Kosher diet for people with diabetes: what you need to know
A kosher diet is not just a system of food choices but a way of life followed by millions of people worldwide. For those with diabetes, adhering to kosher dietary laws may seem like an additional challenge. However, the right combination of a kosher diet and blood sugar control helps maintain health and prevent complications. This article explores how to organise a balanced diet, which foods to choose, and what to consider when preparing meals.
Key principles of a kosher diet
A kosher diet is based on Jewish kashrut laws, which define which foods are permitted and how they should be prepared. The key principles include:
- Permitted types of meat – Only ruminant animals with split hooves (such as cows, sheep, and goats) and certain types of poultry are allowed. Pork, rabbit, and most seafood are forbidden.
- Separation of meat and dairy – These foods must not be mixed in the same meal, and a waiting period is required between consuming meat and dairy.
- Permitted fish – Only those with scales and fins, such as salmon, tuna, and cod, are allowed.
- Prohibition of blood – Meat must undergo special processing to remove blood.
- Use of kosher-certified products – This is particularly important for processed foods, which may contain non-kosher ingredients.
How to combine a kosher diet with blood sugar control
For people with diabetes, maintaining a balance of nutrients and stable blood sugar levels is crucial. Here are some key dietary principles:
✔ Carbohydrate control – choosing foods with a low glycaemic index (GI) to prevent blood sugar spikes.
✔ Adequate protein intake – protein helps stabilise blood sugar levels and provides sustained energy.
✔ Healthy fats – replacing trans and saturated fats with beneficial sources like olive oil, nuts, and avocado.
✔ Consistent meal timing – eating at regular intervals to avoid hypoglycaemia and sudden glucose fluctuations.
Permitted and restricted foods
Recommended foods:
✅ Vegetables: Spinach, cabbage, broccoli, courgettes, aubergines.
✅ Low-GI fruits: Apples, pears, berries, citrus fruits.
✅ Whole grains: Quinoa, buckwheat, bulgur, oats.
✅ Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, beans.
✅ Lean meats: Chicken, turkey, beef.
✅ Fish: Salmon, mackerel, tuna.
✅ Plant-based oils: Olive, flaxseed, coconut.
Foods to limit or avoid
❌ White bread and refined flour products.
❌ Potatoes, white rice.
❌ High-sugar fruits (bananas, grapes, mangoes).
❌ Sugary drinks, fizzy sodas.
❌ Fast food and fried foods.
How to choose carbohydrates for diabetes
Carbohydrates are the primary source of energy, but their quality and quantity are crucial for diabetes management.
🔹 Prioritise complex carbohydrates – whole grains, legumes, and vegetables.
🔹 Limit fast-digesting carbs – white bread, sweets, and potatoes.
🔹 Pair carbs with protein and healthy fats – this helps slow glucose absorption.
Balancing proteins and fats in the diet
✔ Proteins should make up 15-20% of total calorie intake and come from lean meats, fish, eggs, and legumes.
✔ Fats should primarily be unsaturated, sourced from olive oil, nuts, and fish.
Cooking methods and glycaemic index control
For diabetes management, proper cooking methods are essential:
🥗 Opt for baking, steaming, or stewing instead of frying.
🥗 Use spices that may help lower blood sugar levels, such as turmeric and cinnamon.
🥗 Minimise cooking time for vegetables to retain a low GI.
Can people with diabetes eat sweets
Yes, but in moderation. Acceptable options include:
✅ Dark chocolate (at least 85% cocoa).
✅ Natural sweeteners (stevia, erythritol).
✅ Homemade desserts made with nuts, berries, and whole grain flour.
How many people in ukraine follow a kosher diet
Estimates suggest that around 100,000 Jews live in Ukraine, with a portion adhering to kosher dietary laws. Additionally, some people choose kosher food for its perceived health benefits.
Should you consult a dietitian
Yes! A dietitian can develop an individualised meal plan tailored to your blood sugar levels, carbohydrate needs, and kosher dietary requirements.
At the Clinical Dietetics Centre of Dr Bezuhla, you can receive professional dietary advice for diabetes management. Book a consultation today for a personalised approach to your nutrition!