Diabetic diet plan for low carb diet

Written byListonic team

Updated on Nov 1, 2024

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.

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

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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.

✅ Tip

Focus on high-fiber foods such as leafy greens and nuts, which can help manage blood sugar levels while providing necessary nutrients on a low-carb diet.

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.

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Meal plan suggestion

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

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⚠️ 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.

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