Having diabetes does not mean you have to avoid snacks altogether. Choose foods that are rich in protein and dietary fibre and low in sugar. What foods fit the bill? Here are three foods that are good snack choices for people with diabetes.

▶Hummus=Hummus is a mashed food made by combining chickpeas, olive oil and lemon juice. It is usually eaten with whole-wheat bread or crackers. Chickpeas, the main ingredient in hummus, are an excellent source of protein and are rich in resistant starch, which is digested and absorbed slowly, making them suitable for people managing their weight or living with diabetes. However, even foods rich in protein can cause blood sugar to rise sharply if consumed in excess. Portion sizes should be controlled. Since the sugar content may be high depending on the product, check the nutrition label before eating it. Eating hummus with vegetable sticks such as cucumbers and carrots instead of bread or crackers can help with blood sugar management.

Low-sodium, low-sugar jerky made with little or no seasoning such as soy sauce, pepper and corn syrup contains less sodium and sugar, making it a relatively manageable snack for people monitoring their blood sugar or blood pressure. /Photo=Clipart Korea

▶Low-Sodium Jerky=Jerky is made by thinly slicing, seasoning and drying meat. Low-sodium, low-sugar jerky made with little or no seasoning such as soy sauce, pepper and corn syrup contains less sodium and sugar, making it a relatively manageable snack for people monitoring their blood sugar or blood pressure. As a representative high-protein food, it also helps maintain muscle health. Muscles absorb glucose and use and store it as energy, playing a key role in blood sugar management. Low-sodium jerky should also be eaten in moderation. It is recommended to consume about 20 to 30g per day.

▶Greek Yogurt and Blueberries=The combination of Greek yogurt and berries is also a good snack option. It is a good way to supplement protein, calcium and antioxidants. Although protein content varies by product, according to an announcement by the Fair Trade Commission, 100g of Greek yogurt contains an average of 8.3g of protein, about twice as much as regular yogurt. Berries such as blueberries and acai berries are low-glycaemic-index foods that people with diabetes can also eat. They are also rich in antioxidants such as anthocyanins and polyphenols. However, eating too many berries can also cause blood sugar to rise sharply. For blueberries, it is best not to exceed about 100g per day, roughly one paper cup.