Diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects both just adults and children. High blood sugar levels due to low insulin production or insulin resistance can cause serious complications like blindness, heart disease, and kidney disease if left untreated. Listed here are some of the worst food choices for diabetes patients. These foods should be avoided to manage the condition effectively.

1. White rice, pasta, and bread
These foods top the list of the worst food choices for people with diabetes as they are loaded with carbohydrates. These processed foods are mostly made from refined white flour and contain very little fiber. Fiber helps slow down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, so consuming low-fiber foods can increase blood sugar levels. So, one should opt for high-fiber foods or those made with whole grains.

2. Frozen dinners, baked goods, and margarine
Foods that contain artificial trans fats are unhealthy, and they are also among the worst food choices for people with diabetes. These trans fats are often added to peanut butter, spreads, creamers, muffins, and crackers to prolong their shelf-life. Although trans fats do not directly elevate blood sugar levels, they have been known to increase inflammation in the body. They also cause insulin resistance and increase belly fat, so one should check the food labels and avoid products with trans or hydrogenated fats. This can go a long way in helping manage this health condition.

3. Sodas and sweetened beverages
Drinks like cola, sweetened iced tea, and lemonade contain high amounts of sugar. Some fruit drinks and juices could also contain a high amount of fructose, which has been linked to insulin resistance and diabetes. This makes them some of the worst food choices for people with diabetes. So, diabetics should opt for club soda, unsweetened iced tea, or water instead.

4. Flavored yogurt
Yogurt is good for gut health and overall well-being, but the flavored varieties are packed with sugar. Diabetics should choose plain, whole-milk yogurt instead of fruit or flavored yogurt. Also, it’s best to avoid frozen yogurt, which is often considered to be healthier than ice cream. In some cases, frozen yogurt can contain as much or even more sugar than ice cream.

5. Honey and maple syrup
Diabetics often turn to honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar to sweeten their food while avoiding sugar intake. That said, these sweeteners can also cause blood sugar levels to spike and should also be avoided. Instead, one can choose natural low-carb sweeteners to satiate their sweet tooth and also manage the condition.

These are some of the worst food choices for people with diabetes, so keep these in mind when planning a diabetes-friendly meal. It can work wonders for maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.