5 foods that people
with diabetes
need to avoid
Your diet forms an important aspect in controlling diabetes – so what you eat and what you don’t, matters. There are several foods and drinks which can raise blood sugar levels shortly after eating or drinking them. Avoiding these foods altogether can have an impact your blood sugar levels by not causing harmful blood sugar spikes.
Here’s a checklist of 5 foods that people with diabetes would do well to avoid:
SUGAR SWEETENED FRUIT JUICES
Juices contain all the carbs but none of the fiber found in whole fruits. They are high in sugar. This absorbed very quickly can cause blood sugar levels to spike and increase your risk of weight gain.1,2
FATTY MEATS
FATTY MEATS
All of these foods contain a good deal of saturated fat which can increase your risk of heart disease. Daily serving of red meat no larger than a deck of cards increased the risk of adult onset diabetes by 19 percent. 3
FULL-FAT DAIRY:
This category includes whole milk, creams, full-fat yogurts and cheese, all of which are high in saturated fats that can increase your blood cholesterol levels. Opt for fat-free versions if you just can’t do without them.4
PROCESSED FOODS:
PROCESSED FOODS:
Chips, burgers, pastries, cookies, etc. are full of unhealthy trans fats and should be avoided. These foods tend to increase blood cholesterol, with low nutrient value.
Select whole foods - fruits, veggies, nuts and low-fat yogurts –instead. 4
White flour, white rice, sugar, and carbonated drinks:
These are the worst choices.5 Avoid sugary drinks like regular soda, energy drinks, sweet tea, and other sugary drinks. These will raise blood glucose and have several hundred calories in just one serving. 5
Cutting out the above foods from your diet may seem difficult at first but don’t give up. Look for healthier alternatives (there are plenty out there), adjust your habits and you may well be surprised at the results.
