What should people with diabetes avoid eating?

For diabetic patients, their diet is not particularly different from that of the general population. People with diabetes can eat normally but must do so in appropriate amounts and be cautious in selecting high-quality foods while controlling portion sizes. The intake should be suitable for the individual to avoid excessive sugar entering the body.

Foods suitable for diabetic patients are generally the same as those for healthy individuals. Normal foods can be consumed, but careful consideration of the type and amount of carbohydrates and fats is essential. Blood sugar and fat levels must be monitored, body weight should remain within a healthy range, and meals should be consumed in roughly equal portions. It is not necessary to skip any meal but to manage portion sizes appropriately.

If you want to lose weight, you can reduce food portions but should not skip meals, as this may cause rapid hunger and overeating in the next meal, leading to fluctuating blood sugar levels. For weight loss, it is advisable to consult your doctor, as medication adjustments may also be necessary.

Foods that diabetic patients should avoid

1. High sugar and sweet foods

Avoid consuming sweet foods, desserts, and beverages high in sugar, such as sugary sodas, sweet fruit juices, and other high-sugar drinks, for example:

• • Bubble tea:

    • Bubble tea is highly unsuitable for diabetic patients and should be avoided because a single serving contains very high sugar levels, which are unnecessary and can rapidly increase blood sugar.

    • Since bubble tea contains large amounts of sugar, diabetic patients consuming it may experience dangerously high blood sugar levels. If consumed, it should be in limited amounts.

• • Alcoholic beverages:

    • If at risk of diabetes or already diagnosed, it is better to avoid alcoholic drinks altogether. Some mixers, like soda, contain sugar, which can rapidly raise blood sugar levels. Those who cannot abstain must consume in limited quantities.

    • Alcohol can be life-threatening or cause complications. Recommendations may vary by gender. Avoiding alcohol whenever possible is highly beneficial for health.

• • Energy drinks:

    • Energy drinks contain sugar and caffeine to boost energy. This can increase alertness and stamina.

    • For diabetic patients, energy drinks should be avoided. If energy is needed, consider alternatives like fruits or water, which help maintain blood sugar control.

2. High-fat foods

Avoid foods high in trans fats and saturated fats, commonly found in heavily processed, fried, or unhealthy fat foods, such as:

• • French fries:

    • Highly processed and refined, French fries are unsuitable for diabetic patients. They lack fiber and essential nutrients, potentially leading to complications. Focus on fiber-rich foods like vegetables, fruits, and whole grains to help control blood sugar.

• • Palm oil or coconut oil:

    • These oils are plant-based with high saturated fat. Excessive intake may clog arteries and increase risks of heart and stroke complications, so consumption should be limited.

3. High-sodium foods

Reduce intake of high-sodium foods, such as salty foods, beverages, and pickled foods. Excess salt or sugar in these foods can increase blood sugar and lead to additional health risks.

• • Pickled foods:

    • Pickled foods contain excessive sugar or salt for preservation, which is harmful for diabetic patients. They may also contain preservatives, leading to potential complications when consumed in large amounts.

4. Rice and starches

Starchy foods high in sugar can rapidly raise blood sugar and pose risks for diabetic patients.

• • White rice and bread:

    • Refined grains lose fiber and vitamins, and the lack of natural sugar absorption inhibitors causes rapid blood sugar spikes.

    • Starchy foods also provide essential protein, minerals, and vitamins. Diabetic patients should not eliminate them completely but consume in balanced amounts to avoid hypoglycemia.

5. Meat

Meat, especially processed, is a protein source but loses nutritional value during processing. Chemicals used for preservation may increase health risks. Portion control is essential; protein should be consumed in appropriate amounts without complete avoidance.

Fiber-rich foods should be added to strengthen the body, consumed in balanced portions along with vitamins and minerals. Recommended foods include:

• • Vegetables:

    • Diabetic patients are advised to eat raw or boiled vegetables, which are low in carbohydrates and contain complex carbs, vitamins, minerals, and fiber that slow blood sugar spikes.

    • Vegetables can be eaten with other foods at every meal, but not blended into juice, as this reduces fiber and vitamins, lowering nutritional benefits.

• • Fresh fruits:

    • All fruits contain carbohydrates that can raise blood sugar, but they also provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Diabetic patients do not need to avoid fruits but should limit portions.

    • This helps control weight and blood sugar. Like vegetables, fruit juices are not recommended because blending removes fiber and vitamins, and added sugars may increase sweetness, which is unsuitable for diabetics.

In daily life, foods like starches, rice, fruits, meat, milk, and eggs may contain sugars that raise blood sugar at varying levels. Foods high in carbohydrates increase blood sugar more than proteins or fats. To maintain healthy blood sugar, consume appropriate portions and balance the diet to manage weight and avoid large blood sugar fluctuations.

Diabetes Health Check?

Regular health checks and following medical advice are essential to monitor and adjust treatment according to patient needs for effective diabetes management. Controlling food intake is also crucial for maintaining safe blood sugar levels.

It is important not to self-medicate or take herbal remedies without consulting your doctor. Always seek advice from your healthcare provider for safe and appropriate guidance.

This article is intended for educational purposes, helping readers understand which foods diabetic patients can eat or should avoid, guiding those who want to take care of themselves or manage their condition.

The article serves as a general guideline for readers. For specialized advice, consult a healthcare professional to receive proper consultation and treatment. We hope this article provides useful knowledge to readers.