A Diabetes- Friendly Guide to a Healthy Thanksgiving Plate:
Thanksgiving is all about eating… and being with your loved ones, of course!
With so many foods and snacks available, how can you make healthy choices that will keep your blood sugar stable? Use this “Thanksgiving Plate” as a visual guide for what foods to choose and how to balance your plate.
This Thanksgiving, Eat More! (Non-starchy veggies, that is!)
Non-starchy vegetables dish up loads of flavor, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber without lots of calories and carbs. Consider adding the following non-starchy vegetables to your Thanksgiving feast this year:
- Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are low in carbs and high in nutrients. They can be used in salads or sautéed as a side dish.
- Cruciferous Vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts are excellent choices. Roasting them with a bit of olive oil and seasoning can bring out their natural flavors.
- Bell Peppers: These colorful veggies are crunchy and sweet. Use them in a salad or as a raw snack with a healthy dip.
- Zucchini: This versatile vegetable can be spiralized into noodles or grilled for a flavorful side.
- Mushrooms: Low in calories and carbs, mushrooms add umami flavor to dishes. Try them stuffed, sautéed, or added to a casserole.
- Asparagus: This elegant vegetable can be roasted or steamed, making it a great addition to any holiday plate.
- Green Beans: A classic Thanksgiving side, green beans can be tossed with garlic and almonds for added flavor.
- Radishes: These crunchy veggies can be eaten raw in salads or roasted for a caramelized flavor.
- Cucumbers: Refreshing and hydrating, cucumbers can be sliced for salads or served with a dip.
- Celery: Crisp and low in carbs, celery sticks make a great snack or a crunchy addition to salads.
By incorporating these non-starchy vegetables into your Thanksgiving menu, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal while also keeping your carbohydrate intake in check. Happy Thanksgiving!
Source: https://www.adces.org/