Snacks are the most exciting meals for people across all age groups. Supermarkets across the world offer a plethora of options for snacks, spoiling the consumer with too many choices. The snacks we pick off the shelves taste delicious, but are often full of sugar and fat and cause our body more harm than good. We tend to buy products just by looking at the package and without paying any heed to the ingredients.

We should be careful, and especially so when someone in the family is suffering from diabetes. Individuals suffering from diabetes have a lot of food restrictions that can help maintain their blood sugar levels, so it is helpful to keep an eye open for healthy snacks for them:

1. Veggies and hummus
Hummus is a middle-eastern dish of pureed chickpeas mixed with some herbs, garlic, and olive oil. It is widely popular for its combination with pita bread and can also be paired with raw vegetables like broccoli, carrots, celery, cauliflower, bell peppers, and olives. Hummus is a good source of protein (3 grams of protein per tablespoon), which is very helpful for controlling blood sugar.

Additionally, both hummus and vegetables are loaded with fiber, minerals, and vitamins. Research has shown that individuals who include an ounce of hummus in one meal at least tend to have at least 4 times lower insulin and blood sugar levels than others.

2. Beef sticks
These are high in protein and low in carbs, making a very good snack for those with diabetes. They are also easy to carry, making them an amazing snack option when on the go. Beef sticks provide almost 6 grams of protein per ounce, helping keep blood sugar under control.

An important point to keep in mind while shopping for beef sticks is to pick grass-fed beef instead of grain-fed beef. The former is high in omega-3 fatty acids, a known beneficial factor for reducing blood sugar levels. However, beef sticks are high in sodium, which could lead to high blood pressure, so it would be wise for those with diabetes to consume this snack in moderation and with proper physician advice.

3. Sliced apples with peanut butter
This snack is a powerhouse of nutrients for those with diabetes, which is why the nutrients in apples may have spurred the famous adage “An apple a day keeps the doctor away”. Apples are packed with vitamins B and C, potassium, and several other nutrients. Apples also contain polyphenol antioxidants, which help protect pancreatic cells from damage that worsens diabetes. Peanut butter is loaded with magnesium, manganese, vitamin E, and more. All these nutrients are known for their role in reducing or stabilizing blood sugar levels.

Both peanut butter and apples have high fiber content. For instance, a medium-sized apple consumed with an ounce of peanut butter provides 8 grams of fiber and helps control blood sugar levels.