Managing your blood sugar can be challenging during and after cancer treatment and working closely with your care team is the most effective way to keep things in check. In addition to following their recommendations about medications and routines, here are some food-related things you can do to keep your blood sugar stable.

Help prevent blood sugar highs and lows by:

• Choosing small meals/snacks five to six times a day instead of two or three larger meals.

• Timing meals/snacks to be every 2-3 hours during the day.

• Pairing protein with a source of fiber at meals and snacks.

What does that type of eating pattern look like in a typical day?

The chart below is a 2-day example of 6 small meals/snacks each day. The meals/snacks are spaced 2-3 hours apart and include both protein and fiber. This general guide is something your Iris care team can help you personalize to suit your food preferences and needs.

If your blood sugar has been running high try eating more of these foods:

• Dark leafy green vegetables such as spinach, collard greens and kale.

• Berries like blackberries, strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries.

• Lean protein like fish, skinless poultry or 93% lean ground meats.

• Plant-based proteins like beans, lentils, soy foods, nuts, and seeds.

• Unsweetened, low-fat dairy products or dairy alternatives.

• Whole grains like quinoa, farro, brown rice or whole wheat bread.

If your blood sugar dips low quickly consume one of these foods/drinks*:

• ½ cup fruit juice (like orange juice or apple juice)

• 1 TBSP honey or sugar

• Hard candy

Good to know: *You will want to make sure to recheck blood sugar levels 15 minutes after eating/drinking

If your treatment includes steroid medications, you may feel hungry more often. Here are a few additional ideas that can help keep your blood sugar controlled during these times:

• Drink plenty of unsweetened fluids like water and tea.

• Snack on foods that are rich in protein, fiber and/or healthy fats, like:

  • Unsalted nuts such as walnuts, almonds, peanuts, cashews, pumpkin and sunflower seeds.

  • Whole grain crackers like Triscuits, Ak-Max or Wasa crisps with low-fat cheese, cottage cheese, hummus or nut butter.

  • Raw or blanched vegetable with dip like hummus or tzatziki. 

  • String cheese and fresh fruit like grapes or an apple.

  • Brown rice cakes with nut butter of your choice

• Talk with your care team about physical activity at a level that’s right for you.

Navigating cancer and blood sugar concerns at the same time can feel overwhelming. Our Iris nurses, mental health therapists, nutrition and peer mentor teams are here to support you.