When the body’s insulin production becomes ineffective, the blood sugar levels rise and fall suddenly, which is exactly what happens to diabetics. And while medications may help improve insulin resistance, doctors emphasize avoiding certain foods to prevent spiking one’s blood sugar. Diabetics are advised to monitor what they eat and understand how their food choices affect their bodies.

Managing diabetes involves a variety of treatments tailored to individual needs. Medications like Jardiance, Ozempic, and Trulicity have gained prominence for their effectiveness in controlling blood sugar levels. Empagliflozin and metformin combination is another strategy to enhance treatment outcomes. Additionally, insulin injections remain a crucial option for many, providing precise control over glucose levels. Fortunately, for those concerned about the cost of diabetic medications, various programs and pharmacies offer discounts on diabetic meds. Exploring these options can help individuals access the necessary treatments without compromising their financial well-being, ensuring that diabetes management remains both effective and affordable.

Read on to know the foods to be limited for diabetes and also find healthier alternatives.

1. Foods Loaded With Trans Fats
Foods that have a lot of trans fats in them can impact the cholesterol levels of the body. And since diabetics have a higher risk of heart diseases than others, it is important to cut down on bad cholesterol whenever possible. Frozen pizzas, doughnuts, and french fries are foods to avoid for those who have diabetes, however, it is also true that these quick bites are difficult to resist. One way to stop craving them is to gradually substitute them for healthier snacks. For instance, homemade oatmeal crispies are a good alternative to junk foods.

2. Full-fat Dairy
Full-fat milk and yogurt contain highly saturated fat that can trigger blood sugar spikes. This is especially true for products that come prepackaged with a high amount of preservatives like froyos or chocolate shakes. Even ice cream is to be avoided by diabetics because these milk products not only have unhealthy fats but are also made by using a lot of sugar. Instead of these items, try fat-free or low-fat alternatives. Many brands have come out with diabetes-friendly dairy products like unsweetened almond milk or soy milk.

3. Artificially Sweetened Beverages
A study has shown that there’s a lot more sugar in commercial sodas in the US than in any other country. There can be as much as six teaspoons of sugar in a can of a fizzy drink, which is definitely something to avoid for diabetics. Other sweetened drinks like tonic water also contain around 45 grams of sugar, which can drastically spike the glucose in the body. Ideal alternatives to such drinks are vegetable juices like tomato or V8 juices that are filled with useful vitamins and minerals.

4. White Bread, Pasta, and Pastry
Any food made of white flour is bad for diabetes because it usually has a high glycemic index. This index measures how carbohydrates increase glucose in the blood. In simpler words, since white rice has a high glycemic index, it can raise the blood sugar in the body, which is why diabetics are often advised against eating it. The same is true for white bread and pastries. An alternative option is to have something made of whole wheat. The high-fiber content will promote better absorption of sugar in the body and thereby prevent glucose spikes.