When it comes to sweets, cheesecake is one of those time-honored classics that almost everyone seems to like eating. However, if you have diabetes, you might be curious about whether or not you are still able to enjoy this delectable treat. After all, cheesecake is loaded with sugar and carbs, both of which are known to raise a person’s blood sugar levels when consumed in sufficient quantities.
But here’s the thing— you don’t have to give up cheesecake just because you have diabetes! You can actually make this sugary delicacy work for your diet with only a few adjustments. So, is cheesecake okay for people with diabetes? Let’s take a look.
A Closer Look into Cheesecakes
With its velvety consistency and sweet flavor, cheesecake is at the top of the list of favorite sweets for many people. A cheesecake layer is usually created with cream cheese, ricotta cheese, cottage cheese, eggs, and sugar. Typically, there is yet another layer of cheesecake placed on top of this one.
Most cheesecakes incorporate crushed graham crackers or cookies for their bottom crust. Other cheesecakes don’t have a bottom crust at all. Vanilla extract is the flavoring most commonly used in traditional cheesecakes; however, cheesecakes may also be found in various tastes, ranging from chocolate to pumpkin spice.
Is Cheesecake Healthy?
Most cheesecakes are relatively heavy in fat and carbohydrates, and they also offer some protein thanks to the dairy products and eggs that are vital in the recipe. Due to the fact that they are sweetened, cheesecakes almost always include a large amount of added sugar. For instance, one 100-gram portion of the chocolate cheesecake mentioned earlier has 21.2 grams of added sugar. That’s the same as more than five teaspoons’ worth of sugar.
To accommodate those attempting to limit the number of carbohydrates they consume, specific cheesecakes are prepared using substances such as sweeteners that are low in calories or contain no calories. These types of cheesecakes are okay for diabetics. Compared to regular cheesecakes, the cheesecakes made using these items have fewer carbohydrates and, depending on the product, fewer calories.
Because cheesecake is generally created from dairy, which does not work well with many people’s diets, some firms offer vegan cheesecake products manufactured with substances such as coconut and pea protein. However, just because it does not include dairy products does not mean that it is a healthier alternative to regular cheesecake in terms of the calories and sugar it contains.
Although the serving size is more significant than the other desserts on the chart, the vegan cheesecake product has the most critical calories and the same sugar as the chocolate cheesecake product.
When shopping for cheesecake, it is essential to carefully examine the product’s label for information on its nutrition and ingredients.In general, the classic cheesecake is a dessert that is heavy in calories, high in sugar, and high in fat.
The Benefits of Cheesecake for Diabetics
First things first: Let’s talk about the benefits of cheesecake for people with diabetes. This sweet treat is loaded with sugar and carbohydrates, both of which can cause an increase in one’s blood sugar levels, as was previously indicated. However, a few benefits of eating cheesecake are worth mentioning.
Cheesecake has a respectable amount of protein. This vitamin contributes to the regulation of blood sugar levels and has the potential to make you feel filled for longer, which can help you avoid overeating. Additionally, cheesecake contains calcium, which is essential for maintaining bone health. And last but not least, this dessert also has vitamins A and C, which are necessary for immunity and overall health.
How to Enjoy Cheesecake as a Diabetic?
Now that we’ve discussed the benefits of cheesecake for people with diabetes, let’s discuss how to enjoy this sweet treat in a way that works for your diet. First and foremost, it’s essential to have portion control when eating cheesecake. We recommend cutting your slice in half or quarters, so you’re consuming only a few carbs and calories at a time.
Additionally, toppings can add a lot of extra sugar to your slice of cheesecake. To keep things healthier, top your dessert with fresh fruit instead of sugary sauces or syrups. And lastly, be sure to pair your dessert with a portion of protein-rich food such as nuts or Greek yogurt to help regulate blood sugar levels.
The Nutritional Profile of Cheesecakes
The fact that conventional cheesecake is heavy in calories, fat, and carbs is not something that should come as a surprise to anybody. After all, cheese, eggs, and sugar make up the majority of the ingredients for cheesecake. However, depending on the ingredients that go into each cheesecake’s construction, some variations may be in the cheesecake’s nutritional profiles.
The Final Verdict
Cheesecake doesn’t have to be off-limits just because you have diabetes. With a few tweaks, this classic dessert can fit into your diet in a way that works for you. Be sure to portion control when eating and top your slice with fresh fruit instead of sugary toppings. Consuming a protein-rich meal along with your dessert can be healthy for a number of reasons, including the fact that it can help stabilize blood sugar levels.
At Supermoon Cheesecakes, we are proud to offer a variety of delicious cheesecake options that are perfect for people with diabetes. Whether you’re craving classic or vegan, we’ve got something to suit your tastes and nutritional needs. Order your cheesecake today and start enjoying all the benefits it has to offer.
