“When we think Italian, we think pizza!” says Shahzadi Devje, RD, CDE, a dietitian in private practice in Toronto. “People with diabetes often steer clear of pizza, concerned that such a choice will not only throw their blood sugars out of whack — but also that it’s also loaded with calories, fat, and salt. These are valid concerns, but it really depends on the crust and the toppings of the pizza you select.”
Choose a thin-crust pizza, and get the higher-fiber whole-wheat variety when available. “Fiber helps slow the rise in blood sugar, helps improve cholesterol levels, and keeps you feeling fuller for longer,” says Devje. “When it comes to selecting toppings, load up on fresh vegetables, which are light in calories and rich in vitamins and minerals.”
