7 best foods to help keep blood sugar levels steady

In the evening, when blood sugar levels can be more challenging to manage, certain foods can help keep them steady. Three such foods are nuts, apples with nut butter, and pumpkin seeds.

Nuts are a great snack option due to their combination of protein, healthy fats, fiber, and minerals like magnesium and zinc. Regular consumption of nuts around meal times can lead to a reduction in post-meal blood sugar levels. Whether you prefer almonds, pistachios, walnuts, or other types, having a handful of nuts after 5 p.m. can be beneficial.

Apples, rich in fiber, help stabilize blood sugar levels by slowing digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness. They also contain fructose, which raises blood sugar more gradually than glucose. Pairing apples with nut butter, such as natural peanut butter, adds additional fiber, protein, and healthy fats. This combination optimizes digestion and the rate at which carbohydrates are broken down into the bloodstream, providing sustained energy without causing a spike or crash in blood sugar levels.

Pumpkin seeds, rich in fiber, magnesium, zinc, protein, and healthy fats, are also excellent for blood sugar stabilization. Research indicates that consuming a 2-ounce serving of pumpkin seeds within a meal can result in lower blood sugar levels after eating compared to meals without seeds. Magnesium, found in pumpkin seeds, helps the body convert food into energy, potentially improving blood sugar levels and reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.