Diabetes: 5 Foods that Harm Your Health

Diabetes is a health condition that can be greatly affected by your diet. Whether you’re at risk for developing type-2 diabetes or have been dealing with type-1 diabetes for years, it’s important to monitor your food intake carefully so that you don’t cause a spike in blood sugar (glucose) levels. Keep reading to find out which five foods you need to be wary of.

When it comes to diabetes, make sure you watch out for these five foods:

Sugary Treats. Spikes in glucose levels in diabetics are dangerous, and can be bought about by eating an excessive amount of dietary sugar.  As long as you are in an ideal, healthy weight range and you are eating a balanced diet, a sugary treat once or twice a week isn’t likely to be harmful. But, you should be mindful of snacking absent-mindedly or of eating large portions of treats.

Alcohol. Alcohol contains a small amount of sugar—not enough to be considered excessively harmful when consumed in moderation, but plenty if you drink too much, especially on an empty stomach.  General guidelines for alcohol consumption call for no more than two drinks a day for men and one drink a day for women.

Fried Foods. A reduction in the amount of fat that you eat will help you lose weight, which will in turn lower your insulin resistance and make it possible for you to stop taking medications to control your diabetes.  Fried foods—French fries, onion rings, chicken, etc.,—are made with a high amount of saturated fat and are best left out of a diabetic’s diet. Revise your cooking techniques to bake, broil, or stir-fry your foods instead.

Whole Dairy Products. Whole milks, cheeses, sour cream, yogurts, and other dairy products made with whole milk are high in fat. Switch to low fat or reduced-fat versions of your favorite dairy items.

Salty Snacks. High blood pressure is often linked to diabetes, and excessive sodium intake has been linked to high blood pressure. Reduce the amount of salt in your diet by cutting down gradually on salt used in cooking and at the table (try replacing it with salt substitutes and herbal blends). Also, avoid high-sodium foods such as chips, snack crackers, processed meats, and canned soups.

By keeping tabs on your dietary choices you can be ahead of the game when it comes to managing your diabetes. And not only that . . . you’re overall health will benefit as well.