Diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases around the world, affecting both adults and children. And many diabetics suffer from complications of this disease when they are not in control of their blood sugar levels. Which includes heart disease, kidney disease, and various eye problems.
Also, the diet of diabetics is the biggest controller of their sugar levels. So there are some foods and drinks that help raise blood sugar levels. Thus, the risk of developing complications from diabetes increases.
Why is eating carbohydrates important for diabetics?
Carbohydrates, proteins, and fats are the macronutrients that provide the body with the energy it needs. Carbohydrates have the greatest influence on blood sugar levels. It breaks down into sugar or glucose and is absorbed into the bloodstream. Carbohydrates include starches, sugar and fiber, which are considered the best because the body cannot digest them. Thus, it does not raise blood sugar levels.
Therefore, when diabetics consume too many carbohydrates at once, this causes their blood sugar levels to rise dangerously high. And this over time leads to damage to nerves and blood vessels. This increases the risk of heart disease, kidney disease, and many other health conditions.
What foods and drinks should diabetics avoid?
Eating low amounts of carbohydrates can help prevent high blood sugar levels and significantly reduce the risk of diabetes complications. Therefore, it is important to avoid the following foods and drinks for diabetic patients:
1- Sugar-sweetened beverages
Sugary drinks are the worst choice for diabetics. First, because it contains a very high percentage of carbohydrates. A can of Coca-Cola (350 ml) provides about 38.5 grams of carbohydrates.
Sweetened juices and sweetened iced tea also contain approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. In addition, these drinks are full of fructose, which is strongly linked to insulin resistance and diabetes. Where one study indicates that consuming these drinks may increase the risk of developing complications of diabetes, such as liver disease and others.
Therefore, it is best to avoid these sugary drinks and replace them with water or unsweetened drinks.
2- trans fats
Artificial unsaturated fats are unhealthy for everyone, especially for diabetics. These fats are manufactured by hydrogenating unsaturated fatty acids to make them more stable. Trans fats are found in margarine, peanut butter , spreads, bleaches, and more.
Although trans fats do not directly raise blood sugar levels. It is associated with increased inflammation, insulin resistance, and the accumulation of belly fat.
And many reports indicate that an increase in trans fats in the diet may cause an increase in insulin resistance in the body. And thus increase the risk of heart disease and arteries. Therefore, health experts advise to avoid eating this type of fat or any product that contains it. This is to maintain the health of the body.
3- White bread, rice and pasta
Rice, white bread, and pasta are all high-carb processed foods, and eating bread and other foods made with refined flour has been shown to significantly increase blood sugar levels in people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
These foods made from flour contain a small amount of fiber, which helps slow the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream. Therefore, it is better to avoid this type of food and replace it with foods rich in fiber, which help reduce blood sugar levels significantly.
4- Fruit flavored yogurt
Although plain yogurt is a good option for diabetics, fruit flavored yogurt is a bad option for them. And a cup of yogurt with fruit flavors added to it contains a large amount of carbohydrates and sugar, and this causes blood sugar levels to rise dramatically.
And instead of fruit flavored yogurt, diabetics can eat full-fat yogurt that does not contain sugar, which is good for the body and health.
5- Flavored coffee drinks
Coffee is associated with many health benefits for the body, including reducing the risk of diabetes and its complications. Flavored coffee is the opposite, as it is considered a liquid dessert rather than a healthy drink.
Some studies also indicate that flavored coffee drinks contain a lot of calories, which may cause weight gain and high sugar levels for diabetics. To maintain blood sugar levels, avoid flavored coffee drinks and have regular coffee or espresso.
6- dried fruit
Fresh fruits are a great source of important vitamins and minerals, while dried fruits lose water, which leads to the loss of high concentrations of some nutrients such as sugar. For example, one cup of fresh grapes contains 27.3 grams of carbohydrates and 1.4 grams of fiber, while one cup of “dried grapes” contains 114 grams of carbohydrates.
Therefore, dried fruits contain more sugars and carbohydrates, which is why you should avoid them if you have diabetes and replace them with fresh fruits.
7- Fruit juice
Although fruit juice is a great and healthy option, its effect on blood sugar levels is not good. For example, one cup (250 ml) of apple juice contains 24 grams of sugar, and the same amount of grape juice provides about 35 grams of sugar.
Instead of relying on fruit juice, it is better to eat fresh fruits, or you can enjoy a glass of water with the juice of a small lemon.
8- French fries
French fries are one of the most popular foods in the world, although it is better for you to avoid them if you have diabetes. Where fried potatoes in oil cause a rise in blood sugar levels. Thus, the risk of complications from diabetes increases.
It may seem to you that you will avoid all kinds of foods that you like, which can be difficult. But for better health and to avoid annoying complications of diabetes. It is best for you not to eat these foods that cause your blood sugar levels to rise.
