Kodiak Strawberry Cakes Oatmeal for Diabetes Management
Oatmeal is well-known as a healthy breakfast choice, especially for people with type 2 diabetes working to control blood sugar levels. The whole grains provide steady, slow-releasing carbohydrates along with fiber, protein, and nutrients like magnesium and chromium. But plain oats can get boring fast. That's where Kodiak Cakes Strawberry oatmeal comes in!
Benefits of Kodiak Cakes Strawberry Oatmeal
Kodiak Cakes offers a delicious pre-made instant strawberry oatmeal made with 100% whole grains, real milk, and wildflower honey. It comes in convenient microwaveable cups to prepare in minutes. But what makes it perfect for a diabetes-friendly breakfast?
- Whole grains provide steady, slow-digesting carbs to prevent blood sugar spikes
- Protein and fiber also blunt glucose absorption and prolong feelings of fullness
- Low calorie and fat compared to other sugary instant flavored oatmeals
- Real sweetness from honey and strawberries - no artificial sweeteners
- No added sugars beyond natural milk and fruit sugars
- Packed with extra nutrients like magnesium, chromium, vitamin D
Nutritional Profile of Kodiak Strawberry Oatmeal
Let's look closer at what one serving (1 pouch prepared with water) of Kodiak Strawberry oatmeal gives you nutrition-wise:
- Calories - 160
- Total fat - 2.5g
- Saturated fat - 1g
- Cholesterol - 5mg
- Sodium - 180mg
- Total carbs - 29g
- Dietary fiber - 4g
- Total sugars - 8g
- Added sugars - 0g
- Protein - 6g
- Calcium - 10% DV
- Iron - 10% DV
- Potassium - 6% DV
- Vitamin A - 0% DV
- Vitamin C - 0% DV
- Magnesium - 15% DV
- Phosphorus - 15% DV
- Selenium - 20% DV
- Chromium - 15% DV
- Choline - 2% DV
- Vitamin D - 10% DV
As you can see, Kodiak Strawberry oatmeal supplies balanced nutrition in a 160 calorie serving. The 29g total carbs provide a steady glucose source, while 4g of fiber helps slow absorption. There are no added sugars, just 8g of natural milk and fruit sugars. You also get a hefty 15-20% DV of magnesium, chromium, phosphorus, selenium and vitamin D.
Glycemic Index Testing of Kodiak Oatmeal
In addition to the standard nutrition facts panel, Kodiak oatmeal products have undergone third-party testing to determine their Glycemic Index. This measure looks specifically at how quickly blood sugar rises in response to consuming certain foods.
Kodiak's Glycemic Index testing found their instant steel cut oatmeal mixes resulted in slower, steadier glucose absorption compared to regular instant oatmeal. Over a 2 hour period, Kodiak oatmeal created less than half the blood sugar spike!
While they have not published specific Glycemic Index numbers for the strawberry variety, it contains all the same whole grain and nutrient contents. So people with diabetes can expect similarly favorable effects on blood glucose management.
Tips for Preparing Perfect Diabetes-Friendly Oatmeal
Preparing a hot bowl of oatmeal seems simple - just add hot water and microwave, right? But a few small tweaks can transform your morning bowl into a supercharged breakfast for balanced blood sugar:
Try Overnight Oats
Instead of cooking oats in the morning, soak them overnight. This activates enzymes and may boost digestion. Simply mix 1 packet with milk/yogurt and fruit in a jar. Refrigerate and enjoy chilled in the morning!
Top with Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds add crunch plus healthy fats and protein to balance blood sugar response. Try slivered almonds, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, or chopped walnuts.
Add Cinnamon and Turmeric
Sprinkle on these warming spices! Animal studies show cinnamon improves insulin sensitivity and turmeric reduces inflammation linked to diabetes.
Mix in Flaxseed or Psyllium Husks
Increase fiber and texture by blending a spoonful into cooked oats. The additional viscosity and soluble fiber further slows glucose absorption.
Top with Greek Yogurt
Non-fat Greek yogurt adds extra protein without carbs or fat. Its tart tang also balances the sweetness.
The Bottom Line - Kodiak for Diabetes
Kodiak's instant Strawberry Cakes oatmeal supplies an ideal balanced breakfast full of blood sugar friendly whole grains. With no added sugars, low calorie/fat, and third-party Glycemic Index testing, people with type 2 diabetes can enjoy these yummy microwaveable oatmeal cups as part of a healthy diet.
FAQs
Is Kodiak oatmeal good for diabetics?
Yes, Kodiak oatmeal is an excellent choice for diabetics. Its whole grains provide slow-digesting carbs to prevent blood sugar spikes. Third-party testing also shows Kodiak oatmeal creates smaller glucose responses compared to regular oats.
Are the sugars in Kodiak's strawberry oatmeal OK for diabetes?
Yes, the 8g total sugars come only from natural milk and strawberry sources. There are no harmful added sugars. The whole grains and fiber also help regulate absorption of the natural fruit sugars.
How does Kodiak oatmeal help control blood sugar?
The whole grains, fiber, protein and nutrients in Kodiak oatmeal work together to slow digestion of carbs. This prevents rapid glucose spikes. Magnesium and chromium also aid insulin function to get that glucose into cells.
Should I choose steel cut or rolled oats for diabetes?
Kodiak's steel cut oats may result in slightly slower glucose absorption. But their old fashioned rolled oats provide very similar blood sugar benefits. Choose whichever texture you prefer!
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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