5 Worst Food Choices for Diabetics
Diabetes is considered to be among the most common diseases in the world. It is a chronic disease that could lead to serious medical concerns such as kidney disease, heart disease, blindness, and many other health complications. Many people tend to worsen their diabetes by not following a proper diet, or by not drinking enough still or sparkling water throughout the day. Water is essential to prevent dehydration, a major risk factor for patients with high blood glucose who consume fat, starch and sugar rich diets. There are a few food items that elevate the disease and should be avoided.
Take a look at a list of the worst food choices for diabetes:
1. Trans Fats
Trans fats, especially artificial ones, are considered to be quite unhealthy. These fats are formed by unsaturated fatty acids getting hydrogen added for more stability. They are commonly found in spreads, peanut butter, frozen dinner, and creamers.
2. Sugary Beverages
For any diabetic, sugary beverages are the worst drinks that they can have. This is because they are extremely high in carbs. For instance, one 12-ounce can of cola has about 38.5 grams of carbs. Lemonade and sweetened iced tea both have about 45 grams of carbs each. These drinks also have a lot of fructosethat is linked to diabetes and insulin resistance.
3. Rice, Pasta, and White Bread
If you have diabetes, avoid eating rice, pasta, and white bread since they are processed foods and are high in carbs. In fact, gluten-free pastas have been proven to raise blood sugar levels. According to various studies, high carbs not only increase blood sugar levels but also have a negative impact on brain function. And this especially holds true for people suffering from mental deficits and Type 2 diabetes.
4. Flavored Coffee
This might be confusing for some since coffee is often known to have numerous health benefits. Sure, coffee does have a link to lowering the risk of diabetes, but there is a very clear difference between normal and flavored coffee. Flavored coffee is full of carbs, so if you order a Caramel Frappuccino, you would be consuming a total of 57 grams of carbs, which is really bad for someone having diabetes. To keep your blood sugar under normal levels, always choose plain coffee instead of a flavored one.
5. Maple Syrup, Agave Nectar, and Honey
As people age, they start to limit their sugar intake and keep an eye on their diets. However, while they are very particular about keeping a limit on cookies, cakes, and ice-creams, they often miss out controlling on other items. Maple syrup, agave nectar, and honey also cause blood sugar spikes; so, it is advisable to avoid consuming them.
So, this a list of the worst food choices for diabetes that people suffering from this disease should strictly avoid.