High-protein meal plan for diabetics
The High-Protein meal plan for diabetics is designed to stabilize blood sugar levels while providing adequate protein. It includes lean meats, fish, eggs, and plant-based proteins, combined with low-glycemic fruits and vegetables. This plan helps in maintaining stable blood sugar levels and provides sustained energy, crucial for managing blood sugar spikes.
Meal plan grocery list
Eggs
Spinach
Mushrooms
Chicken breast
Mixed greens
Avocado
Olive oil
Greek yogurt
Chia seeds
Tofu
Cottage cheese
Cucumber
Quinoa
Black beans
Bell peppers
Hummus
Carrot sticks
Shrimp
Lemons
Almond milk
Lentils
Whole grain bread
Peanut butter
Apples
Meal plan overview
Manage diabetes effectively with the High-protein meal plan for diabetics. This healthy diet focuses on incorporating protein-rich foods that help stabilize blood sugar levels.
With an emphasis on lean proteins, healthy fats, and low-glycemic carbohydrates, it’s a strategic approach to diabetic nutrition.
Foods to eat
- Lean Proteins: Fish, chicken, turkey, and eggs for muscle health and satiety.
- Healthy Fats: Avocados, olive oil, and nuts for essential fatty acids.
- Low-Carb Vegetables: Broccoli, spinach, cauliflower, and zucchini for vitamins and minerals.
- Low-Sugar Fruits: Berries, kiwi, and citrus fruits in moderation.
- Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, pumpkin seeds, and flaxseeds for snacking and nutrients.
- Dairy or Dairy Alternatives: Greek yogurt, almond milk, and cheese in moderation.
- Plenty of Water and Herbal Teas: For hydration.
- Herbs and Spices: To add flavor without carbs or sugar.
✅ Tip
Foods not to eat
- Processed and Refined Carbs: Such as bread, pasta, and sugary cereals.
- High-Sugar Foods: Sweets, candies, and desserts high in sugar.
- Sweetened Beverages: Soda, sweetened teas, and fruit juices.
- Fried Foods: High in unhealthy fats and often contain hidden carbs.
- High-Carb Fruits: Like bananas and pineapple.
- Processed Snacks: Chips and crackers, which can be high in carbs.
- Alcohol: Especially beer and sweet cocktails.
- Trans Fats: Found in some processed and fast foods.
Main benefits
The Low-Carb meal plan for healthy eating provides a balanced approach to nutrition while maintaining a low carbohydrate intake. It includes a variety of nutrient-dense foods such as lean proteins, healthy fats, and low-carb vegetables, ensuring a well-rounded diet that supports overall health.
🎓 Recommended nutrient breakdown
Fat
Carbs
Protein
Fiber
Other
Food alternatives
A high-protein meal planning can be nutritious and balanced with these alternatives:
- Opt for steel-cut oats instead of regular oatmeal for a higher fiber content.
- Use walnut oil instead of olive oil for a different taste and healthy fats.
- Add blackberries instead of blueberries for a different antioxidant-rich fruit.
- Include chickpea pasta instead of traditional pasta for added protein.
- Enhance your dishes with arugula instead of spinach for a peppery flavor.
How to budget on this meal plan
Extra tips
Any healthy snack ideas?
Diabetics can enjoy these high-protein, low-sugar snacks:
- Almonds and walnuts mix
- Cheese slices with apple
- Roasted chickpeas
- Tuna salad with avocado
- Boiled egg with spinach
- Beef jerky (low sodium)
- Grilled tofu with soy sauce
What should I drink on this meal plan?
For people with diabetes following a high-protein diet, beverage choices should support stable blood sugar levels. Almond milk is a low-carb option, while whey protein shakes can help with blood sugar management. Unsweetened soy milk provides protein without excess sugar, and bone broth offers protein with healthful minerals. Green tea can also be beneficial due to its antioxidant properties.
How to get even more nutrients?
