Foods to Avoid With Diabetes

21 Foods To Avoid With Diabetes

One of the most common questions people with diabetes have is “what can I eat/drink?”

Eating healthy and avoiding the foods below is one of the most important things you can do to help keep your diabetes under control. It can even help those with Pre-Diabetes reverse the condition. This is, of course, when combined with exercise and, in some cases, medicine.

21 Foods to Avoid With Diabetes

  1. White rice / flour (ie. white bread, white flour tortillas)
  2. Sugary drinks
  3. Sugary foods (chocolate/cake/candy)
  4. Fruit flavored yogurt
  5. Sugary breakfast cereal
  6. Honey, maple syrup and other natural sweeteners
  7. Dried fruit
  8. French fries
  9. Deep fried foods (fish, chicken, tofu, etc.)
  10. Fruit juices
  11. Processed meats (ie. bacon, hot dogs, ham, salami, beef jerky)
  12. Packaged snacks/baked goods
  13. Meats that are high in fat (ie. beef/pork ribs, prime rib)
  14. Canned vegetables with added sodium
  15. Canned fruits with sugary syrup
  16. Whole milk
  17. Cottage cheese
  18. Full fat cheeses
  19. Margarine
  20. Pickles/sauerkraut
  21. Alcohol

General Diet Guidelines For Diabetics

The above list gives specific foods to avoid. But it is not a complete list. Here we’ll cover some general diet guidelines for those with diabetes.

When you have diabetes, one of the key things to focus on in managing your blood sugar and insulin levels. And diet is a big part of that. In fact, when it comes to diabetes, the most important “medicine” you take may very well be the foods you eat/avoid.

Avoiding foods that increase your blood sugar levels is important. Particularly foods that have refined and liquid sugars.

But it’s not just about sugars. Another important thing with diet is to keep carbohydrates in check. Carbs can have a big impact on your blood sugar levels. Limiting, if not avoiding foods, with high levels of carbs is highly recommended.

You’ll also want to avoid unhealthy fats. Particularly trans fat. Highly processed foods are also ones to avoid.

Consult Your Doctor or a Dietitian

The above list and guidelines are just that. Guidelines. Everyone is different so people with diabetes should work closely with a doctor and/or dietitian. These health professionals can work with you to come up with a custom diet plan for your situation.