laPizza
CARBS
High
PROTEINS
Moderate
FATS
Moderate
Quantity: 1 slice
Glycemic Index: High
Glycemic Load: High
Fiber: Low
Key Nutrients: Cheese (calcium, protein), tomato sauce (vitamin C, potassium), toppings can vary.
Health Impact: High carbohydrate content can lead to significant blood sugar spikes and require careful insulin management. The digestion time can be prolonged due to the fat content, which may delay the glucose peak.
💉 Suggested Bolus
Consider a dual-wave or extended bolus to manage the delayed glucose response due to fat content.
🍽️ Best Paired With (Veg)
- Greek salad – Low in carbs and high in fiber, helping to moderate blood sugar levels.
- Steamed vegetables – Provide essential nutrients without significant carbohydrate load.
🍽️ Best Paired With (Non Veg)
- Grilled chicken – High in protein, helps to slow digestion and stabilize blood sugar levels.
- Smoked salmon – Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein, supporting cardiovascular health and glycemic control.
🥄 Smart Substitutes
- Cauliflower crust pizza – Significantly lower in carbs, helps manage blood sugar levels better than traditional pizza crust.
- Almond flour crust pizza – Higher in protein and fat, lower in carbs, which can aid in slower glucose release.
- Chicken crust pizza – Contains no carbs and high in protein, supporting stable blood sugar levels.
⏱ Blood Sugar Timeline
- 0–15 min: Minimal impact as low-carb substitutes digest slower, causing less immediate rise in blood sugar.
- 30–60 min: Gradual increase in blood sugar if any, depending on the toppings and their glycemic index.
- 2–3 hr: Blood sugar levels begin to stabilize due to the high protein and fat content, which slow down the overall digestion process.
— BCDF community member
🧠 Lowering Impact Tip
Opt for a pizza with a cauliflower or other low-carb base, increase the amount of cheese and vegetables, and minimize high-carb toppings like pineapple or extra sauce.
🤔 FAQs about laPizza
Can I eat traditional pizza crust on a low-carb diet?
It's best to avoid traditional high-carb pizza crusts as they can cause significant blood sugar spikes. Opt for low-carb alternatives like cauliflower or almond flour crusts.
How do toppings affect blood sugar?
Choosing low-carb toppings such as vegetables, meats, and cheese helps minimize blood sugar spikes compared to high-sugar sauces and fruits.
Have a question about laPizza or any other topic related to diabetes?
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