Type 2 Diabetes Diet: Foods to Limit

Evaluating McDonald's Biscuits and Gravy for Diabetic Diets

Fast food breakfast staples like biscuits drowned in creamy sauced may seem like indulgent treats, but how do menu items like McDonald's biscuits and gravy actually impact blood sugar and fit into a type 2 diabetes nutrition plan? By analyzing the carbohydrate counts, ingredients, and overall nutritional profile, we can determine if biscuits and gravy work in moderation for diabetics or if they should be limited.

Nutrition Facts Breakdown

The McDonald's sausage biscuit with gravy tallies up:

500 calories
26g fat (12g saturated)
1200mg sodium
53g carbs (2g fiber, 2g sugar)
18g protein

With over 50g net carbohydrates placing the meal in the high glycemic category, the biscuit and gravy delivers a hefty dose of carbohydrates and saturated fat derived largely from refined grains and dairy sources.

Detrimental Ingredients for Diets

Upon examining the long list of ingredients, several concerning components stand out:

Enriched bleached wheat flour - Processed grains spike blood sugar rapidly.
Hydrogenated soybean oil - Trans fats increase inflammation and heart disease risks.
Sodium phosphates - Common additive linked to kidney damage and osteoporosis.
Monosodium glutamate (MSG) - Excitotoxin associate with neurological impairment, headaches and fatigue.

Beyond the refined carbohydrates, dairy and sodium, unnecessary artificial enhancers further undermine wellness.

Beneficial Elements

Amid the nutrition flaws, some beneficial points offer redemption:

Fair protein content from egg and sausage
Calcium and vitamin D from cheese
Minimal sugars keep glycemic impact lower than other breakfast sandwiches

But the cons seem to outweigh the pros for regular dietary inclusion for most diabetics.

How Biscuits and Gravy Affect Diabetic Health Goals

Given the American Diabetes Association guidelines emphasizing complex carbs, lean protein, fiber and unsaturated fats for blood sugar control, McDonald's biscuits and sausage gravy meal underdelivers.

Blood Sugar and Insulin Resistance Triggers

The refined carbohydrates and saturated fats make for rapid digestion and glucose spikes that strain pancreatic function over years. Ongoing inflammation from soybean oil and dairy also worsen cell insulin resistance.

Limited Micronutrient Benefits

While supplying some protein and calcium, the meal lacks antioxidant vitamins A, C, E along with magnesium and potassium that reduce diabetic complications.

Weight Management Interference

At nearly 25% daily calories in one meal, excess energy intake leads to gradual weight gain or impedes loss goals. And added artificial ingredients disrupt gut health and metabolism.

Alternatives to McDonald's Biscuits and Gravy

Fortunately, other balanced breakfast options exist to satisfy comfort food cravings and diabetes nutrition needs. Healthy easy substitutes include:

Vegetable Hash with Eggs

Spiced sweet potatoes, peppers and onions scrambled with eggs make for fewer carbs than biscuits but still supply protein, vitamins and fiber without excess saturated fat or preservatives.

Avocado Toast Breakfast Sandwich

Swapping refined biscuits for whole grain toasted bread loaded with avocado fiber and healthy fats helps regulate energy and hunger while avoiding fake additives.

Greek Yogurt Power Bowl

Non-fat Greek yogurt combined with berries, chopped nuts and chia seeds offers calcium without the dairy downsides alongside antioxidants, plant protein and less glycemic natural sugars to fuel mornings.

The Final Word on McDonald's Biscuits and Gravy

While an occasional indulgence won't undermine health goals entirely, making McDonald's biscuits and gravy a regular staple works against most type 2 diabetes nutrition recommendations. Prioritizing more whole food alternatives better sustains blood sugar management and wellness in the long run.

Moderating higher glycemic comfort meals while emphasizing nutrient dense proteins, healthy fats and slowly absorbed carbs from plants enables achieving balance where no foods require complete restriction when managing diabetes through diet.

FAQs

Are McDonald's biscuits and gravy keto friendly?

No, with 53g total carbohydrates and only 2g fiber per serving, McDonald's biscuits and gravy exceed the strict carb confines of a ketogenic diet. Sticking to the keto diet requires limiting net carbs to 20-50g per day.

Can diabetics eat biscuits and gravy?

Occasional small servings of biscuits with gravy may fit into a healthy type 2 diabetic diet in moderation alongside other balanced meals emphasizing vegetables, lean protein and whole grains. But the refined carbs and saturated fat should be limited.

Do McDonald's biscuits have sugar?

McDonald's plain buttermilk biscuits contain 2g of sugar per biscuit. While not high in sugar, the refined wheat flour is rapidly digested and spikes blood sugar. Healthier biscuit alternatives exist for diabetics.

Is sausage gravy good for diabetics?

Typically high in refined flour, butter and whole milk, traditional sausage gravies are very heavy. Lower fat milk, whole grain flour and turkey sausage make a somewhat better gravy option for diabetics focused on heart health and stable blood sugar.

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.