Cornflower
CARBS
76.7g
PROTEINS
6.9g
FATS
1.3g
Quantity: 100g
Glycemic Index: High
Glycemic Load: High
Fiber: 0.9g
Key Nutrients: Primarily carbohydrates with minimal protein and fat.
Health Impact: Cornflower can lead to significant blood sugar spikes due to its high carbohydrate content and lack of fiber, which can result in a quick and high insulin response and rapid digestion.
💉 Suggested Bolus
If used, consider pre-bolusing insulin to manage the rapid increase in blood sugar.
🍽️ Best Paired With (Veg)
- Grilled tofu – High in protein and low in carbs, complements low-carb flours well in maintaining blood sugar levels.
- Zucchini noodles – Very low in carbohydrates, helping to keep the overall meal low-carb and diabetic-friendly.
🍽️ Best Paired With (Non Veg)
- Grilled chicken breast – High in protein and virtually no carbs, supports stable blood glucose levels.
- Pan-seared salmon – Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and low in carbs, beneficial for heart health and glycemic control.
🥄 Smart Substitutes
- Almond flour – Lower in carbs and higher in fiber, helps manage blood sugar levels.
- Coconut flour – Low in carbs, high in fiber and aids in maintaining a stable glycemic index.
- Flaxseed meal – Very low in carbohydrates and high in omega-3 fatty acids, which can improve heart health.
⏱ Blood Sugar Timeline
- 0–15 min: Minimal impact as low-carb substitutes do not spike blood glucose levels rapidly.
- 30–60 min: Stable blood sugar due to slow digestion and absorption of nutrients.
- 2–3 hr: Continued stable blood glucose levels, preventing late postprandial spikes.
— BCDF community member
🧠 Lowering Impact Tip
Use sparingly or substitute with lower-carb thickeners like xanthan gum or guar gum.
🤔 FAQs about Cornflower
Can I use cornflower in a low-carb diet?
Cornflower itself is higher in carbs. It's better to use alternatives like almond flour or coconut flour for a truly low-carb diet.
How do low-carb flours affect blood sugar compared to regular flour?
Low-carb flours such as almond or coconut flour have a minimal impact on blood sugar levels, making them ideal for managing diabetes.
Are there any other benefits to using low-carb flour substitutes?
Yes, besides stabilizing blood sugar, they often provide additional nutrients such as fiber and healthy fats, which can support overall health.
Have a question about Cornflower or any other topic related to diabetes?
From the blog
Empowering the diabetes community with expert insights, support, and resources.