Navigating Middle Eastern Sweets While Maintaining Glycemic Control

Middle Eastern sweets, from baklava to kunafa, are celebrated for their rich flavors and cultural significance. However, their high sugar and refined carbohydrate content can pose challenges for those managing blood sugar levels. Here’s how to enjoy these delicacies without compromising glycemic control:

1. Opt for Nut-Based Desserts: Traditionally nut-heavy treats like maamoul (date-filled cookies) or halva (sweet sesame paste) have lower glycemic impacts due to their protein and healthy fat content. Pair small portions with unsweetened herbal tea to slow sugar absorption.
2. Request Modifications: Many Middle Eastern desserts rely on syrup or honey. Use the mm food app to translate menu descriptions and request lighter syrup or sugar-free alternatives when ordering. Apps like ours can also identify dishes that use natural sweeteners like dates or figs.
3. Balance with Fiber and Protein: Offset high-carb desserts by combining them with fiber-rich foods like fresh figs or pomegranates, or protein sources such as Greek yogurt. The app’s dietary restriction filters can help locate menu items that support balanced meals.
4. Portion Awareness: Share decadent treats like baklava to reduce portion sizes. Use the app’s ingredient analysis feature to identify desserts made with phyllo dough (thinner layers mean less carbs per bite) or whole grains.
5. DIY Alternatives: Explore traditional recipes using almond flour, coconut sugar, or stevia. The mm food app’s translation tool helps you decode authentic recipes for smarter substitutions.

With the mm food app, users can instantly translate menus and apply custom dietary filters to identify desserts aligned with their glycemic goals—ensuring a safer, sweeter dining experience.