Tomatoes
CARBS
3.9g
PROTEINS
0.9g
FATS
0.2g
Quantity: 100g
Glycemic Index: 15
Glycemic Load: 1
Fiber: 1.2g
Key Nutrients: Vitamin C, potassium, folate, vitamin K
Health Impact: Tomatoes have a low glycemic index and minimal carbohydrate content, which results in a negligible insulin response and slow digestion time, aiding in stable blood glucose levels.
💉 Suggested Bolus
No specific bolus adjustment needed due to the low glycemic impact.
🍽️ Best Paired With (Veg)
- Avocado salad with cherry tomatoes – Avocados provide healthy fats that can help slow the absorption of sugars and keep you satiated.
- Grilled eggplant with tomato slices – Eggplant is a low-carb vegetable that pairs well with tomatoes for a filling and nutritious meal.
- Spinach and tomato frittata – Eggs and spinach provide high-quality protein and iron, complementing the nutritional profile of tomatoes.
🍽️ Best Paired With (Non Veg)
- Chicken Caprese salad – Lean chicken provides protein, which helps moderate blood sugar levels when paired with low-carb tomatoes.
- Grilled salmon with tomato salsa – Omega-3 fatty acids in salmon enhance heart health, while the tomatoes add freshness without excess carbs.
- Beefsteak tomatoes stuffed with tuna salad – Tuna is a low-carb protein that complements the light, refreshing taste of tomatoes, making for a balanced meal.
🥄 Smart Substitutes
- Cucumbers – Lower in carbohydrates and provide a refreshing taste with a similar texture to tomatoes.
- Bell peppers – Offer a sweet flavor and crunch, with slightly fewer carbs and more vitamin C than tomatoes.
- Zucchini – Has a lower glycemic index and can be used in many dishes as a bulk enhancer with fewer carbs.
⏱ Blood Sugar Timeline
- 0–15 min: Little to no impact on blood sugar due to the low carbohydrate content of tomatoes.
- 30–60 min: Minimal increase in blood sugar, as tomatoes have a low glycemic index.
- 2–3 hr: Blood sugar levels should remain stable, with no significant spikes from consuming tomatoes alone.
— BCDF community member
🧠 Lowering Impact Tip
Consume tomatoes with a source of healthy fats or proteins to further stabilize blood sugar levels.
🤔 FAQs about Tomatoes
Are tomatoes okay for a low-carb diet?
Yes, tomatoes are suitable for a low-carb diet as they are low in carbohydrates and have a minimal impact on blood sugar levels.
Can eating tomatoes help manage diabetes?
Tomatoes can be a part of a balanced diet to manage diabetes, as they have a low glycemic index and contribute to overall nutritional intake without causing significant blood sugar spikes.
How many tomatoes can I eat in a day?
The amount can vary based on individual carbohydrate goals, but generally, tomatoes can be consumed in moderation as part of a low-carb diet.
Have a question about Tomatoes or any other topic related to diabetes?
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