10 Late-Night Snacks for Diabetics

10 Late-Night Snacks for Diabetics

Midnight snacking is not off-limits if you are diabetic, but it is important to be selective and mindful of what you eat. Late-night snacks for people with diabetes are considered harmful because they add extra calories. However, research shows that some midnight snacks can be good for diabetics. As fasting for long hours forces the liver to overproduce glucose, it may raise blood sugar levels. Here are some healthy snacks for people with diabetes to satisfy those midnight cravings:

1. Sugar-free chocolate pudding
Sweet cravings are not unusual in diabetics. If you are craving for something sweet in the middle of the night, a small cup of sugar-free chocolate pudding would be great. Pudding mixes are widely available in stores; choose one that’s sugar-free. You can also make your own healthy chia pudding. Choose unsweetened soymilk to go with it, along with Greek yogurt, chia seeds, unsweetened cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and stevia for sweetness.

2. Hard-boiled eggs
Hard-boiled eggs are the best snack for diabetes. They contain protein to help diabetics maintain their blood sugar levels. They also keep you full for longer.

3. Raw or roasted nuts
Nuts contain carbs and good fats, which ensures that blood sugar levels do not spike. You can have a handful of nuts of your choice, preferably raw or dry-roasted. Stay away from honey-roasted, yogurt-covered, or chocolate-covered nuts as they have high amounts of sugar.

4. Avocados
Avocados contain monounsaturated fatty acids, which benefit diabetics. A study revealed that people with type 2 diabetes consuming monounsaturated fatty acids regularly experienced a remarkable improvement in blood sugar levels. You can have avocado in its raw form or make guacamole, but ensure that you don’t overeat.

5. Raw veggies with dips
If you want something savory, raw vegetables with a dip of your choice would be great. No blood sugar spike for sure! Choose raw baby carrots with hummus for a late-night craving. It has minimal calories and maximum benefits.

6. Beef sticks
If you are looking for something convenient and diabetes-friendly, beef sticks might be what you need. High protein and low-carb content make beef sticks perfect to maintain the blood sugar levels. Consider grass-fed beef for a healthier choice.

7. Whole-grain crackers and cheese
Cracker sandwiches are popular snacks for diabetes as crackers contain carbs and cheese contains fat. You can make your topping using a cheese of your choice. Choose whole-grain crackers for fiber. Some studies prove that fat intake from milk products like cheese may slow digestion, boost hormone production to lower blood glucose, and reduce the level of insulin.

8. Peanut butter
Unsweetened peanut butter is a good snack for diabetes as it is loaded with fiber and energy. You can have a spoonful by itself or as a dip with celery sticks.

9. Greek yogurt
Plain Greek yogurt has more protein than any conventional yogurt. Add a spoonful of raspberries or blueberries to it for sweetness, and enjoy.

10. Cottage cheese
If you just want to have a bite, have cottage cheese. It provides adequate vitamins and essential minerals besides protein and carbs. It is one of the best snacks for diabetes patients. Cottage cheese also helps manage blood sugar levels. You can have it plain or combine it with some fruit for fiber and nutrients.