Table of content
- Introduction
- Why Opt for Diabetic Friendly Snack Foods?
- Top Packaged Snacks for Diabetics
- Guidelines for Purchasing Packaged Snacks for Diabetics
- Why These Snacks Work for Diabetes Management
- Best Time To Consume Diabetic Friendly Snacks
- Why Some Packaged Snacks are Challenging
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
Introduction
Maintaining stable blood sugar levels doesn’t require giving up delicious and convenient snacks. The key is selecting those low in carbohydrates but high in fiber, protein and healthy fats. We explore 15 top packaged snacks for diabetics with nutritional values, homemade alternatives and peer-reviewed study data. Whether you’re on the go or craving a quick bite, these sugar-friendly diet options will satisfy your hunger without increasing your glucose level.
Why Opt for Diabetic Friendly Snack Foods?
Diabetics tend to rely on snacking to help regulate their blood sugar levels between meals. According to the American Diabetes Association, ideal snacks for diabetics include those that meet several key characteristics:
- 15-30 grams of carbohydrates per serving to avoid glucose spikes.
- At least 3 grams of fiber may help with slow digestion and improving glycemic control (Glycemic Index = GCI), along with protein and healthy fats to increase satiety and stabilize blood sugar.
- With limited added sugars to prevent rapid glucose increases.
Packaged snacks provide portability and portion control, making them the perfect fit for busy lifestyles. Below, we have collected a selection of nutritionally sound snacks suitable for daily consumption that meet the criteria of your intent.
1. Blue Diamond Almonds 100-Calorie Packs
Almonds’ monounsaturated fat, fiber and protein content help in diabetes management along with curbing appetite.
Nutritional Values (per 1-ounce pack):
- Calories count: 100 kcal
- Carbs count: 3g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 9g
How to Make at Home: Roast raw almonds at 350°F for 10–12 minutes with a pinch of sea salt. Portion into small containers. It is easy to make and more diabetes friendly than others.
2. Catalina Crunch Sandwich Cookies
These low-sugar cookies use pea protein to balance blood sugar, offering a sweet treat with minimal glycemic impact.
Nutritional Values (per 2 cookies):
- Calories: 90 kcal
- Carbs: 5g (net carbs: 2g)
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 6g
How to Make at Home: Blend almond flour, monk fruit sweetener, and cocoa powder for low-carb cookie dough. Sandwich with sugar-free cream filling.
3. Chomps Beef Sticks
The zero-carb beef sticks are perfect for diabetics as protein aids in managing post-meal glucose levels. (Post-meal glucose levels are defined as the blood sugar levels that are checked after eating, usually 1 -2 hours after the meal.)
Nutritional Values (per stick):
- Calories: 90 kcal
- Carbs: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 9g
- Fat: 6g
How to make at home: Combine ground beef, garlic, and paprika, shape into sticks and bake at 200F for 4-5 hours.
4. Good Culture Low-Fat Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese is a good source of protein and aids in better insulin sensitivity as well as slows the rate of digestion.
Energetics (per ½ cup serving)
- Calories: 80 kcal
- Carbs: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 14g
- Fat: 2.5g
How to Make: Skim milk can be curdled with lemon juice, and after straining, it can be blended until smooth.
5. Smartfood Popcorn (White Cheddar)
An excellent example of a low-cal snack which contains a moderate value of carbohydrates along with fiber, making whole grain popcorn an ideal choice.
Energetics (per 1 ounce serving)
- Calories Count: 100 kilocalories
- Carbs: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 4g
How to Make at Home: Air-pop popcorn and toss with grated cheddar and a pinch of salt.
Wondering if people with diabetes can eat popcorn? Here’s where you can find out how and at what level it’s safe.
6. Biena Roasted Chickpea Snacks
The high fiber and protein content in chickpeas contributes to lowering the glycemic load and increasing satiety.
Nutritional Values (per 1-ounce serving):
- Calories: 120 kilocalories
- Carbs: 18g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 3g
How to Make at Home: Combine canned chickpeas with olive oil and spices before roasting at 400°F for 25-30 minutes.
7. IQ Bar (Peanut Butter Chip)
The goal of making low-net-carb snack bars is to prevent spikes in blood glucose due to added fiber and protein.
Nutritional Values (per bar):• Calories: 160 kilocalories
- Carbs: 11g (net carbs: 3g)
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 10g
How to Make at Home: Mix almond butter, pea protein powder, and monk fruit sweetener, press into a pan, and chill.
8. GoGo SqueeZ YogurtZ
Low-sugar yogurt pouches provide protein and are portable, supporting diabetes-friendly snacking.
