Standard Serving — Diabetes Nutrition Facts

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https://www.bluecircle.foundation/food/lemon-rice

Lemon rice

CARBS

45g

PROTEINS

FATS

10g

Lemon rice is a high-carbohydrate dish primarily made from white rice, which is not advisable for individuals managing diabetes due to its potential to cause significant blood glucose spikes.

Quantity: 1 cup (approximately 150g)

Glycemic Index: 73

Glycemic Load: 33

Fiber: 1g

Key Nutrients: Vitamin C from lemon, some fats from cooking oil, minimal protein.

Health Impact: The high carbohydrate content and high glycemic index can lead to rapid increases in blood sugar levels, requiring careful insulin management and potentially impacting long-term metabolic control.

💉 Suggested Bolus

Consider pre-bolusing insulin or using a dual-wave bolus to manage the rapid glucose rise from the high glycemic index of the rice.

🍽️ Best Paired With (Veg)

Grilled Tofu – High in protein, complements the meal without adding carbs.
Stir-fried Spinach – Adds fiber and micronutrients with minimal impact on blood sugar.

🍽️ Best Paired With (Non Veg)

Grilled Chicken Breast – Provides high-quality protein that helps modulate blood glucose levels.
Pan-Seared Salmon – Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, supports overall health and has a very low carb content.

🥄 Smart Substitutes

Cauliflower Rice with Lemon Zest – Significantly lower in carbs, helps maintain stable blood glucose levels.
Broccoli Rice with Lemon Zest – Provides a low-carb alternative with added fiber and nutrients.

⏱ Blood Sugar Timeline

0–15 min: Minimal impact as low-carb substitutes do not cause rapid glucose spikes.
30–60 min: Stable blood sugar due to low glycemic index of substitutes.
2–3 hr: Continued stable blood glucose, preventing late postprandial spikes.

“Many in the low-carb community find that replacing traditional high-carb staples with vegetable-based alternatives not only helps in managing blood sugar but also enhances overall nutrient intake.”
— BCDF community member

🧠 Lowering Impact Tip

Replace white rice with a lower-carb alternative like cauliflower rice to significantly reduce the carbohydrate content.

🤔 FAQs about Lemon rice

Can I eat lemon rice on a low-carb diet?

Traditional lemon rice is high in carbs; consider substituting with cauliflower or broccoli rice seasoned with lemon zest for a similar flavor but fewer carbs.

How does cauliflower rice impact blood sugar compared to regular rice?

Cauliflower rice has a much lower glycemic index than regular rice, leading to less significant blood sugar spikes and better overall glucose management.

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