The Best Snack Options for Children with Diabetes
Healthy snacks are very important for children with diabetes, in case they are dealing with type-1 or type-2 diabetes. Snacks provide a way for children to regenerate themselves, to control their blood glucose levels, and to sustain their energy until their next meal. When deciding the snacks for diabetes among children, offer them snacks that supply protein, complex carbohydrates, and an adequate amount of fiber, vitamins, and minerals to keep their body running.
Try to involve your child in preparation of their snacks. Only then would he or she understands the health benefits and nutritional facts of the snacks. Remember that snacks are not fully snacks if they disintegrate your child’s ability to have its next meal. You should not give up on your child while preparing snacks for children with diabetes, as they tend to be fussy about their food. Here a few healthy snacks for a diabetic child:
1. Popcorn
Popcorn is a snack-time favorite for all children who crave some spicy snacks and it’s also low in carbohydrates. It can be prepared at home within a few minutes and is one of the best snacking options for diabetics. It can be prepared at home, wherein some spices can be added for a better experience of satisfying your child’s cravings.
2. Yogurt with berries
Yogurt can be the best option among the snacks for children with diabetes as the high protein and the average amount of carbs in it is helpful to control the blood sugar level of your child. It is nutritionally more enriched than other packed and store-bought yogurts, which have a few components to trigger the sugar level.
3. Cheese and crackers
Most children are very fond of cheese and crackers, and it is one of the best snacks for kids with diabetes. When you don’t have any vegetables in your refrigerator, you can think of cheese and snackers as one of the best snacks for your child. You are recommended to give real cheese for your children, not the processed ones. In addition, look out for whole-grain crackers as they have a high amount of carbohydrates, which is one of the important nutrients for your child.
4. Fruit smoothies
Fruit smoothies are a great choice for your kids between their meals as they don’t ruin the appetite of your child. Fruit smoothies contain a large amount of antioxidants, proteins, essential vitamins, and minerals. They help control the blood sugar level as well as other body functions. So, you can include these among snacks for children with diabetes.
5. Nutrition bars
A nutrition bar is a convenient option that can also meet the nutritional needs of your child. It is important for you to remember a few things before buying one as some of the bars contain a high sugar level, which is generally not desirable for your child. Nutrition bars can be the best option as snacks for children with diabetes as well as other diabetics.
There are several myths that if a child is diabetic, then his or her growth will be interrupted, but it is not the truth. Parents have to keep in mind several facts, and should choose foods wisely to meet their child’s nutritional requirements.