Choosing the optimal protein sources for diabetes can help keep glucose levels healthy and more consistent.

Carbs seem to get the spotlight when it comes to eating for diabetes.

In fact, theAmerican Diabetes Associationspecifically recommends eating fish and seafood at least two times per week.

Salmon Rice Bowl

Photo: Ali Redmond

One major reason seafood is recommended may be because of the omega-3 fatty acids that this protein provides.

The protein in fish can also help with blood sugar management.

Together, these two factors can benefit those with diabetes.

This can be especially important since people with diabetes are at an increased risk of developing this condition.

Eating something likeVegan Lentil Soupis a tasty way to include more of these pulses in your diet.

Not a tofu fan?

Snacking onedamameor including tempeh in your diet can help you reap the benefits of soy too.

Tofu can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes, including aMushroom & Tofu Stir-FryandBeefless Vegan Tacos.

Theunsaturated fatsincluding monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acidspresent in nuts may play a role in glucose control and appetite suppression.

Eggs

Eggs are an all-around nutrient powerhouse.

Eggs naturally have 0 g of carbohydrates.

Additionally, the results showed that egg consumption did not have a negative impact on total cholesterol levels.

Eggs are included among the food items to include weekly.

Enjoy anAvocado & Smoked Salmon OmeletorAvocado-Egg Toastto include more eggs in your diet.

Chicken

Chicken is one of the most popular protein sources, and rightfully so.

Breaded and fried chicken dishes should be limited when on a diabetes-friendly diet.

Instead, chicken dishes likeSheet-Pan Chicken FajitasandBaked Lemon-Pepper Chickenare great options that are lower in added fat and sodium.