Asian meal plan for diabetics

Written byListonic team

Updated on Nov 22, 2024

The Asian meal plan for diabetics is tailored to maintain stable blood sugar levels. It includes low-glycemic-index foods like leafy greens, non-starchy vegetables, and whole grains. Lean proteins and healthy fats are essential to this plan, and traditional Asian spices add flavor without adding sugar or excessive carbs.

Meal plan grocery list

Meats

Chicken breast

Fish & seafood

Fish

Shrimp

Dairy & eggs

Eggs

Plant based

Tofu

Snacks & sweets

Almonds

Walnuts

Fresh grocery

Apples

Avocado

Asparagus

Bell peppers

Spinach

Mushrooms

Cucumber

Lettuce

Mint

Carrots

Tomatoes

Onions

Dry goods

Vermicelli

Quinoa

Brown rice

Cauliflower rice

Whole grain bread

Meal plan overview

Manage diabetes with the Asian meal plan for diabetics. Tailored for blood sugar control, this plan incorporates low-glycemic Asian ingredients and cooking methods.

Featuring balanced meals with vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, it’s a diabetic-friendly approach to Asian cuisine.

Asian meal plan for diabetics exemplary product

Foods to eat

Low-Glycemic Vegetables: Leafy greens, peppers, and eggplants.
Lean Proteins: Grilled or steamed fish, skinless chicken, tofu, and tempeh.
Fiber-Rich Carbs: Brown rice, whole grain noodles, and barley.
Healthy Fats: Nuts, seeds, and olive oil for cooking.
Low-Sugar Fruits: Berries, kiwi, and papaya in moderation.
Legumes: Beans, lentils, and chickpeas for plant-based protein and fiber.
Herbal Teas: Green tea and other herbal infusions without added sugar.
Water: Staying hydrated is key for blood sugar control.

✅Tip

Choose whole grains like brown rice and quinoa over refined grains to help stabilize blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.

Foods not to eat

Sugary Sweets: Asian pastries, sweet buns, and candies.
Refined Carbs: White rice, white bread, and other high-glycemic foods.
Fried Foods: Deep-fried items that are high in unhealthy fats.
High-Sodium Sauces: Excessive soy sauce, oyster sauce, and pre-made marinades.
Sugary Beverages: Sweetened teas, sodas, and juices.
Fatty Meats: Limit intake of pork belly, duck, and other high-fat meats.
Processed Snacks: Chips and other high-carb, low-nutrient snacks.
Alcohol: Can affect blood sugar levels.

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Main benefits

The Asian meal plan for diabetics is designed to help maintain stable blood sugar levels. It incorporates low-glycemic-index foods like leafy greens, non-starchy vegetables, and whole grains. Lean protein sources and healthy fats are included to balance meals. Traditional Asian spices that aid in blood sugar regulation are used for flavoring, making this diet both healthful and delicious for those managing diabetes.

Recommended nutrient breakdown

Protein: 20%

Fat: 25%

Carbs: 50%

Fiber: 3%

Other: 2%

How to budget on this meal plan

Purchase staples like tofu, quinoa, and brown rice in bulk. Opt for lean proteins like chicken breast and grilled fish, which can be more cost-effective when bought on sale. Focus on fresh fruits and vegetables, and consider buying them in season for better prices. Homemade sauces and dressings can be made more economically and tailored to your dietary needs.

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Extra tips

These Asian snacks are great for stabilizing blood sugar:

Baked tofu cubes
Stir-fried mixed vegetables
Almond and walnut mix
Fresh berries with a dollop of Greek yogurt
Whole grain rice cakes
Grilled salmon sushi
Vegetable soup with lean chicken

For diabetics on an Asian diet, water is paramount. Green tea can help with blood sugar control, and unsweetened black tea offers a zero-calorie option. Barley tea, known for its health properties, and herbal teas like chamomile, which can aid in relaxation, are also great choices.

For diabetics following an Asian diet, it's important to manage carbohydrate intake and focus on high-fiber foods to regulate blood sugar levels. Brown rice and soba noodles are good alternatives to white rice and provide more fiber. Foods like edamame and chickpeas offer both protein and fiber, which can help stabilize blood sugar levels. Additionally, fatty fish and chia seeds contribute healthy fats beneficial for heart health.

