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For a diabetic, eating the wrong foods can result in high blood sugar levels. Experts believe that what you eat significantly affects how well your blood sugar levels are managed. There are many foods high in vitamin C, protein, antioxidants, and fibre that are known to manage blood sugar levels. There are, however, some worst foods for diabetes since they can suddenly raise blood sugar levels.
Health Shots got in touch with dietitian Hari Lakshmi, Consultant – Dietitian/Nutritionist, Motherhood Hospitals, Chennai to find which are the worst foods to avoid with high blood sugar levels or diabetes.
Lakshmi says, “You don’t always have to rely on medications for keeping diabetes under control. Your diet also heavily influences your health. Making minor changes to your diet can do wonders in the long run. Let’s look at what food items are to be removed from your plate.”
Here are 5 foods that you need to avoid with high blood sugar levels:
1. Sugar
People with diabetes should avoid sugary foods such as pastries, sweets, cakes, cookies, candy, and chocolate. According to Lakshmi, excessive use of sugar-sweetened foods and beverages can lead to obesity, which raises the risk of high blood sugar. Additionally, raised blood pressure, inflammation, and fatty liver disease are all side effects of added sugar consumption that have been related to an elevated risk for heart attack and stroke. Moreover, sweet foods are a source of carbs, which can raise blood sugar levels.
2. Processed food with trans and saturated fats
For those with diabetes, processed foods are an absolute no-no because they can raise blood sugar levels. Lakshmi says, “Trans fat is used in food items to preserve them for a longer duration, and it increases the risk of diabetes and heart related complications.” Additionally, eating processed foods high in saturated fats might raise your body’s levels of harmful cholesterol.
3. Canned food
To extend the shelf life of canned foods, excess sodium and other preservatives are frequently added. Lakshmi says, “The ‘can’ of canned food items contain a chemical called BPA or bisphenol-A which is used to strengthen the can. This is the main reason why diabetic people experience negative side effects.” This doesn’t just increase the risk of heart related complications but also can alter normal bodily functions in the long run.
4. Sugary cereals
A majority of people choose cereal because they believe it to be a filling and healthy breakfast option. However, that’s not true! Especially if you have diabetes. cereals, which are highly processed and abundant in refined grains, contain sugar. Consuming them in the morning can increase the risk of a range of chronic health concerns, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and liver difficulties. So, at all costs, avoid them. As an alternative, you can eat a soaked oatmeal bowl every morning for breakfast.
5. Fruits
Fruits are a healthy option as a snack and as a balanced meal, it contains important nutrients and fiber. However, “some fruits such as figs, grapes, mangoes, cherries, and bananas, have high sugar content; therefore, if you have high blood sugars, they need to be restricted. But you can still enjoy fruits such as jamun, pear, sweet lime, peaches, apples, and plums. Make sure you consume in moderation.
Takeaway
Maintaining your blood sugar is essential to avoid severe diseases because high blood sugar is also a risk factor of heart diseases and strokes. So, make sure you eat healthy, avoid these foods and check your blood sugar levels regularly for timely treatment.
