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CWD Eats Featured

Diabetes & Pickles: Exploring this Sweet and Sour Overlap

November 14th: National Diabetes Day AND National Pickle Day. Is this a coincidence? When I first heard about the idea of celebrating diabetes and pickles on the same day, I couldn’t help but laugh. But the more I thought about it, the more surprising similarities I noticed! So, as we celebrate National Diabetes Day, join me for a laugh as we dive into the unexpected ways diabetes and pickles have more in common than we think. Diabetes and pickles both require extra attention. Managing blood sugar levels takes a lot of focus, planning, and discipline – whether it’s calculating carbohydrates, […]

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The Nutritional Powerhouses of Fall’s Bounty

As the crisp autumn air arrives, so does a bounty of seasonal fruits and vegetables that are not only delicious but also packed with vital nutrients. For people managing diabetes, these seasonal delights can play a role in maintaining stable blood sugars and supporting overall well-being. From fiber-packed pumpkins to antioxidant-rich apples, here are some of the fall harvest’s nutritional stars. Pumpkin: Pumpkin is one of the quintessential fall foods, and it’s celebrated for its versatility in both sweet and savory dishes. Nutritionally, pumpkin is a powerhouse with three factors. One, it is high in fiber, which slows digestion. Two, […]

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What’s So Great About Chickpeas?

Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are legumes and part of the protein food group. Not only are they versatile and delicious, but they offer a plethora of health benefits, particularly for individuals managing diabetes. Packed with essential nutrients and having a low glycemic index, chickpeas can be a valuable addition to a healthy diet. It would only make sense, since chickpeas are a part of the protein food group, for them to be an excellent source of plant-based protein. Protein is an essential part of a balanced diet and for people with diabetes it helps stabilize blood sugar levels. […]

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Five Nutritional Benefits of Peanut Butter

Peanut butter, a beloved pantry staple, is more than just a tasty spread. Beyond its delectable flavor, peanut butter offers a rich source of essential nutrients, including protein, healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Incorporating peanut butter into a balanced diet has many advantages, specifically for individuals managing diabetes. Plant-based protein: Peanut butter is an excellent source of protein. The presence of protein facilitates a slower absorption of carbohydrates, preventing rapid spikes in blood sugar levels. Healthy fats: Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats contribute to heart health and satiety; both can be found in peanut butter. Since individuals with diabetes have […]

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How to Build a Nutrient Packed Smoothie

Smoothies are a terrific way to incorporate essential nutrients into your diet while enjoying a refreshing treat. Whether you’re aiming to shed a few pounds, manage your carbohydrate intake, or simply boost your overall well-being, creating healthy, lower-calorie and lower-carbohydrate smoothies is a smart choice. They can be a great breakfast option or a fresh, tasty snack. We’ll explore tips, tricks, and recipes to help you build delicious smoothies that align with your health goals. Many smoothies, especially those from restaurants and smoothie bars, are loaded with added sugars that can lead to high blood sugars. I’ve created four smoothies […]

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Swallowing Food Guilt

By Kim Rose, RDN, CDE People who have diabetes can eat anything! Yes, fruits, vegetables and legumes, dairy products, grains and starches, and protein are all okay to eat, just as long as you do not have a food sensitivity or allergy! Media marketers that share inaccurate information have vilified certain foods and food groups and made them seem like the bad guys of grocery. The truth is, different foods contain a variety vitamins and minerals that have several different functions in the body, including growth, repair, and maintenance. The best way to manage food guilt is to rewire the […]

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Meet CWD Eats Contributor: Kristen O’Dell, MS, RD, CDCES

Hi! I am Kristen O’Dell, Registered Dietitian, Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist, and I have had type 1 diabetes for over two decades. My relationship with food and diabetes has changed over the years and below are some key concepts that guide me when it comes to maintaining a healthy relationship with food and living a healthy lifestyle with diabetes. These points also help me in my work as a registered dietitian and diabetes educator. FOOD. Food is a fundamental part of life. From the clichés, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away” or “You are what you […]

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