Dietitian approved budget-friendly foods for diabetes

by Megan Callahan, Hy-Vee Corporate Dietitian
 

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     If you have diabetes or know someone with diabetes, you may think you need to spend a lot of money on healthier foods and compromise on taste. Not true! There are many great finds all over your Hy-Vee grocery store that fit your budget and your need to control blood sugars.
     You don’t have to purchase special foods, create complicated recipes or only seek out labels that boast “sugar-free” to eat well with diabetes. Here are the best 5 budget-friendly foods that are appropriate for managing your diabetes while still finding joy in the food you eat.
    All foods fit when living with diabetes. These healthy picks by your Hy-Vee dietitians can help take the guesswork out of trying something new, provide a new twist on something familiar and still be budget savvy.
     Try Full Circle Power Bowls if you are looking for a fast lunch or dinner idea.
      “These bowls are a convenient plant-based meal, a delicious way to get your veggies, protein and healthy fats, and help you feel confident about your meal choice. The simple goodness with market-inspired flavors is a great source of fiber and protein – the perfect combo when it comes to blood sugar control,” Shannon Muhs, RD, said.
     Get a vegetable side ready fast with Hy-Vee Short Cuts Grill Pan Asparagus.
Amy Cordingly, RD, likes to take the guesswork out of meal planning with already prepped vegetables that are high in fiber, which can help you feel full longer after a meal.
     “Short Cuts asparagus is already washed and trimmed – no prep work needed. Just bake or grill for a quick side dish. By including non-starchy vegetables at meals, it helps with blood sugar management. They are low in calories and carbs, so make sure they fill up half your plate,”  Cordingly said.
     Yes, you can have something sweet with Zoet Dark Chocolate. Cordingly is also a fan of dark chocolate.
     “Just because you have diabetes doesn’t mean you have to eliminate all sweets. Dark chocolate tends to be lower in sugar than milk chocolate. Look for 70% or higher cacao and add-ins like nuts rather than dried fruit. The key is portion size. Enjoy one to two squares of dark chocolate for a sweet treat after a meal.”
     Level up your breakfast with Hy-Vee One Step Original Bite Size Shredded Wheat. A well-rounded breakfast is important for people living with diabetes, including whole grain and produce.
     “This cereal is a good source of fiber to help slow the rise of blood glucose and keep you full longer. I like to top with fresh berries and pair with a few scrambled egg whites for a well-rounded diabetic-friendly meal choice,” Ashton Ibarra, RD, said.
     Power up your snack with Soiree Pearl Mozzarella.
     You don’t have to give up cheese when living with diabetes; however, it is important to choose ones to better meet your lower fat nutrition needs. Cheese has protein but is also may be high in fat and sodium.
     “Mozzarella cheese is protein rich and pairs well with carbohydrate foods for better blood sugar control. A 1-ounce serving of Soiree Pearl Mozzerella (about 8-9 pearls) is low in sodium and is naturally a reduced-fat cheese. The best part? It still has great flavor, texture and melts well,” Anne Cundiff, RD, said.  
     Another nutrition bonus: Mozzarella provides calcium and vitamin D, which may reduce your increased risk for osteoporosis as a diabetic.
     Your Hy-Vee dietitians enjoy sharing all things delicious in the grocery store and are available to schedule your personal nutrition tour in-person or virtually. Go to https://www.hy-vee.com/health/default.aspx and find your dietitian.
 
     The information is not intended as medical advice. Please consult a medical professional for individual advice.
     Megan Callahan is one of your Hy-Vee Corporate Dietitians. She is dedicated to helping people live healthier and happier lives. Megan received a bachelor’s degree in dietetics from Missouri State University. She completed her dietetic internship at the University of Kansas Medical Center, where she also received her Master of Science degree in dietetics and nutrition. Megan has been working with Hy-Vee full-time for 10 years. Megan lives in Lee’s Summit with her husband Matt, and their 2 children Kennedy (4) & Carsyn (2).