Meal plan suggestion

Day 1

Breakfast: Vegetable Miso Soup with Tofu (calories: 200, carbs: 15g, protein: 10g, fat: 6g)
Lunch: Grilled Chicken Salad with Mixed Greens and a Sesame Dressing (calories: 350, carbs: 20g, protein: 25g, fat: 15g)
Snack: A handful of Almonds (calories: 100, carbs: 5g, protein: 4g, fat: 9g)
Dinner: Stir-fried Tofu with Broccoli and Bell Peppers over Brown Rice (calories: 400, carbs: 40g, protein: 20g, fat: 15g)

Day 2

Breakfast: Scrambled Eggs with Spinach and Mushrooms (calories: 250, carbs: 10g, protein: 15g, fat: 12g)
Lunch: Thai-style Grilled Fish with a side of Stir-Fried Mixed Vegetables (calories: 350, carbs: 25g, protein: 30g, fat: 12g)
Snack: Greek Yogurt with a handful of Berries (calories: 120, carbs: 15g, protein: 10g, fat: 4g)
Dinner: Vegetable Curry with Chickpeas served over Cauliflower Rice (calories: 400, carbs: 35g, protein: 15g, fat: 18g)

Day 3

Breakfast: Oatmeal with Almond Milk, topped with Chopped Nuts and Cinnamon (calories: 300, carbs: 35g, protein: 10g, fat: 10g)
Lunch: Sushi Rolls with Brown Rice, Cucumber, Avocado, and Carrot (calories: 350, carbs: 40g, protein: 12g, fat: 10g)
Snack: Edamame Beans (calories: 100, carbs: 8g, protein: 8g, fat: 4g)
Dinner: Korean Bibimbap with Brown Rice, Sauteed Vegetables, and a Fried Egg (calories: 400, carbs: 45g, protein: 15g, fat: 15g)

Day 4

Breakfast: Whole Grain Toast with Avocado (calories: 300, carbs: 30g, protein: 8g, fat: 15g)
Lunch: Vietnamese Spring Rolls with Shrimp, Lettuce, Mint, and Vermicelli (calories: 350, carbs: 30g, protein: 20g, fat: 10g)
Snack: A small Apple and a handful of Walnuts (calories: 150, carbs: 20g, protein: 4g, fat: 8g)
Dinner: Japanese-style Grilled Salmon with Steamed Asparagus (calories: 400, carbs: 25g, protein: 30g, fat: 18g)

Day 5

Breakfast: Veggie Omelette with Onions, Tomatoes, and Bell Peppers (calories: 250, carbs: 10g, protein: 15g, fat: 12g)
Lunch: Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry over Quinoa (calories: 350, carbs: 35g, protein: 25g, fat: 10g)
Snack: Cucumber Slices with Hummus (calories: 100, carbs: 10g, protein: 4g, fat: 5g)
Dinner: Thai Green Curry with Tofu and Mixed Vegetables (calories: 400, carbs: 30g, protein: 20g, fat: 20g)

Day 6

Breakfast: Chia Seed Pudding made with Almond Milk and topped with a few Berries (calories: 250, carbs: 25g, protein: 6g, fat: 10g)
Lunch: Indian-style Lentil Dal with Spinach served with Cauliflower Rice (calories: 350, carbs: 40g, protein: 15g, fat: 10g)
Snack: A small Banana (calories: 90, carbs: 23g, protein: 1g, fat: 0g)
Dinner: Baked Eggplant with Tomato Sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan Cheese (calories: 400, carbs: 35g, protein: 12g, fat: 18g)

Day 7

Breakfast: Smoothie with Spinach, Almond Milk, a scoop of Protein Powder, and Flaxseeds (calories: 300, carbs: 25g, protein: 20g, fat: 10g)
Lunch: Mixed Vegetable Salad with Grilled Tofu and Sesame Dressing (calories: 350, carbs: 30g, protein: 15g, fat: 15g)
Snack: A handful of Mixed Nuts (calories: 180, carbs: 10g, protein: 5g, fat: 15g)
Dinner: Stir-Fried Shrimp with Bell Peppers and Snow Peas over Cauliflower Rice (calories: 400, carbs: 25g, protein: 30g, fat: 20g)

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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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