As a type 2 diabetic, which is better for me: grits or oatmeal?
I have been eating grits instead of oatmeal because it stays with me longer then oatmeal. The main reason I switched from oatmeal is because it has more sugar in it then grits does. I am a type 2 diabetic and I have been trying to lower my blood sugar as best as I can. Although I have heard that oatmeal is better then grits for someone with type 2 diabetes, I am not convinced. The only way to give oatmeal any flavor without adding some sweetener to it seems to be impossible. Now I admit I do like oatmeal. I started an oatmeal for breakfast routine back sometime last year, which was ok, but it did not stay with me very long before I wanted something else in between to get me through to lunch time. I welcome suggestions if you can give me.
Dr. Gourmet Says...
This is a great question. We know that higher fiber foods can be beneficial
in helping control blood sugar. The prototype of that is oatmeal,
and if I had a nickel for every time a physician said to a diabetic, "Eat
oatmeal for breakfast," I would retire today. We don't recommend grits
very often and I think that's because they have been refined.
Note, also, that grits are more calorie dense (all measures
are for precooked grits or oats).
1/4 cup grits = 144 calories & 1.8 grams fiber
1/4 cup oats = 77 calories & 2.0 grams fiber
So the key is grits are OK but be careful with the portion size. Another tip is to consider moving toward yellow grits. The less refined cornmeal will have more fiber and more nutrients. Look for coarse ground or stone ground yellow grits / cornmeal.
1/4 cup cornmeal = 110 calories & 2.2 grams fiber
You'll get better "grit" flavor, fewer calories and more fiber.
Thanks for writing,
Timothy S. Harlan, M.D.
Dr. Gourmet