Erin's Cheesecake Low Carb Bites | Diabetes-Friendly Dessert Recip

Balancing your diabetes management and ensuring your glucose stays within a healthy range can be quite daunting. However, fear not! Erin's delectable Cheesecake Bites are here to save the day!

Not only are they simple to whip up with minimal baking required, but they're also gluten-free and perfect for maintaining stable blood sugar levels. Crafted with an almond flour crust, reduced sugar, and topped with coconut and fresh raspberries sans glaze, these treats are a diabetic-friendly delight!

Cheesecake Bites: 

Servings: 8 / about 10g carbs per cheesecake  

Crust:

- 1 1⁄2 cups almond flour (180g)

- 3 tbsp melted coconut oil (45ml)

- 2 tbsp maple syrup or low-GI sweetener (30ml)

- 1 tsp vanilla extract (5ml)

Mix, line 8 muffin tins, distribute, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 mins, then cool.

Cream Cheese Mixture:

- 100g plain Greek yogurt

- 140g low-fat cream cheese

- 3 tbsp maple syrup or low-GI sweetener

- Optional: 1 tsp vanilla extract or lemon zest

Whip together, distribute into crust-lined tins, and cool in the fridge.

Chill overnight or freeze for 1.5 hours. Top with desiccated coconut and fresh raspberries. Enjoy!  

Here are the 10 tips for choosing low-carb foods

1. Read labels carefully: Always check the nutritional information on low-carb foods for total carbohydrates, hidden sugars, and starches. Avoid items high in sugar or processed carbs.

2. Focus on whole foods: Opt for natural low-carb foods like vegetables, meats, fish, and eggs, which are naturally low in carbs and promote better health. (Keywords: whole foods, low-carb vegetables).

3. Avoid processed foods: Processed foods often contain added carbs and sugars. Stick to low-carb snacks and meals that are fresh and unprocessed to maintain control over your carb intake. 

4. Prioritise non-starchy vegetables: Low-carb vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, cauliflower, and zucchini are nutrient-dense and perfect for a low-carb diet. 

5. Choose high-fat dairy: Full-fat dairy products like cheese, cream, and yoghurt are ideal for low-carb diets. They provide flavour while keeping carbs low compared to low-fat alternatives. 

6. Opt for lean proteins: Chicken, turkey, fish, and tofu are excellent low-carb protein options that are filling and nutritious without adding unnecessary carbs.

7. Go for healthy fats: Healthy low-carb fats like avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil can keep you satisfied longer and support your low-carb lifestyle. 

8. Limit fruit intake: While fruits can be healthy, many are high in natural sugars. Stick to low-carb fruits like berries, which are lower in sugar.

9. Swap grains: Replace high-carb grains like rice, pasta, and bread with low-carb alternatives like cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or lettuce wraps to stay on track. 

10. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water or unsweetened beverages. Low-carb drinks like water and tea help you avoid unnecessary sugar and carbs from sugary drinks.