Camping Food for Diabetics

Camping Food for Diabetics

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For those living with diabetes every day, eating right and staying active is very important. When camping, packing and preparing the right combination of foods will keep the diabetic on track with their diet. Another consideration is choosing foods that are easy to prepare and serve while at a remote campsite. Eating three meals a day and supplementing hunger with low-fat, high-protein healthy snacks will assure that someone with diabetes can maintain blood sugar levels and still enjoy a fulfilling vacation.

Breakfast

Breakfast is one of the most important meals of the day---especially for diabetics. Eating a healthy breakfast gives the body the energy and fuel it needs to be physically active. Choosing a breakfast that is high in protein and low in sugar will keep energy levels up and blood sugar levels down. A small propane stove or tripod grill and a griddle will assist with cooking this meal. One egg can be either fried in the pan or poached in a poacher over the fire. Two strips of smoked bacon or two links of turkey sausage can be also be served. A slice of whole grain bread can be toasted slightly to finish off the meal. Packing vegetable oil spreads and other food in a cooler with ice will keep them cold and prevent spoiling.

Lunch

Lunch options may include foods that have a low glycemic index. A glycemic index is a method of measuring how a carbohydrate in a food raises blood sugar levels. Foods high in glycemic index such as white bread and processed foods should be avoided. Making lower glycemic level choice foods will also keep blood sugars down and maintain energy throughout the day. Examples may be bean soup, lean turkey on rye bread and fresh salad greens and shredded cheddar cheese.

Dinner

Many busy campers work up an appetite for a nutritious and wholesome meal. One way to prepare foods for diabetics is to utilize a Dutch oven. Any kind of meat can be slow-cooked in the Dutch oven. Canned vegetables that contain carrots, celery and potatoes can be added along with water to make a broth. Kabobs that include lean meats such as steak or chicken, onions and tri-colored peppers make a satisfying dinner. Fresh fish such as walleye or salmon caught from a nearby lake tastes great either grilled or smoked over a fire.

Snack

Snacks are a great way for diabetics to refuel throughout the day. One way to do this is to bring prepared snacks from the store or from home. Individual packages of peanuts or sunflower seeds are great snack options. Homemade trail mix with nuts, pumpkin seeds, pretzels, granola, soybeans and dried apples are great for taking on hikes. Bran muffins with walnuts or flax seed are also an energizing yet wholesome snack.

Drinks

Choosing low-fat and low-sugar drinks is essential in staying fueled while camping. Preparing large batches of sugar-free drinks or energy drinks from powdered mixes allows for easy refills throughout the day. To spruce up bottled water, add a few squeezes of fresh lemon or lime juice.

Article Written By Julie Boehlke

Julie Boehlke is a seasoned copywriter and content creator based in the Great Lakes state. She is a member of the Society of Professional Journalists. Boehlke has more than 10 years of professional writing experience on topics such as health and wellness, green living, gardening, genealogy, finances, relationships, world travel, golf, outdoors and interior decorating. She has also worked in geriatrics and hospice care.

Write for Trails.com
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