cashews - 4
CARBS
9g
PROTEINS
5g
FATS
12g
Quantity: 28g (about 4 whole cashews)
Glycemic Index: 25
Glycemic Load: 3
Fiber: 1g
Key Nutrients: Magnesium, Zinc, Iron
Health Impact: Cashews have a low glycemic index and moderate carbohydrate content, which may result in a slower and smaller rise in blood glucose levels compared to high-carb snacks.
💉 Suggested Bolus
Consider a smaller bolus of insulin prior to consumption, or delay bolus timing to match the slower digestion rate of fats and proteins.
🍽️ Best Paired With (Veg)
- Avocado Salad – High in healthy fats and fiber, helps in slowing down the absorption of sugars.
- Cheese Platter – Provides protein and fat, which help in moderating blood sugar levels post-meal.
- Grilled Tofu – Low in carbs and high in protein, aiding in steady blood glucose levels.
🍽️ Best Paired With (Non Veg)
- Grilled Chicken – High in protein and virtually no carbs, supporting stable blood glucose levels.
- Salmon Fillet – Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein, beneficial for heart health and glycemic control.
- Beef Steak – Provides high-quality protein and fats, minimal impact on blood sugar.
🥄 Smart Substitutes
- Almonds – Lower in carbs and higher in fiber, helping to control blood sugar levels more effectively.
- Walnuts – Rich in omega-3 fatty acids which can improve heart health without spiking blood sugar.
- Pecans – Lower in carbs than cashews and provide antioxidants that are beneficial for metabolic health.
- Macadamia Nuts – Very low in carbs and high in healthy fats, making them ideal for blood sugar management.
⏱ Blood Sugar Timeline
- 0–15 min: Minimal impact as nuts have low glycemic index.
- 30–60 min: Slight increase in blood sugar due to some carbs in nuts.
- 2–3 hr: Blood sugar levels should stabilize due to the high fat and protein content in nuts.
— BCDF community member
🧠 Lowering Impact Tip
Pair cashews with a source of protein or fiber to further slow the absorption of carbohydrates.
🤔 FAQs about cashews - 4
Can eating nuts affect my blood sugar?
Nuts generally have a minimal impact on blood sugar due to their low carbohydrate and high healthy fat content.
How many nuts can I eat?
Portion control is key. A small handful (about 1 ounce) per serving is recommended to avoid excessive calorie intake.
Are cashews a good snack for diabetics?
While cashews are higher in carbs than other nuts, they can still be part of a diabetic diet in moderation, especially when paired with other low-carb foods.
Have a question about cashews - 4 or any other topic related to diabetes?
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