Foods Diabetics Need to Avoid

by Doug Desjardins

Overview

The golden rule for diabetics is to avoid foods that are high in sugar and fat, which can elevate blood glusose levels when they are processed during digestion. Diabetics also need to avoid foods high in sodium, to prevent high blood pressure and kidney disease, two ailments that often develop as a result of diabetes.
Avoid Fast Food

Diabetics don't have to eliminate any one food from their diet, but there are many they need to keep to a minimum. Fast foods and fried foods high in saturated fat like hamburgers, french fries and onion rings should be avoided altogether along with other fast-food staples (milk shakes and soft drinks) that are loaded with sugar and fat. Even seemingly healthy meals like baked potatoes should be avoided, because they're loaded with carbohydrates that are rapidly broken down into sugar.

Avoid Most Dairy Products

If you like dairy products, always opt for the low-fat versions, and avoid concentrated dairy products like cheese and cottage cheese completely. It goes without saying that ice cream and most deserts, including cake and pudding, should be avoided, since they contain too much fat and sugar. Substitute fruits for sugar-laden desserts, but avoid bananas, mangoes and dates, because they contain a type of carbohydrate that's rapidly broken down into blood sugar.
Eliminate Packaged and Frozen Foods

In addition to avoiding foods high in fats, sugar and carbohydrates, you need to cut sodium out of your diet. It is a leading cause of high blood pressure. This means avoiding frozen foods, since they are loaded with sodium that is used as a preservative. Most packaged foods, even those that seem healthy, fall into the same category because they use salt as a cheap and effective preservative. Always read the list of ingredients before buying any packaged food. Chances are you'll be shocked at the sodium levels.

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