These shelf-stable pantry staples are great to have on hand for blood-sugar-friendly meals, snacks and more.
And guess what: canned foods are a convenient way to make this possible.
We spoke to nutrition experts to find out which canned foods are best for blood sugar.

Photo:Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Julian Hensarling, Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle
7 Best Canned Foods for Blood Sugar
1.
A 3-ounce serving of canned chicken has 21 grams of protein.Try it in thisCreamy Broccoli-Cauliflower Chicken Casserole.
The fiber in canned veggies slows digestion, which helps prevent blood sugar spikes.
Canned veggies are incredibly versatile and can be tossed into casseroles and soups, like thisSlow-Cooker Vegetable Soup.
it’s possible for you to also use them as a simple side dish.
Look for low-sodium or no-salt-added options to limit sodium intake.
Check out our list ofpantry dinners with canned vegetablesfor inspiration.
Canned Tomatoes
Youre better off always having a couple of cans of tomatoes in your pantry.
Need inspiration for how to use them?
Here are14 budget-friendly, dietitian-approved recipesusing canned tomatoes.
Add canned beans to soups, salads and grain bowls, she recommends.
Canned Pumpkin
Canned pumpkin is rich in fiber and vitamin A. ThisPumpkin & Black Bean Soupthat combines two blood-sugar-friendly canned foods.
Canned Fruit
Canned fruit is a convenient and affordable option for managing blood sugar.
For example, try adding canned fruit to low-fat Greek yogurt or cottage cheese for a satisfying blood-sugar-friendly snack.
EatingWell.com, May 2024
U.S. Department of Agriculture.
FoodData Central.Fish, tuna, white, canned in water, drained solids
U.S. Department of Agriculture.
FoodData Central.Salmon, sockeye, canned, total can contents
Welty FK.Omega-3 fatty acids and cognitive function.Curr Opin Lipidol.
2023;34(1):12-21. doi:10.1097/MOL.0000000000000862
U.S. Department of Agriculture.
FoodData Central.Chicken, canned, no broth.
U.S. Department of Agriculture.
FoodData Central.Black beans, from canned, reduced sodium.
U.S. Department of Agriculture.
U.S. Department of Agriculture.
FoodData Central.Pumpkin, canned, without salt.