Can a diabetic eat Salad?
Yes, a diabetic can eat salad. However, it is important to keep the salad diabetic friendly. Salads are a great way to keep a diabetic well nourished. Adequate attention must be paid to the ingredients as any foods high in carbohydrates or sugar can cause blood sugar spikes. A salad is always included in what a diabetic can eat to make the meal nutritious and filling.
What type of salad is good for a diabetic?
Salads made from fresh vegetables are great for a diabetic for their nutritional value. Vegetable based salads do not generally cause any blood sugar spikes. Salads that are low in carbs and added sugar are great for diabetics. It is also important to keep salad high in protein. High protein in salad will help you feel full for longer which helps with diabetes. If you choose high fibre vegetables for a diabetic salad, it will help lower cholesterol. You can also add some healthful nuts to a diabetic salad. For example, walnuts can be beneficial for your heart. In summary, you can go for lots of fresh vegetables like cucumbers, celery, radishes, carrots etc. Many leafy greens such as spinach, arugula, coriander leaves, mint leaves, cress etc. add some nutrition and taste to salads. You can garnish your salad with healthful nuts, seeds, dry cranberries or even avocado to make it more appealing and nutritious.
On the other hand, it is also important to avoid anything high in carbohydrates. For example, if you top up a healthful salad with croutons or chips, it may cause blood sugar spikes. Croutons and chips are high in carbohydrates. If you do want to top yoru salad up with something, go for sesame seeds. Sesame seeds are nutritious and good for a diabetic to eat.
What salad dressings are good for diabetics?
Most salads on their own are great for a diabetic. But, if you choose the wrong dressing for your salad, you may lose all the good from your salad. For example, if you choose any salad dressing that is high in added sugar or sodium or fat, it can cause diabetic complications. Hence it is important to go for healthful dressings for your salad.
Extra virgin olive oil is a great salad dressing because of all the health benefits. Along with olive oil, you can add apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar. Experts say olive oil and vinegar dressing is the best for anyone worried about diabetes. Lemon juice and olive oil dressing is also popular with diabetics as it is healthful and goes well with many salads. If you fancy a creamier and thicker dressing for your salad, any yogurt will do. Greek yogurt is a good option.
