Typical Serving — Diabetes Nutrition Facts

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Handwa

CARBS

High

PROTEINS

Moderate

FATS

Low

Handwa, a traditional Gujarati snack made from rice, lentils, and vegetables, is not advisable for a low-carb diabetes diet due to its high carbohydrate content.

Quantity: 100 grams

Glycemic Index: High

Glycemic Load: High

Fiber: Moderate

Key Nutrients: Fiber, vitamins from vegetables

Health Impact: Handwa's high carbohydrate content can lead to significant blood sugar spikes, requiring careful management of insulin response and digestion time.

💉 Suggested Bolus

Consider pre-bolusing or splitting the insulin dose to manage the delayed glucose response from the mixed meal.

🍽️ Best Paired With (Veg)

Paneer Salad – High in protein, helps balance meal glycemic load.
Avocado and Spinach Salad – Healthy fats and fiber aid in slower digestion and blood sugar control.

🍽️ Best Paired With (Non Veg)

Grilled Chicken Salad – Protein helps moderate blood sugar levels and increases satiety.
Baked Salmon with Herbs – Omega-3 fatty acids in salmon improve cardiovascular health, important for diabetes management.

🥄 Smart Substitutes

Cauliflower Rice Handwa – Significantly lower in carbs, helps maintain steadier blood glucose levels.
Almond Flour Handwa – Higher in protein and healthy fats, lower in carbs than traditional versions.
Coconut Flour Handwa – Low-carb, gluten-free and adds a mild, sweet flavor without sugar.

⏱ Blood Sugar Timeline

0–15 min: Minimal impact as low-carb substitutes digest more slowly.
30–60 min: Gradual, modest rise in blood sugar due to reduced carb content.
2–3 hr: Blood sugar levels begin to stabilize, avoiding significant spikes.

“Many in the low-carb community find that replacing traditional high-carb ingredients with nutrient-dense, lower-carb alternatives not only helps manage blood sugar levels but also enhances overall meal satisfaction without feeling deprived.”
— BCDF community member

🧠 Lowering Impact Tip

Reduce portion size and pair with high-fiber vegetables or a protein source to slow glucose absorption.

🤔 FAQs about Handwa

Can I eat traditional Handwa if I am managing diabetes?

It's best to opt for low-carb versions of Handwa made with ingredients like almond or coconut flour to better manage blood sugar levels.

How often can I include low-carb Handwa in my diet?

Low-carb Handwa can be a regular part of your diet, considering overall daily carb and calorie intake.

Have a question about Handwa or any other topic related to diabetes?

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