Type 2 diabetes: Seven of the healthiest late night snacks to keep sugar levels healthy
The human body naturally has sugar in the blood. The right amount of blood sugar gives the body’s cells and organs energy. Too much blood sugar is known as hyperglycaemia. In order to keep blood sugar levels within a normal range, the body needs insulin. Insulin is a hormone that directs the body’s cells to take up glucose and store it. The American Diabetes Association recommend a pre-meal blood sugar level of 180-130 milligrams per decilitre. Around one to two hours after the beginning of a meal, blood sugar should be less than 180 ml/dl. When it comes to late night snacking, eating the wrong foods could create havoc on sugar levels. What are seven of the healthiest late-night snacks for type 2 diabetics?
Cherry juice mixed with chia seeds
Cherry juice is a natural source of melatonin which helps improve sleep.
Studies have shown those battling with insomnia found drinking try cherry juice helped combatted their sleep deprivation.
Adding a few tablespoons of chia seeds provides fibre and anti-inflammatories.
Mashed banana topped with pumpkin seeds
Bananas have been shown to boost blood melatonin levels.
Bananas are rich in potassium which supports healthy blood pressure. Pumpkin seeds contain healthy levels of protein, fibre, zinc, and magnesium.
These all help induce a state of calm and relaxation and plays a role in melatonin regulation.
Leftover sweet potato
The antioxidants in the sweet potatoes boost serotonin triggering a relaxing feeling and is a healthy late-night snack.
Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of immune-supporting vitamins A and C.
Kiwi and pistachios
Eating kiwi on a daily basis leads to improvement to both sleep quality and quantity, research shows.
The addition of pistachios adds bonus antioxidants, plant protein, healthful fat, and minerals.
Pistachios is another top source of sleep promoting melatonin.
Avocado egg salad
Half an avocado tossed with a hard boiled egg provides the body with high-quality, easy-to-digest protein.
Eggs supply tryptophan whilst avocados are a top source of potassium. Both provide bonus antioxidants and key nutrients such as vitamin D, E, K and magnesium.
Hummus with raw vegetables
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, found that participants with a higher intake of fibre and lower consumption of sugar and saturated fat spend more time in restorative, slow-wave sleep.
The vegetable combo perfectly fits the bill for a healthy late-night snack without increasing blood sugar levels.
Salmon and vegetable salad
Fish is high in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D which all promote sleep and keep blood sugar levels normal.
Research shows that a deficiency of vitamin D, which is common in adults, can significantly increase the risk of unhealthy sleep.
The high protein content in fish such as salmon is particularly healthful for people with type 2 diabetes as it does not impact blood sugar levels.
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