Meal plan suggestion
High-Protein Meal Plan for Diabetics
Day 1
- Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with spinach and mushrooms (calories: 250, protein: 20g, carbs: 5g, fat: 15g)
- Lunch: Grilled chicken salad with mixed greens, avocado, and olive oil dressing (calories: 400, protein: 35g, carbs: 10g, fat: 20g)
- Snack: Greek yogurt with a sprinkle of chia seeds (calories: 180, protein: 12g, carbs: 10g, fat: 8g)
- Dinner: Baked salmon with steamed asparagus and quinoa (calories: 500, protein: 40g, carbs: 20g, fat: 22g)
Day 2
- Breakfast: Omelette with feta cheese and tomatoes (calories: 300, protein: 22g, carbs: 8g, fat: 20g)
- Lunch: Tuna salad with mixed greens and a lemon-olive oil dressing (calories: 350, protein: 30g, carbs: 10g, fat: 18g)
- Snack: A handful of almonds (calories: 170, protein: 6g, carbs: 6g, fat: 15g)
- Dinner: Stir-fried tofu with mixed vegetables (calories: 350, protein: 18g, carbs: 20g, fat: 18g)
Day 3
- Breakfast: Cottage cheese with sliced cucumber (calories: 180, protein: 15g, carbs: 5g, fat: 8g)
- Lunch: Quinoa and black bean salad with bell peppers and avocado (calories: 400, protein: 15g, carbs: 30g, fat: 18g)
- Snack: Hummus with carrot sticks (calories: 150, protein: 6g, carbs: 15g, fat: 8g)
- Dinner: Grilled shrimp over a large salad with olive oil and lemon dressing (calories: 400, protein: 35g, carbs: 15g, fat: 22g)
Day 4
- Breakfast: Protein shake with unsweetened almond milk and spinach (calories: 220, protein: 20g, carbs: 6g, fat: 10g)
- Lunch: Lentil soup with a side of whole grain bread (calories: 350, protein: 18g, carbs: 35g, fat: 10g)
- Snack: A small apple with a tablespoon of peanut butter (calories: 150, protein: 4g, carbs: 20g, fat: 8g)
- Dinner: Baked chicken with roasted Brussels sprouts (calories: 450, protein: 40g, carbs: 20g, fat: 20g)
Day 5
- Breakfast: Avocado and egg toast on whole grain bread (calories: 350, protein: 20g, carbs: 30g, fat: 18g)
- Lunch: Greek salad with chickpeas and olives (calories: 400, protein: 15g, carbs: 30g, fat: 20g)
- Snack: A handful of roasted chickpeas (calories: 120, protein: 6g, carbs: 20g, fat: 4g)
- Dinner: Zucchini noodles with pesto and grilled chicken (calories: 400, protein: 35g, carbs: 15g, fat: 25g)
Day 6
- Breakfast: Greek yogurt with nuts and a few raspberries (calories: 250, protein: 20g, carbs: 15g, fat: 12g)
- Lunch: Spinach and mushroom stuffed bell peppers (calories: 300, protein: 12g, carbs: 25g, fat: 15g)
- Snack: Sliced bell peppers with guacamole (calories: 150, protein: 2g, carbs: 10g, fat: 12g)
- Dinner: Grilled eggplant and zucchini with feta cheese (calories: 350, protein: 15g, carbs: 20g, fat: 20g)
Day 7
- Breakfast: Protein pancakes with a small amount of maple syrup (calories: 300, protein: 20g, carbs: 25g, fat: 10g)
- Lunch: Turkey and cheese lettuce wraps with mustard (calories: 350, protein: 30g, carbs: 5g, fat: 20g)
- Snack: A small pear with a slice of cheese (calories: 150, protein: 6g, carbs: 15g, fat: 8g)
- Dinner: Vegetable curry with chickpeas and a side of cauliflower rice (calories: 400, protein: 18g, carbs: 30g, fat: 20g)
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⚠️ Keep in mind
Article reviewed
- Written by our editorial team.
- Published on Feb 29, 2024
- Updated on Nov 22, 2024