Surprising Foods That Spike Blood Sugar

Diabetes is a chronic health condition that has reached epidemic proportions worldwide and affects both adults and children similarly [1]. Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to serious health conditions such as heart disease, kidney disease, blindness, and other complications [2]. However, it can be easily managed by making certain lifestyle alterations. One such method is to maintain a healthy diet because eating certain foods can cause blood sugar levels to spike leading to serious consequences. Here we talk about certain food items that must be avoided by diabetics to control their blood sugar levels. 

Honey

Although honey has its own set of health benefits, it is suggested that a diabetes patient avoids the consumption of honey. It may not be as processed as table sugar, but can have similar impacts on blood sugar levels and insulin. Consumption of honey has also been found to negatively affect the health of prediabetics [2]. 

Dried Fruit

Dried Fruits are packed with essential vitamins and minerals. While being processed, they lose water which leads to an increase in the concentrations of these nutrients. However, with the processing, the concentration of sugar contents increase as well. Research studies have shown that dried fruits contain approximately four times as much carbs and a significant increase in sugar levels as compared to their fresh counterparts. Therefore, sticking to low sugar fresh fruits is a better and healthier alternative for diabetes patients [2]. 

Fruit Juice

Fruit juices are considered to be healthy beverages, but the process of extracting the juice increases the concentration of sugar in the end product. The effects of fruit juices on the blood sugar levels are similar to those of sodas and other canned, sugary drinks. Even unsweetened 100% fruit juice can spike up the blood sugar levels. In some cases, fruit juice has a higher concentration of sugar and carbs than compared to soda [2]. A better alternative would be to drop a wedge of lemon in water and enjoy the refreshing drink and it contains less than 1 gram of carbs and is almost free of calories [3]. 

Yoghurt

Although yoghurt may be a healthy food option for most as it provides probiotics that are good for the gut, they may not be as healthy or beneficial for diabetics. Portion control is extremely important when it comes to yoghurt consumption, for diabetics. It is also essential that they ensure they do not consume any flavoured or topped yoghurt, and also read the labels to know for sure what it exactly contains [2]. There are just too many precautionary measures to be followed when it comes to eating yoghurt or else it may end up spiking their blood sugar levels. Therefore, it is a better and safer option for diabetics to avoid the consumption of yoghurt. 

Certain Dairy Items 

Dairy foods are enriched with calcium, protein, and vitamins, but they are also rich in lactose, a type of sugar. Lactose can significantly spike up the blood sugar levels in a diabetes patient. Another reason to avoid dairy products is that they contain fats and certain other nutrients that may contribute in weight gain. Excessive weight and obesity are considered to be one of the major reasons for diabetes. Therefore, it is best to avoid certain dairy products to prevent and manage diabetes [4]. 

Sweet Potatoes 

Sweet potatoes may be rich in vitamins and some fibre, but just like potatoes, they are also rich in carbs and can have a negative impact on the blood sugar levels of a diabetes patient [5]. 

The Takeaway

Diet plays an important role in managing diabetes, therefore it is extremely crucial that a diabetes patient is vigilant about everything they consume. Something, even the natural food items that are generally considered healthy may have a negative impact on their blood sugar levels and lead to extreme consequences. Therefore, it is important that people suffering from diabetes take their diet seriously and avoid all the consumptions of anything that may cause harm to their health. Expert consultation is recommended before making any dietary changes. 

References Link: 

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4478580/
2. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods-to-avoid-with-diabetes#_noHeaderPrefixedContent
3. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/786556/nutrients
4. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/317718#dairy
5. https://www.healthcentral.com/slideshow/surprising-foods-that-can-spike-blood-sugar