Diabetes is now considered a chronic condition that afflicts millions worldwide. While the disease is manageable if detected early, the consequences can be devastating if it gets out of control. Diabetes can culminate in a variety of other afflictions such as kidney disease, heart problems, amputation, and blindness. Diabetics have to be careful what they eat, as there are certain foods and beverages to avoid for those with diabetes.
Sugary Beverages
These types of drinks are some of the worst for diabetics and include soda, fruit juice, wine coolers, lemonade, and iced tea. The reason you want to avoid them is that they are rich in carbohydrates which come from their sugar content. They also contain fructose, which is associated with insulin resistance. Finally, those that consume drinks rich in higher fructose will experience metabolic alterations which promote fat around the belly.
Pasta, Rice And White Bread
Foods which are white in color are often unhealthy for those suffering from diabetes. This is because they tend to be processed and high in carbohydrates. This category also includes anything containing flour that is refined, such as bagels, biscuits, or crackers. In addition to raising one’s blood sugar levels, these foods have also been found to cause reduced neural functioning in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Breakfast Cereal
Americans especially love cold breakfast cereal, which comes in many varieties. However, for those that have diabetes, it should be avoided like the plague. While breakfast cereal is fortified with vitamins and displays various health claims in its exterior labeling, the reality is that these products are heavily processed and contain a ton of sugars and carbs. Furthermore, they don’t provide much protein which is important because this nutrient is responsible for producing feelings of satiation and fullness.
French Fries And Potatoes in General
French fries in particular are a food that should be avoided by those that have diabetes, but potato consumption, in general, should be reduced. While potatoes are healthy for most people and capable of being cooked and prepared in many ways, they contain lots of carbs. Even a moderately sized specimen can contain about 35 grams worth of carbohydrates. Peeling and frying them is even worse since eating them will cause blood sugar levels to increase.
Anything Containing Maple Syrup, Honey or Agave nectar
Most diabetics are well aware of the dangers of consuming sugar, and actively avoid it. But because many still have a sweet tooth, they look to alternatives such as maple syrup, agave nectar, and honey. While honey in particular is prized for its longevity and antimicrobial characteristics, it is still not good for diabetics because it can cause spikes in blood sugar. Honey, agave, and maple syrup may contain natural sugar which is unprocessed, but it has the same levels of carbs as standard white sugar, and perhaps more. The ideal alternative is sweeteners which have naturally lowered carbohydrates.
When shopping for food, a general rule of thumb to remember is that carbohydrates will have the strongest effect on one’s blood sugar levels. This is because they break down and become glucose which the bloodstream will then absorb.
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