We are all aware of the fact that type 2 diabetic people suffer from a long-term condition where the body doesn’t use insulin properly, which results in unusual blood sugar levels. As difficult as it is to deal with symptoms like fatigue, increased appetite, infections, and blurry vision, one of the main issues people face is being strict with their diet. Diabetes restricts people from having food items like deep-fried stuff, meat, and processed food that might hamper their blood sugar levels.
Is Pizza Safe for People with Diabetes?
Short answer – Yes, people with diabetes can enjoy all types of pizza, but it’s wise for everyone, not just those with diabetes, to limit pizza intake.
- High in Refined and Total Carbs: Refined carbs, like those in pizza crust, can affect blood sugar levels significantly.
- Sodium Concerns: Pizza can be high in sodium, which can impact blood pressure, especially for people with type 2 diabetes.
- Saturated Fat: Pizza can contain saturated fat, which may worsen diabetes and insulin resistance.
While pizza can be enjoyed, it’s important to moderate pizza consumption as part of a balanced, nutrient-dense diet.
What Are the Best Types of Pizza for People with Diabetes?
People with diabetes can have any type of pizza occasionally, but it’s advisable to focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods for most meals.
- Choose Nutrient-Dense Toppings: Opt for toppings like grilled veggies, fresh mozzarella, and olives for fiber, protein, and healthy fats.
- Consider Whole Grain or Alternative Crusts: Crusts made with almond flour or cauliflower are lower in carbs and have a milder impact on blood sugar.
- Limit Certain Ingredients: Be mindful of processed meats, extra cheese, thick crusts, and creamy sauces, as they can increase carb content and calories.
Diabetics can opt for whole wheat pizzas with fresh veggie toppings, excluding meat, when they go out for dining. Several cafes and restaurants have come up in recent times that serve a healthy version of junk food and snacks. For example, Papa John’s has 100 percent wheat-based pizza variants. Another thing to remember is the quantity; one must have pizza as a snack and only a few slices rather than having a whole pizza as a meal.
Healthy Tips for Pizza Lovers
- Don’t Feel Guilty: Enjoy a slice of pizza occasionally, as completely avoiding your favorite foods can lead to cravings.
- Pair with Healthy Sides: Combine pizza with a salad featuring protein sources like grilled chicken or salmon to balance nutrients.
- Opt for Nutrient-Dense Toppings: Choose toppings like mushrooms, spinach, and artichokes for fiber and add a protein source.
- Make Your Own Pizza: Homemade pizza allows you to control ingredients, making it a healthier option.
- Mind Your Portions: Be aware of slice sizes, and consider thin crust options for fewer calories and carbs.
Nutritious Pizza Recipes
Creating homemade pizza recipes can be both delicious and diabetes-friendly. Here are some ideas:
- Zucchini Pizza Crust: Made with almond flour and topped with veggies, it’s lower in carbs and high in fiber.
- Cauliflower Pizza Crust: Top with shredded chicken, pesto, mozzarella, and spinach for a low-carb, protein-rich option.
- Almond Flour Pizza Crust: Customize with your choice of cheese, sauce, and veggies for a lower-carb alternative.
If you prefer convenience, there are lower-carb crust options available in stores to help manage blood sugar.
Other healthy snack options for type 2 diabetic people
1. Chocolate chia pudding
One can never go wrong with chocolate chia pudding. Chia seeds are full of healthful fiber, and when paired up with chocolate, it offers a satisfying crunch.
2. Sprouts salad
People with type 2 diabetes should include sprouts in their diet, as they are full of nutrients.
3. Edamame
Edamame is enriched with fiber, protein, and a delicious flavor, making it a perfect snack.
4. Crackers/vegetables with hummus
Fresh hummus made from chickpeas is another fiber-rich healthy snack.
5. Fruits with Greek yogurt
Relish a bowl of seasonal fruits alongside Greek yogurt for a filling snack.
The Bottom Line
If you have diabetes, maintaining a nutrient-dense diet is essential for your health and blood sugar control. However, you can still enjoy pizza as part of a balanced diet. Making homemade pizza with lower-carb ingredients can be a delicious and diabetes-friendly option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can pizza raise your blood sugar?
Pizzas made from refined flour and loaded with processed cheese and meat are unhealthy for diabetics. Such food items can raise blood sugar levels, opt for “healthier” pizzas such as thin crust ones with a lot of veggies.
2. What type of pizza is best for diabetics?
Diabetics can opt for pizzas with bases made from whole wheat, fresh toppings, and fresh cheese or even no cheese.
3. How many slices of pizza can a diabetic eat?
A diabetic person can have up to 1-2 slices of pizza if he/she is usually on a strict diet. The person should ensure they do not consume the pizza as a meal but only as a snack.
4. Can a diabetic eat a whole pizza?
Diabetic people should avoid having a whole pizza to themselves, as their bodies can induce a delayed blood sugar rise. It is better to have a few slices occasionally.
Conclusion
We hope that this article helped the conscious eaters out there to understand the pizza consumption pattern for diabetics. As the article suggests, people with type 2 diabetes should keep an eye on the portion if they decide to indulge in pizzas, keeping toppings in mind.
Also Read: Top 5 insulated bowls to keep your food warm.
