“Eating various vegetables is the best way to go if you want to remain healthy “. I’m tired of hearing this even though it’s the truth.
There are so many vegetables to pick from and as a diabetic trying to switch up my meals, I find it difficult to choose which one is good for me, so what do I do then?
Since I was diagnosed with diabetes, my beloved husband has been so supportive and I can tell just by looking at all the veggies on the kitchen Island whenever he brings the groceries home.
Take it from me when I say they’re a lot and now I have to whip up some vegetable-packed meals, but is vegetable soup good for diabetics? We’ll have to explore the answer in this article.
Vegetable Soup- What Does It Involve?
In simple terms, vegetable soup is a hearty soup made with vegetables and love.
Usually, vegetable soups are made using water, a little milk, or broth, Onion and garlic are sautéd, and then a variety of vegetables like tomatoes, celery, carrots, and potatoes are sliced and poured into the mix. Spices, like salt, pepper, and some curry powder may be added for a more intense flavor.
This healthy and mostly delicious meal has become one of the most produced and consumed meals in recent times, I mean why do you think veggies are getting expensive by the day?
Is vegetable soup good for diabetics?
It may be true that vegetables are good, and healthy and need to be included in all our meals, but did you know that not all vegetables were created equal? Especially for Diabetics.
Yes, Vegetable soup is good for Diabetics, because these soups can be said to be good for the body, as they tend to carry a lot of important nutrients that the body needs, such as antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins. The type of vegetable included has to be “good for Diabetics”, by this, I mean non-starchy vegetables, because depending on the contents of a vegetable soup, there may be the risk of a spike in insulin levels.
So as a diabetic, your choice of vegetables added to your soups should be the ones that have high fiber, little to no starch, no added salts, high levels of vitamins and minerals plus some beans or lentils. This vegetable soup will keep you fuller for longer and prevent you from snacking in between.
When it comes to dieting, Diabetics are always advised to stick to little or no- carb diets, it could be a bit difficult, but then again, it doesn’t have to be. Here are some tips on how diabetics can enjoy a hearty bowl of vegetable soup.
How to enjoy a Diabetic-friendly Vegetable Soup
Though cooking can be tiresome, it doesn’t have to be. I like to get creative in the kitchen, and whenever I make vegetable soups, there are a few basic details I pay attention to, like the type of vegetable I use (I love quinoa), and the amount of salt added, sometimes, I even do without it.
1) the first thing to do with vegetable soups for Diabetics when you want to enjoy them is to make them yourself. Making your soups and dishes yourself enables you to modify the recipes, and make more than you need so you can make enough to last for the week.
This in turn saves you from eating junk, thereby keeping your blood sugar under control.
2) To enjoy a Diabetic-friendly Vegetable soup, go for veggies with a low glycemic index. Vegetables such as cauliflower, broccoli, bell peppers, and even tomatoes in soups can nourish the body, keeping your sugar levels stable.
3) Increase the volume of fiber in the soup. Fiber is necessary when you need to slow down the absorption of sugar in the body, in this case, you can always opt for legumes like beans and lentils to make your food high in fiber.
4) To avoid excess sugar in your body, which is why we’re here, you must avoid using added sugars in any of your meals. In this case, corn must go out of your diet. Corn is a grain that offers benefits, and not so much carbohydrate.
however, as a diabetic, the 3.22g of sugar in every 100g is not so healthy for you. Stay away.
6) As I’ll always say, “Proteins are my best friends”, this is so true, and they should be yours too. Your sizzling pot of vegetable soup would not be complete without some protein in there, so you can pick any protein of your choice, Beans are a great choice, or even some chicken.
Best vegetable soups for diabetics
After reading articles on topics like “Is vegetable soup good for diabetics” and all about vegetables for diabetics, its understandable if you’re also thinking about the best vegetable soups for diabetics that you can have
My advice for you is to reach out to your health professional for advice on this, however, I have some tips that can be a quick fix for dinner. Here’s a list of some of the best vegetable soups for diabetics.
- Quinoa soup, with broccoli spinach
- Lentil based soups
- spinach, tomatoes, and chicken soup
- Tortilla soup.
Conclusion
When it comes to dieting, whether it is by a diabetic patient or someone who’s looking to lose some weight, you must pay close attention to what you eat. Meals do not have to be boring and tasteless, all you have to do is keep them balanced, tasty, simple, and nutritious, with no extras.
Finally, It’s time to be extra cautious when adding spices or broth to your meal. I mean, your life depends on this, so take it seriously.
FAQ
what is the healthiest soup for diabetics?
Soups with little or no starchy ingredients. Like a mushroom or quinoa.
Does vegetable soup spike insulin?
Yes, depending on the kind, for example, soups with starchy vegetables like potatoes, and peas can spike insulin.
Disclaimer: This material is presented for the purpose of education and should not replace the professional medical advice of your healthcare provider.