High Protein Foods for Diabetics

If you're diabetic, it's important to pay close attention to your food choices. High-protein foods effectively help maintain a healthy body weight, and protein also helps reduce the absorption of carbohydrates in the body. Unlike fats and carbohydrates, protein has very little effect on your blood sugar.

Protein-Rich Foods

Protein builds muscle. Foods high in protein include poultry, beef, pork, dairy products, eggs, peanuts, black beans, soy, fish and other seafood. High-protein diets include one or two of these foods in each meal. According to the American Diabetes Association, however, diabetics should consume no more than 20 percent of their calories from protein.

Plant Proteins

Plants are better sources of protein than animal sources, which usually contain saturated fats. Broccoli and cauliflower are protein-rich vegetables that should be included in your diet, along with lean meats or tofu. Vegetables are rich in essential amino acids, fiber, vitamins and minerals.

Milk

Milk is another good source of protein, and it's one of the most accessible foods for a diabetic. Casein, a protein found in milk, can help control blood-sugar levels. Non-fat and low-fat milks that are rich in protein are preferable, because other kinds of milk may contain saturated fats.

Meat and Its Substitutes

For diabetics, lean meat is a better choice than a fatty one. Lean beef, poultry and fish occupy the third largest portion of the diabetes food pyramid. However, the intake of lean meat should be limited to 4 oz. to 6 oz. per day.

Meat substitutes are also great sources of protein. Tofu and other soy-based foods are good substitutes for red meat.

Moderation

While protein-rich foods are healthy choices for diabetics, it is best to eat protein in healthy moderation. Health care specialists believe that too much protein in the diet can lead to kidney trouble and other complications. A high-protein diet may also increase the risk of coronary heart diseases because of the high saturated fat contained in many protein-rich foods. Always seek the advice of a doctor or dietitian.