Paleo Meal Plan for Diabetics: Grocery List and Meal Prep Tips
The Paleo meal plan for diabetics is tailored to regulate blood sugar levels using Paleo principles. It includes low-glycemic fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, all conducive to stable glucose levels.
This plan is designed to assist in managing diabetes with nutrient-dense, unprocessed foods. It’s about supporting blood sugar control naturally and healthily.
Meal plan grocery list
- Eggs
- Spinach
- Mushrooms
- Chicken breast
- Mixed greens
- Cucumber
- Bell peppers
- Olive oil
- Vinegar
- Almonds
- Salmon fillet
- Asparagus
- Cauliflower
- Avocado
- Coconut yogurt
- Walnuts
- Blueberries
- Arugula
- Tuna
- Cherry tomatoes
- Celery
- Almond butter
- Green zucchini
- Lemon
- Chicken breast (for roasting)
- Leafy greens
- Beef
- Broccoli
- Carrots
- Chia seeds
- Apple
- Shrimp
- Avocado (for salad)
- Mixed nuts
- Beef (for kebabs)
- Onion
- Tomato
- Eggs (for baking)
- Balsamic dressing
- Hummus
- Red bell peppers
- Eggs (for scrambling)
- Tomato
- Chicken (for Caesar salad)
- Kale
- Coconut
Meal plan overview
"Paleo Meal Plan for Diabetics" offers a balanced approach to diabetic health, combining Paleo eating with blood sugar management.
Over the course of two weeks, discover meals that are beneficial for maintaining stable glucose levels. This plan is a harmonious blend of delicious, nutrient-rich foods and diabetic-conscious eating.
Foods to eat
- Low-Glycemic Fruits: Berries, apples, and pears for natural sweetness with less sugar impact.
- Non-Starchy Vegetables: Leafy greens, broccoli, and cauliflower for fiber and nutrients.
- Lean Proteins: Chicken, turkey, and fish for maintaining muscle without excess fats.
- Healthy Fats: Avocado, olive oil, and nuts like almonds for heart health.
- Nuts and Seeds: Chia seeds, flaxseeds, and walnuts for omega-3 fatty acids.
- Eggs: A great source of protein and nutrients, ideal for a diabetic-friendly diet.
- Herbs and Spices: Cinnamon, turmeric, and ginger for flavor and potential blood sugar regulation benefits.
- Hydration: Water, herbal teas, and unsweetened almond milk for proper hydration.
✅ Tip
Focus on lean proteins and healthy fats to help stabilize blood sugar levels and avoid insulin spikes.
Foods not to eat
- High-Glycemic Fruits: Avoid fruits like bananas, pineapples, and mangoes that can spike blood sugar.
- Starchy Vegetables: Potatoes, corn, and peas are high in carbohydrates and should be limited.
- Refined Sugars: Steer clear of sugary snacks, desserts, and sweetened beverages.
- Processed Foods: Anything packaged and processed, as they often contain hidden sugars and unhealthy fats.
- Grains: Wheat, rice, and oats are not recommended in a Paleo diet and can impact blood sugar levels.
- Legumes: Beans and lentils, although healthy, are high in carbs and not Paleo-friendly.
- Dairy Products: Milk and high-lactose dairy products can affect blood sugar and are not part of a Paleo diet.
- Artificial Sweeteners: While not high in sugar, they can still affect insulin sensitivity and cravings.
Main benefits
The Paleo meal plan for diabetics is designed to stabilize blood sugar levels by emphasizing low-glycemic fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. It limits processed foods and sugars, supporting better glucose control and overall diabetic health.
Fat
Carbs
Protein
Fiber
Other
Food alternatives
A Paleo meal plan for diabetics can include these nutritious and tasty alternatives:
- Try collard greens for a different leafy green instead of spinach in your salads.
- Switch up your protein with turkey instead of chicken breast.
- For a sweet treat, consider figs instead of apples in your snacks.
- Butternut squash offers a different texture compared to carrots in your meals.
- For a crunchy addition, use hazelnuts instead of almonds in your snacks.
How to budget on this meal plan
Eggs, spinach, and mushrooms can be bought in bulk and used in various dishes. Chicken breast and salmon fillet are versatile protein sources that can be more affordable when purchased in larger quantities. Opt for in-season vegetables like bell peppers and cherry tomatoes. Homemade almond butter can be a cost-effective alternative to store-bought versions.
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Extra tips
Any healthy snack ideas?
These Paleo snacks are great for stabilizing blood sugar levels:
- Raw nuts and seeds
- Avocado slices
- Hard-boiled eggs
- Coconut yogurt
- Beef or turkey jerky
- Fresh bell pepper slices
- Green smoothie (no added sugar)
What should I drink on this meal plan?