Nutritional Values (per pouch):
- Calories: 90 kilocalories
- Carbs: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 2g
How to Make at Home: Blend plain Greek yogurt with a small amount of fruit, pour into reusable pouches, and refrigerate.
9. Whisps Cheese Crisps
Low-carb, high-protein cheese crisps are a crunchy, satisfying alternative to chips.
Nutritional Values (per 1-ounce serving):
- Calories: 150
- Carbs: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 12g
How to Make at Home: Simply sprinkle shredded cheddar in small circles on a parchment-lined tray, bake in your oven at 400°F for 5–7 minutes.
10. Munk Pack Nut & Seed Bars
High-fiber, low-sugar bars support stable blood sugar and prolonged satiety. (Contains both Polyols and Oligosaccharides)
Nutritional Values (Per bar):
- Calories: 150 kilocalories
- Carbs: 12g (net carbs: 3g)
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 10g
How to Make at Home: Combine crushed nuts, seeds, and stevia, then bake into bars.
Where to Buy: Amazon, Thrive Market.
11. Simple Mills Spiced Carrot Cake Bars
Nut-based bars with fiber and low added sugars are gentle on blood sugar.
Nutritional Values (per bar):
- Calories: 140
- Carbs: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 7g
How to Make at Home: Blend almond flour, shredded carrots, and spices, then bake into soft bars. Simply, you can buy it from Amazon.
12. Oikos Triple Zero Yogurt
Why It’s Great: Stevia-sweetened, high-protein yogurt supports insulin sensitivity and satiety (feel full longer without spiking blood sugar).
Nutritional Values (per 5.3-ounce container):
- Calories: 100
- Carbs: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 0g
How to Make at Home: Mix plain Greek yogurt with stevia and vanilla extract.
13. Bear YoYo’s Real Fruit Rolls
Why It’s Best: Made with real fruit and no added sugars, these rolls are a low-carb treat.
Nutritional Values (per roll):
- Calories: 60
- Carbs: 13g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
How to Make at Home: To make use of pureed fruit, spread thinly on a baking sheet, dehydrate at 140°F for 6–8 hours.
14. The Gluten Free Bar Protein Bars
Why It’s the Best Choice: It balanced carbs and protein in your snacks make these bars suitable for blood sugar control.
Nutritional Values (per bar):
- Calories count: 190
- Carbs: 24g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 8g
How to Make at Home: Mix gluten-free oats, nut butter, and protein powder, shape into bars, and chill.
Looking for the best protein supplement for diabetes? Discover which ones are safe, effective, and tailored for diabetic needs.
15. Grateful Almond Butter Bars
Why It’s Great: Grain-free and monk fruit-sweetened, these bars are high in healthy fats, supporting stable glucose.
Nutritional Values (per bar):
- Calories: 200
- Carbs: 13g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 15g
How to Make at Home: Simply blend almond butter, coconut flour, and monk fruit sweetener, press into a pan, and refrigerate. Eat it from time to time.
Top Packaged Snacks for Diabetics
Below is a curated list of the best pre-packaged snacks for diabetics, based on recommendations from reputable sources, including Google Scholar’s article and Healthline. Each snack on the table includes nutritional values to support diabetic diet snack choices.
| Snack Name | Calories | Carbs (g) | Fiber (g) | Protein (g) | Why It’s Good |
| SkinnyPop White Cheddar Popcorn | 150 | 15 | 2 | 2 | Vegan, gluten-free, no added sugar. A crunchy alternative to chips. |
| Terra Heritage Blend Chips | 130 | 15 | 2 | 2 | Made from nutrient-rich sweet potatoes, taro, and beets. |
| Food Should Taste Good Black Bean Multigrain Chips | 130 | 16 | 4 | 4 | High in fiber and protein, it pairs well with salsa or guacamole. |
| Harvest Snaps Peas | 130 | 16 | 4 | 5 | High protein and fibre, great for blood sugar control. |
| Mary’s Gone Super Seed Everything Crackers | 150 | 17 | 3 | 5 | Whole grains and seeds pair with cheese or hummus. |
| Hippeas Chickpea Puffs | 130 | 19 | 3 | 4 | Cheesy flavour with fiber and protein, fun for snacking. |
| Sargento Light String Cheese | 45 | <1 | 0წ | Low in carbs and high in protein, Maintain Sugar Level. | |
| Bada Bean Bada Boom Crunchy Broad Beans | 110 | 16 | 4 | 6 | Roasted beans in various flavors, high in protein and fiber. |
| Made Good Soft Baked Chocolate Chip Mini Cookies | 120 | 14 | 1 | 1 | Gluten-free, low-carb, sweetened with vegetable extracts. |
| Teddie All Natural Smooth Peanut Butter | 190 | 7 | 3 | 8 | Pairs well with apple or celery for a balanced snack. |
Online and in most grocery stores, diabetic-friendly snacks can be easily found, maintaining convenience for busy lifestyles.
