What do you reach for when you get hunger pains? If you have type 2 diabetes you have to think smart. Picking healthy snacks is a must. You don’t have to eat junk food when you snack, but what are your best options? What criteria should I use when it comes to snacking? Some people will look at the glycemic index while others focus on the glycemic load. The glycemic index (GI) is a food assessment tool utilized to predict how foods will impact your blood sugar levels.

This index is based on a sugar called glucose which is given a score of 100. If the food selected falls below 100, its affect will be under glucose, but if its value is over 100, it will affect your blood sugar to be higher. While glycemic load (GL) is a calculation involved in a food’s portion size and its glycemic index. You discover glycemic load (GI/100) by multiplying the total grams of carbohydrate (excluding fiber) in the food. Your sugar in your blood can be raised by a high amount of low glycemic index food as well as a low amount of high glycemic index food. Whether sitting in front of the t.v. or out with friends, when you get snack cravings you have to make the right choices. Check out our list for the best snacks that you can incorporate into your diet:

1. Avocado
You can eat this delicious fruit as a dip or do like I do and just cut it in half remove the pit and eat it with a spoon. It’s high in both fatty acids and fiber.

2. Celery and peanut butter
Wash and cut celery sticks then slather on small amounts of that gooey goodness. The peanut butter will provide protein and the celery will give you antioxidants.

3. Popcorn
This whole grain food is simple to make and 3 cups equal about 100 calories. That’s maybe why it’s the go-to snack for moviegoers.

4. Tuna salad
Mix mayonnaise, celery, onions and tuna in a bowl with a sprinkle of garlic powder and your set. Tuna delivers omega-3 fatty acids and no carbohydrates. I like to spread it on thin slices of cucumber.

5. Banana
Last but not least is this potassium filled fruit that is also rich in carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

When you begin to eat healthy your body will start to crave those healthy foods. Keep your energy up with the right foods and aim for a sugar free diet. Examine food labels and measure out the proper portions.