For Paleo diabetics, beverage choices are crucial. Water remains the cornerstone for hydration. Herbal teas, particularly those like cinnamon or fenugreek, can support blood sugar regulation. Unsweetened almond milk is a good dairy alternative. Green tea aids in metabolism, and bone broth provides nutrients without impacting blood sugar levels.
How to get even more nutrients?
Paleo for diabetics is tailored to help stabilize blood sugar levels through a diet low in refined sugars and high in fiber-rich vegetables and fruits. The emphasis on lean proteins and healthy fats helps maintain a steady energy supply without causing sharp spikes in blood glucose. By focusing on unprocessed foods, this diet also helps in managing insulin sensitivity.
Meal plan suggestions
Meal Plan for Paleo Diabetics
Day 1
- Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with spinach and mushrooms (calories: 250, protein: 20g, carbs: 5g, fat: 18g)
- Lunch: Grilled chicken with a salad of mixed greens, cucumber, and bell peppers, dressed with olive oil and vinegar (calories: 350, protein: 30g, carbs: 10g, fat: 20g)
- Snack: A handful of almonds (calories: 160, protein: 6g, carbs: 6g, fat: 14g)
- Dinner: Baked salmon with steamed asparagus and a side of cauliflower rice (calories: 400, protein: 35g, carbs: 15g, fat: 22g)
Day 2
- Breakfast: Avocado and egg salad with a side of mixed greens (calories: 300, protein: 15g, carbs: 8g, fat: 25g)
- Lunch: Beef and vegetable stir-fry with broccoli, carrots, and snow peas (calories: 360, protein: 25g, carbs: 15g, fat: 20g)
- Snack: Celery sticks with almond butter (calories: 150, protein: 5g, carbs: 8g, fat: 12g)
- Dinner: Grilled pork chop with a side of roasted Brussels sprouts and mixed peppers (calories: 420, protein: 38g, carbs: 15g, fat: 24g)
Day 3
- Breakfast: Coconut yogurt with a handful of walnuts and blueberries (calories: 280, protein: 10g, carbs: 12g, fat: 20g)
- Lunch: Tuna salad with avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a bed of arugula (calories: 350, protein: 30g, carbs: 10g, fat: 21g)
- Snack: Sliced cucumber and a hard-boiled egg (calories: 120, protein: 7g, carbs: 5g, fat: 7g)
- Dinner: Lemon and herb roasted chicken breast with a side of grilled zucchini (calories: 390, protein: 35g, carbs: 10g, fat: 23g)
Day 4
- Breakfast: Smoothie with spinach, almond milk, chia seeds, and a small apple (calories: 250, protein: 6g, carbs: 20g, fat: 15g)
- Lunch: Grilled shrimp over a salad of mixed leafy greens, cucumber, and avocado (calories: 360, protein: 28g, carbs: 12g, fat: 22g)
- Snack: A handful of mixed nuts (calories: 170, protein: 5g, carbs: 6g, fat: 15g)
- Dinner: Beef and vegetable kebabs with bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes (calories: 410, protein: 35g, carbs: 15g, fat: 25g)
Day 5
- Breakfast: Baked avocado with an egg (calories: 300, protein: 12g, carbs: 8g, fat: 25g)
- Lunch: Salad with grilled chicken, mixed greens, walnuts, and balsamic dressing (calories: 350, protein: 30g, carbs: 10g, fat: 20g)
- Snack: Sliced bell peppers with hummus (calories: 140, protein: 4g, carbs: 10g, fat: 8g)
- Dinner: Pan-seared salmon with a side of roasted cauliflower and green beans (calories: 400, protein: 35g, carbs: 15g, fat: 24g)
Day 6
- Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with diced tomato and spinach (calories: 260, protein: 20g, carbs: 6g, fat: 18g)
- Lunch: Paleo-friendly chicken Caesar salad (no croutons) with a homemade Caesar dressing (calories: 340, protein: 30g, carbs: 8g, fat: 22g)
- Snack: A small serving of berries and a few macadamia nuts (calories: 150, protein: 2g, carbs: 12g, fat: 10g)
- Dinner: Grilled lamb with a side of sautéed spinach and mushrooms (calories: 420, protein: 38g, carbs: 10g, fat: 26g)
Day 7
- Breakfast: Smoothie with kale, cucumber, coconut milk, and a small pear (calories: 230, protein: 4g, carbs: 18g, fat: 16g)
- Lunch: Roast beef with a side of steamed broccoli and carrots (calories: 350, protein: 32g, carbs: 12g, fat: 20g)
- Snack: A handful of pumpkin seeds (calories: 180, protein: 7g, carbs: 5g, fat: 15g)
- Dinner: Baked trout with lemon, dill, and a side of roasted asparagus (calories: 400, protein: 35g, carbs: 8g, fat: 26g)
Want to learn more?
⚠️ 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.
