For diabetics, the best cream cheese choice balances low carbs, moderate fat, and low sodium, with options like Neufchâtel (lower fat), full-fat cream cheese (in moderation for low-carb diets), or probiotic-rich cultured varieties (like Nancy's) being good considerations, but always check labels for added sugars or excessive sodium and focus on portion control, pairing with fiber-rich foods.
Yes, you can eat cream cheese if you're diabetic. The trick is to choose a low-carb brand and eat small portions of it with a low-carb food like fruit or vegetables. You can buy cream cheese spreads that are made with lower amounts of sugar and fat than regular cream cheeses--and they taste great!
Bagels with cream cheese are high in refined carbs and low in protein and fiber, which can cause rapid blood sugar spikes. Adding cream cheese provides some fat but minimal benefit in slowing digestion or stabilizing blood sugar.
Good Dee's Just Add Water Cream Cheese, Keto Friendly, Low Carb & Gluten Free, Atkins & WW Friendly with no Added Sugars - 8.5 oz.
Cottage cheese.
Many dairy products are high in carbohydrates, but the protein in cottage cheese can keep blood sugars more stable.
An avocado-based mayo can be a healthier alternative.
8 Simple Snacks That Won't Spike Your Blood Sugar
Philadelphia is one of the best brands of keto-friendly cream cheese. A 2-tablespoon serving of Philadelphia cream cheese contains 102 calories, 10 grams of fat, 1.8 grams of protein, and only 1.6 grams of carbohydrates. It's recommended to opt for plain or full-fat Philadelphia cream cheese for the keto diet.
Fish and Chips
You can still enjoy it even if you have diabetes, but there are some things you need to keep in mind. First, you can order a smaller portion to limit the carbs and optimise the other macronutrients. Second, you can try removing the batter from the fish.
People with type 2 diabetes should limit or avoid high-fat cuts of meat and meat products, such as regular ground beef, ribs, bacon, bologna, hot dogs, and sausage. Like full-fat dairy, these meats are high in saturated fats, says Kimberlain.
Examples of the worst foods for diabetics include:
Diabetic Biscuit
For example, dark chocolate is a richer, less sweet alternative to white or milk chocolate. Some people with diabetes enjoy fruit as a filling and nutritious substitute to satisfy a sweet craving. Fruits like mashed banana or applesauce can also be used to naturally sweeten baked goods.
Diabetics can freely enjoy non-starchy vegetables (leafy greens, broccoli, peppers), lean proteins (fish, chicken, beans, tofu), healthy fats (avocado, nuts, olive oil), and some fruits (berries, apples, citrus) and whole grains (quinoa, oats) in moderation, focusing on whole foods, fiber, and portion control to manage blood sugar. Key is balancing meals around non-starchy veggies, choosing low-GI carbs, and limiting added sugars and refined grains.
✨ DID YOU KNOW you can substitute cream cheese with cottage cheese for a healthier option? ✨ While cream cheese is high in fat and calories, cottage cheese is lighter, creamier, and higher in protein, making it great for muscle building 🏋️♂️ and weight management.
Cream cheese is made from dairy products, so it does go bad. Signs cream cheese has spoiled include visible mold, slime, discoloration, a sour or rancid smell, or a grainy texture. If your cream cheese has any of these signs, or if you're in doubt, toss it.
Multiple studies have pointed to the benefits of eating oily/fattier fish in improving heart health and even reducing issues related to diabetes. Tuna is an accessible and affordable way to get more fish into your diabetes diet—and it can be pretty delicious to boot.
According to The Cleveland Clinic, olive oil and vinegar may provide substantial health benefits for those with diabetes. Combine three parts olive oil with one-part balsamic vinegar in a jar. Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a bit of tang, a pinch of garlic powder, and a sprinkle of black pepper and salt.
Fried Chicken Restaurants
In general, poultry is a smart choice while following a diabetes-friendly diet—except when it's breaded or dipped in flour and fried. This version adds not just carbs but saturated fat and calories as well to menu items at restaurants like KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken) and Popeyes.