What Are Good Diabetic Snacks?

If you are diabetic, snacking is possible as long as you adhere to your diet. Diabetics in general are allowed to have up to 20 to 35 percent of their daily calorie intake from fats, 15 to 20 percent from protein and 45 to 65 percent from carbohydrates. This is important to remember before choosing which snack is best.

Fresh Vegetables

Fresh vegetables are an excellent way to snack healthy. Eating vegetables that are high in vitamins and minerals while still low in carbohydrates are a great way to put a stop to an afternoon craving.

Select vegetables like radishes, carrots, celery, broccoli and cauliflower for snacks. These vegetables are easily prepared and can be carried in a small container for easy access anywhere.

Dips like ranch dressing or sour cream and onion soup mix can also be used to flavor up these vegetables. For an even better snack, add peanut butter to celery for an extra protein boost. Always remember to count the extra carbohydrates, fat grams and protein when adding condiments to vegetables.

Cheese

Cheeses are an acceptable option for diabetic snacking. String cheese comes in easy access packaging and can be slipped into a pocket or purse for snacking during the day.

Mozzarella, cheddar and provolone are delicious cheese choices. These cheeses not only provide protein but also add calcium into the diet.

Fruits

Many fruits should be eaten in moderation. But adding half an apple or half a banana into your diet is alright. Protein can also be added to the fruit by dipping it in peanut butter. Remember to count the additional carbohydrates and fats if peanut butter is added.

Strawberries, blackberries, raspberries and blueberries can also make a great snack. They can be eaten alone or added to a plain low-fat yogurt for even more flavor.

Protein Shakes

Many diabetics find it hard to get enough protein during the day. Adding a protein shake like the EAS Myoplex shake, which is made from whey protein, is a good way to add extra protein into your diet. Eating enough daily protein is important to repair muscles and other body tissues.

Candy

There are many diabetic candies on the market today. If eaten in moderation, these can be a sweet treat. Select products that make use of a safe, no-calorie sweetener such as Splenda and that have total net carbohydrates around 5 g or less. Russell Stover sells a wide variety of chocolate candies that are very similar to many favorite high-calorie, high-sugar alternatives.