When it comes to balancing blood sugar levels, the first thing that usually comes to mind is limiting added sugar. From table sugar to high fructose corn syrup, brown sugar, dextrose, fruit juice concentrate, turbinado, malt sugar, maltodextrin—and the list goes on—added sugar is often disguised under many different names. If you do choose to consume sugar, it’s best to reach for items that contain coconut nectar, stevia, or raw honey. While keeping your sugar intake to a minimum is important, blood sugar management isn’t just about what foods you should limit. There are also key nutrients that you should add to your diet to help stabilize your blood sugar. Those nutrients include fiber, protein, and healthy fats. Here’s a list of things to eat to help balance your blood sugar:

• Fiber – Fiber is an incredible carbohydrate found in leafy greens, legumes, nuts, seeds, fruits and vegetables. It bypasses digestion without being broken down into sugar molecules. This means it won’t raise blood sugar levels.  Aim for 25-38 grams of fiber per day.
• Protein – Protein stabilizes blood glucose levels and helps to prevent blood sugar spikes by slowing the absorption of sugar. 
• Healthy Fats – Healthy fats found in avocado, olive oil, nuts and seeds balance blood sugar levels, especially when they are balanced with adequate amounts of protein and fiber. Healthy fats, protein and fiber also help to control hunger due to their extreme satiety.