Thanksgiving Side Dishes to Keep Blood Sugar in Check
Shanthi Appelo, MS, RD
| 2 min read
Thanksgiving is a celebration of abundance – a spread full of golden turkey, creamy mashed potatoes, rich stuffing, family recipes and a lineup of pies. For those managing diabetes, this traditional spread can pose a challenge. However, it is possible to enjoy the feast without sending your blood sugar soaring.
The foundation of a diabetes-friendly Thanksgiving starts with building a balanced plate. Aim for half your plate filled with non-starchy vegetables like colorful salads, roasted Brussels, carrots and squash - which provide volume, fiber and nutrients without spiking glucose. A quarter of your plate should focus on lean protein, such as turkey and the remaining quarter reserved for carbohydrate foods.
It’s all about the trio of fiber, fat and protein. These nutrients slow digestion and the release of glucose into your bloodstream, preventing rapid spikes that can follow a high-carb meal.
Here are three crowd-pleasing recipes that bring the spirit of Thanksgiving to life while keeping your numbers in check:
A creamy alternative to mashed potatoes that’s just as comforting but much lower in overall carbohydrates and higher in fiber.
Packed with fiber, crunch and seasonal ingredients like kale, nuts and roasted squash, this salad brings color and balance to your plate.
A naturally sweet and portion-friendly side that delivers complex carbs, antioxidants and all the cozy fall flavors you crave.
