Home > Diet plans

Diabetic diet plan for low carb diet

For those combining diabetic management with a low carb approach, this diet minimizes sugars and starches to help control blood sugar levels. You’ll focus on healthy fats, lean proteins, and lots of leafy greens and non-starchy vegetables. It’s a straightforward strategy to keep your glucose in check while satisfying your appetite.

Get grocery list
Diabetic diet plan for low carb diet photo cover

Diet plan grocery list

  • Fresh spinach
  • Broccoli
  • Cauliflower
  • Zucchini
  • Bell peppers
  • Avocado
  • Mushrooms
  • Cucumber
  • Green beans
  • Asparagus
  • Chicken breast

  • Turkey breast
  • Lean beef
  • Pork loin
  • Salmon
  • Tuna
  • Eggs
  • Cheddar cheese
  • Greek yogurt
  • Almonds
  • Walnuts
  • Pecans

  • Olive oil
  • Coconut oil
  • Butter
  • Unsweetened almond milk
  • Whole flaxseeds
  • Chia seeds
  • Hemp seeds
  • Tofu
  • Tempeh
  • Shirataki noodles
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder

Save this list
Share this list
Article Reviewed
• Written by our editorial team.
• Published on April 29, 2024.
• Updated on August 8, 2024.

Diet plan overview

The diabetic diet plan for low carb diet minimizes carbohydrate intake to control blood sugar spikes. It emphasizes foods high in protein and healthy fats, such as lean meats, fish, and nuts, to keep you feeling full and energized. Low-carb vegetables like leafy greens are essential to this diet, providing necessary nutrients without excess sugars.

This approach can be particularly effective for managing type 2 diabetes, as it helps reduce reliance on insulin. It's crucial, however, to ensure you're getting enough fiber and vitamins from other sources to maintain a balanced diet.

Diabetic diet plan for low carb diet exemplary product

Foods to eat

  • Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and other low-carb vegetables that are also high in vitamins and minerals.
  • Lean Proteins: Chicken breast, turkey, and fish to provide essential amino acids without excess carbs.
  • Healthy Fats: Avocado, olive oil, and coconut oil to help with satiety and blood sugar control.
  • Nuts and Seeds: A handful of nuts or seeds as a snack can help maintain blood sugar levels.
  • Low-Carb Fruits: Berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries in moderation.
quote icon

Flaxseed will keep that bowel on the move.

Bernard Jensen, D.C., PhD

Foods not to eat

  • Starchy Vegetables: Potatoes, corn, and peas which are high in carbohydrates.
  • Sugary Beverages: Soda, fruit juices, and sweetened teas that can cause a quick spike in blood sugar.
  • Grains: Pasta, rice, and breads unless specifically marked as low-carb.
  • High-Sugar Foods: Sweets, desserts, and any food items high in added sugars.
  • Certain Dairy Products: Milk and yogurts that contain high levels of lactose (milk sugar).

Main benefits

The diabetic diet plan for low carb diet reduces carbohydrate intake to control blood sugar spikes and improve glycemic control. By focusing on healthy fats and proteins, it also helps in sustaining energy levels throughout the day. This approach can be particularly effective for weight management and metabolic health in diabetics.

Diabetic diet plan for low carb diet graph

📊 Around 12% of the US population has diabetes (Source)

How to budget on this diet plan

For those on a diabetic low-carb diet, prioritize high-quality, nutrient-dense foods like lean meats, fish, and low-carb vegetables such as broccoli and spinach. Buying these items in bulk or from local farmers' markets can help manage expenses. Utilize low-carb alternatives like cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to add variety without breaking the bank.

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Get grocery list
picture showing a phone with a shopping list

7-Day Meal Plan for Diabetic Low Carb Diet

Day 1

  • Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with spinach, mushrooms, and cheddar cheese
  • Lunch: Grilled chicken breast salad with avocado, bell peppers, and olive oil dressing
  • Dinner: Pan-seared salmon with steamed broccoli and cauliflower
  • Snack: A handful of almonds and walnuts

Day 2

  • Breakfast: Greek yogurt with chia seeds and crushed pecans
  • Lunch: Turkey breast wraps using lettuce as the wrap, filled with sliced cucumbers and bell peppers
  • Dinner: Stir-fried beef with zucchini and mushrooms in coconut oil
  • Snack: Slices of avocado and a spoon of hemp seeds

Day 3

  • Breakfast: Omelette with asparagus, green beans, and shredded cheddar
  • Lunch: Tofu stir-fry with a mix of fresh spinach, bell peppers, and olive oil
  • Dinner: Grilled pork loin with roasted cauliflower and a side of steamed asparagus
  • Snack: Greek yogurt blended with unsweetened cocoa powder and a sprinkle of flaxseeds

Day 4

  • Breakfast: Smoothie made with unsweetened almond milk, spinach, and a tablespoon of flaxseeds
  • Lunch: Grilled salmon salad with mixed greens (spinach, cucumber, and avocado) dressed with olive oil
  • Dinner: Baked chicken breast with a side of sautéed green beans and bell peppers
  • Snack: A handful of pecans and a few slices of cheese

Day 5

  • Breakfast: Chia pudding made with unsweetened almond milk, topped with sliced almonds
  • Lunch: Beef stir-fry with broccoli and shirataki noodles
  • Dinner: Baked turkey breast with steamed Brussels sprouts and mushrooms
  • Snack: Cucumber slices with a dollop of Greek yogurt

Day 6

  • Breakfast: Eggs poached in avocado halves, sprinkled with cheddar cheese
  • Lunch: Shirataki noodle salad with sautéed tofu, cucumber, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds
  • Dinner: Grilled pork loin with roasted bell peppers and zucchini
  • Snack: A small bowl of mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)

Day 7

  • Breakfast: Pancakes made from almond meal, eggs, and unsweetened almond milk, served with a butter topping
  • Lunch: Grilled chicken Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, parmesan cheese, and a creamy yogurt dressing
  • Dinner: Pan-seared tuna with a side of steamed asparagus and avocado slices
  • Snack: Tempeh sticks marinated in olive oil and herbs

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Get grocery list
picture showing a phone with a shopping list
⚠️ Keep in mind

As with any dietary change, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before changing your dietary habits.