber,"

"The combination of the protein and fiber help to slow the rise of blood glucose levels after eating while also helping you to feel more satisfied. The reduced fat and calorie content of this recipe compared to the traditional ice cream sandwich is also perfect for the individual with diabetes who is focused on weight management,"

Time to dig in — without risking a blood sugar spike.