How Much Bread Can You Eat with Diabetes? "People with diabetes can eat bread as long as it fits either their meal plan or within their carbohydrate counting allowance," says Kitty Broihier, M.S., RD, LD. "In general, that means choosing a slice that has 15 grams of carbohydrates for sandwiches."
Even high-quality, whole grain starches elevate blood glucose to some degree, so it's still important to limit portions — stick with ½ to ¾ cup cooked grains or just 1 slice of bread at meals.
As a starting point, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) advises that breads made from whole grains like whole-wheat bread are fine in moderation for people with type 2 diabetes, although they should avoid white bread.
Toasted bread is pretty different from untoasted bread. It is lower in GI, fat, and cholesterol and contains complex carbs and fiber, making it suitable for diabetics. The American Diabetes Association recommends whole grain or 100% whole-wheat bread over white bread.
An average person can consume up to 8 slices of white bread per day. Make sure though to balance that consumption with other carbohydrates sources. For example, you may replace 3 slices of bread with 1 large potato or have 1 medium potato and 1 slice of bread.
Toast isn't better for you than plain bread, but if you're unwell or have digestive problems, it's a wise choice. Dr Niket Sonpal insists that toasting bread doesn't “kill nutrients or lower its nutritional value. Vitamins and minerals are still within the bread”.
Toast provides carbohydrates and some fiber, depending on the type of bread used. However, toast is low in protein, fat and nutrients, so other foods will typically be required to make a healthy breakfast. In general, a healthy breakfast contains one or more servings chosen from dairy, protein and fruits or vegetables.
Bread. Foods that contain processed white flour and sugar — such as white bread, cinnamon rolls, English muffins, and bagels — are low in nutrients but high in carbohydrates. They offer little nutritional benefit and can trigger a blood glucose spike.
Spread no-sugar-added peanut, almond, or other nut butter on whole-grain toast. Look for bread with at least 3 grams of fiber per slice. Top with fresh fruit, such as slices of strawberries or raspberries. You can also swap the bread for whole-grain waffles or pancakes.
Carbohydrates. When you have diabetes, watching how many carbs you eat is very important. Carbs are the nutrient with the most impact on blood sugar. Depending on your meal plan and how many carbs you aim to eat per meal, most people benefit from choosing a bread with 15 to 20 grams or less of carbs per serving.
If you have type 2 diabetes breakfast cereals made with wholegrains can help to manage blood glucose levels, they release glucose more slowly as they are low GI. Weetabix, Oatibix and Shredded Wheat can make for good choices.
Milk and dairy foods – reduced or low-fat varieties of milk and dairy foods are the best choices for people with diabetes. Bread – wholegrain, fruit loaf and sourdough.
Can people with diabetes have sandwiches? Yes, sandwiches are fine in moderation. Keep in mind that whole grain breads, soft taco shells, and wraps are better choices for controlling blood sugar than white bread. Lean meats, low-fat cheese, and plenty of vegetables make good sandwich choices.
GOOD FOR DIABETICS: People who have diabetes should eat toasted bread rather than plain bread.
Yes, people with diabetes can eat eggs. They provide us with protein and other important nutrients, so make sure to check our recipes for inspiration and ideas. You should be eating some food from the protein group as part of your healthy, balanced diet.
However, in general, cheese on toast is likely to be safe for most diabetics to eat in moderation. Cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, both of which are important for maintaining good health. It is also relatively low in carbohydrates, making it a relatively diabetes-friendly food.
People with type 2 diabetes should limit or avoid high-fat cuts of meat, such as regular ground beef, bologna, hot dogs, sausage, bacon, and ribs, because like full-fat dairy, they're high in saturated fats, explains Kimberlain.
A Full English Breakfast is a great choice for a protein-packed breakfast that can help you achieve great blood glucose levels.
Don't fret; you can still enjoy a slice of your favorite toast in the morning. As long as you're keeping your blood sugar levels in mind, experts say there's nothing wrong with eating bread when you have diabetes.
Target blood sugar levels differ for everyone, but generally speaking: if you monitor yourself at home – a normal target is 4-7mmol/l before eating and under 8.5-9mmol/l two hours after a meal.
A Nutritionally Balanced Pair
Eggs and toast – they're a match made in food heaven, and compliment each other well nutritionally. Eggs provide a source of protein and fat, while toast is a source of complex carbohydrates.
Both are great choices, providing a decent amount of carbohydrates, especially when we consider that the recommendation is 1g to 1.2g of carbohydrates per kilogram of bodyweight, one to three hours before exercise.
When is best to eat toast? Because whole-grains are hi-density and nutrient-dense, it means wholegrain toast is perfect at breakfast as it gets your metabolism running and helps to make you feel full and energised to start off the day. Wheat toast is also good as a quick and easy snack.