Diabetes is a group of metabolic diseases in which there are high blood sugar levels over a prolonged period. Symptoms of high blood sugar include frequent urination, increased thirst, and increased hunger.
If left untreated, diabetes can cause many serious long-term complications which include heart disease, stroke, chronic kidney failure, foot ulcers, and damage to the eyes. Control of blood pressure and maintaining proper foot care are important for people with the disease.
The most important factor that affects both type 1 and types 2 diabetes is diet, and a well-planned diet can work effectively in maintaining blood glucose at healthy levels. Here we have a list of the top 10 worst foods that every diabetic should avoid.
- White rice.
White rice can affect your blood sugar levels. According to a new study published by Harvard researchers, those who ate the highest amounts of white rice had a 27% higher risk of diabetes than those who ate the least.
- Potatoes.
Potatoes are not a good food choice for diabetics due to a relatively low nutrient density and high levels of quickly absorbed carbohydrates. It has a high glycemic index value, which means that the carbohydrate in them is quickly converted to glucose when digested, and can cause blood sugar and insulin levels to rise. It is also associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
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- Cakes and Pastries.
Cakes and pastries are not good for diabetics as they are loaded with sugar, sodium, junky white flour, and preservatives. Their dangerous combo of sugar and refined flour spikes blood sugar and promotes inflammation, which interferes with insulin’s ability to function properly.
- Soft Drinks and Energy Drinks.
Soft drinks and energy drinks are the worst type of drinks for diabetics, they are loaded with calories that lead to weight gain and people who are overweight are at a higher risk of developing diabetes compared to those with a healthy weight.
- French Fries.
French fries are starchy vegetables that have the worst impact on your blood sugar levels. These fries soak a lot of oil and lead to excess weight gain. A small, 85-gram serving of fast-food French fries contains 33 grams of carbohydrates, including 3 grams of fiber.
- Raisins.
Raisins contain a concentrated level of sugars, which will be quickly absorbed by the body and lead to a sudden spike in blood glucose level that is extremely harmful to people suffering from diabetes.
- White Bread.
White bread is made with white flour that contains refined starch, which is one of the most dangerous foods for diabetics. These refined carbohydrates have a high glycemic index that causes a rapid rise in blood sugar levels, which is extremely harmful to diabetic patients.
- Palm oil.
Palm oil contains a high amount of saturated fat that raises blood cholesterol levels. High blood cholesterol is a risk factor for heart disease. People with diabetes are at high risk of heart disease and limiting your saturated fat can help lower your risk of having a heart attack or stroke.
- Coffee Drinks.
Coffee contains caffeine has been shown in the short term to increase both glucose and insulin levels. Because of this, people with diabetes should be cautious when consuming coffee.
- Fruit Juices.
People with diabetes need to moderate their fruit juice intake as larger glasses of juice can substantially raise blood sugar levels. Regular consumption of fruit juice has been linked with an increase in type 2 diabetes risk. Fruits with a low glycaemic index (GI value of 55 or less) are a safe choice for diabetics as they help to regulate blood sugar levels better.
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