How Protein Affects Blood Sugar Levels

Consuming quality proteins with meals and snacks can have a positive effect on your blood sugar levels, similar to fiber. If you properly combine proteins and carbohydrates you will slow down the body's digestion of the carbohydrates. This will result in preventing your blood sugar from spiking by consuming too many carbohydrates.

However, it is still recommended to stick to the guidelines when it comes to the amount of protein you should eat at any given meal. Doing otherwise can cause problems. At the same time, getting inadequate protein in your diet is even worse. For vegetarian diabetics and those who do not get a lot of protein, it is important to find sources to consume high-quality protein on a regular basis.

There are many alternatives to animal meats when it comes to high-quality protein. For example, tofu is an excellent source of protein that can be used in a variety of different ways — even with desserts. Nuts contain a high amount of protein, but also a lot of fat as well. It is best to enjoy these in moderation. The same can be said for seeds such as flax, sunflower and pumpkin.

Beans and legumes also excellent sources of protein, and can be prepared in a variety of different ways. Finally, there are protein powders you can use to sprinkle on top of your meals or into drinks. Fish can also be an excellent source of protein, but farmed fish contain many undesirable chemicals in them as well as high amounts of mercury. It is best to consume fish no more than once or twice a week.

While protein has an overall positive effect on blood sugar levels, it is important to understand that excessive fat can have its own health complications. Make sure you don't over-do your fat intake when getting your protein.

Recommended Reading:

1. Important Non Meat Sources Of Protein For Vegetarians - Although most vegetarians consume a considerable amount of protein, they often do not absorb as much as they would on...
2. Why Some Vegetarians Will Not Consume Sugar - Some vegetarians--usually strict vegans--will not consume sugar. This is because sugar is often whitened with bone char from cows. If...
3. Carbohydrate Counting Diet - Carbohydrates can affect blood glucose levels greatly. This is because the body converts them into sugar when it turns food...
4. Benefits Of Whey Protein - In recent years, the subject of whey protein has come up often in health discussions. Know what whey protein is,...
5. Benefits Of Soy Protein - Soy protein is emerging as one of the great alternative protein sources for human consumption. Health experts are all excited...