Almost five million people in the UK have been diagnosed with diabetes, while a further 13.6 million are considered to be ‘at risk’ for developing type 2 diabetes. If you have diabetes, or might be at risk, it can help to make some changes to your diet. You can start by avoiding these five foods that cause high blood sugar symptoms.
Diabetes is a condition where the body is unable to regulate blood sugar. There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2.
Those with type 1 diabetes will need to inject insulin to manage their diabetes, and their condition is not a result of their lifestyle. Type 2 diabetes can be caused by lifestyle choices and can be managed by adopting healthier ones.
Type 2 diabetes is far more common than type 1 in the UK, with around 90 percent of diabetics having type 2.
But what are the worst foods for diabetes patients to eat?
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Fruit-flavoured yoghurts
These fruity yoghurts can often be packed full of sugar.
Make sure you check the label carefully to see how much sugar is in your choice of yoghurt.
For a diabetes-friendly swap, try eating plain yoghurt instead.
Sugary breakfast cereals
Cereals with a high sugar content are not the best way to start the day if you have diabetes.
Some cereals contain a high sugar and carbohydrate content, as well as providing you with very little protein.
Swap sugary cereals for a protein-based low-carb breakfast, like an omelette, to keep you fuller for longer.
Dried fruit
There are loads of health benefits that come from eating fruit, but unfortunately for diabetics when fruit is dried, its sugar content becomes more concentrated.
Raisins, for example, can contain four times more carbohydrates than grapes.
Diabetics don’t have to give up on fruit altogether though. Sticking to lower-sugar fruits like fresh berries or a small apple is a much better alternative.
Chips
They’re delicious, but unfortunately not a good choice for diabetics.
Potatoes are pretty high in carbohydrates already, but deep frying them in vegetable oil makes them even more unhealthy.
All the oil can also cause inflammation and other health problems.
Why not instead opt for a small portion of sweet potato?