Guidelines for Purchasing Packaged Snacks for Diabetics
- Check the Nutrition Information: Snacks should contain 15-30g of carbohydrates, a minimum of 3g of fiber, and very little added sugar.
- Avoid Highly Sweetened Snacks: For greater nutrient density and lower glycemic impact, choose nuts, seeds, or legumes.
- Mind the Serving Size: Individually packaged snacks can limit the blood sugar increase associated with overeating.
- Pair with Protein or Fat: Combine higher-carb snacks with protein or fat to slow digestion (Franz et al., 2017).
- Consult a Dietitian: Tailor snack choices to your needs with professional guidance.
Why These Snacks Work for Diabetes Management
These snacks have been chosen to help balance blood sugar levels, maintain consistent energy, and curb cravings. Blood glucose levels fluctuate less due to the steady absorption of carbohydrates that are healthy fats, protein, and fiber. Their small size is convenient for school, work, and travel, which helps strategically in the management of diabetes.
Best Time To Consume Diabetic Friendly Snacks
Have them between meals when blood sugar is stable, like mid-morning or afternoon, to avoid lows without overloading carbs. Pair with protein/fat (e.g., nuts or cheese) and test glucose level with Libre 3 Plus after eating—these diabetic friendly snacks work best as planned bridges to keep levels even. Avoid late-night snacking if it affects your morning readings.
Why Some Packaged Snacks are Challenging
Yes, most are challenging for diabetic patients because many contain hidden sugars, refined carbs, or large portions that cause quick blood sugar rises, plus additives and low fiber make control harder. Even “healthy” ones can sneak in carbs, so always check labels for diabetic friendly snacks and healthy snacks for diabetics. Morover we also recommend you use the Dexcom G7 sensor to check your glucose level before and after eating pre-packaged snacks to response accordingly.
Conclusion
Having diabetes does not require one to omit convenience or taste; the 15 best packaged snacks highlighted here do both simultaneously! These fifteen snack solutions contain yummy options like crunchy chickpeas and creamy yogurt while supporting stable blood sugar levels, helping in blood glucose management. If you want to save money, some of these options can be made at home; however, it is recommended to speak with a healthcare provider first so that the choices align with the management plan.
Leave us a comment telling us your favourite diabetes friendly snacks and share with us if you try any of these recipes!
Frequently Asked Questions
How to choose healthy packaged snacks for diabetics?
Look for options with low total carbs (ideally under 15g per serving), high fiber (at least 3–5g), and good protein or healthy fats to help keep blood sugar stable. Prioritize whole-food ingredients like nuts, seeds, or vegetables over sugary or refined items. These make excellent healthy snacks for diabetics and truly diabetic-friendly snacks.
How can I read nutrition labels on packaged snacks for diabetes management?
Start by checking the serving size, then review total carbohydrates (not just sugars). Aim for lower carb counts and consider net carbs by subtracting fiber if it fits your plan. Watch for added sugars (ideally under 5g) and limit saturated fats. This helps you choose low-carb diabetic snacks packaged that won’t spike blood sugar.
What are the best packaged snacks for diabetics?
Good options include nuts like almonds, cheese sticks, roasted edamame, seed-based crackers, and protein bars that are high in fiber and protein but low in sugar. These diabetic-friendly snacks and healthy snacks for diabetics provide steady energy without major blood sugar swings.
What kind of packaged snacks have low carbs for diabetics?
Choose snacks such as pork rinds, cheese crisps, nut packs, pumpkin seeds, or broad bean snacks. Many of these contain under 5g of carbs per serving. These low-carb diabetic snacks packaged are convenient and help maintain stable glucose levels.
Why are packaged snacks often a challenge for diabetics?
Many packaged snacks contain hidden sugars, refined carbohydrates, or large portion sizes that can quickly raise blood sugar. Low fiber and added additives can also make glucose control harder. Even snacks labeled “healthy” should be checked carefully for diabetic-friendly ingredients.
Why do some diabetic-friendly packaged snacks still raise blood sugar?
Some snacks rely on sugar alcohols, hidden starches, or higher carb content than expected, which can still convert to glucose. Others lack enough fiber or protein to slow digestion, leading to spikes. Choosing truly low-carb diabetic snacks packaged and monitoring your response is key.
Disclaimer:
This article has been prepared by a team of nutrition specialists who have hands-on experience in managing diabetes. Our content is reviewed for accuracy, adheres to recommendations and guidelines of the American Diabetes Association, and is substantiated with peer-reviewed research findings.
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