Diabetes is a chronic condition in which the pancreas limits or stops its production of insulin. Treatments may include exercise and diet, insulin therapy, and medication. A diabetic diet is not very different from the typical diet doctors encourage for non-diabetics, because it is low in fat and sugar, and high in protein and fiber. However, there are certain foods that diabetes patients should eliminate to properly manage their disease.
Starchy Foods
Diabetic patients should avoid starchy foods because they increase blood sugar levels. Examples of foods with high starch content include potatoes, white rice, white breads, pasta and flour, according to the National Diabetes Association. The healthier alternative is to consume whole-grain foods such as cereals, pasta and whole-grain breads. Eating whole grains helps your body to maintain a healthy blood sugar level, without the drop and rise in sugar experienced with starchy foods.
Alcohol
Diabetic patients should avoid drinking alcoholic beverages. Alcohol can cause hypoglycemia for up to 12 hours after drinking, reports the National Diabetes Association. Hypoglycemia, also known as low blood sugar or low blood glucose, occurs when your blood glucose falls below normal levels. The condition can also cause adverse reactions when combined with other commonly prescribed diabetic medications.
Sweets
Diabetic patients should avoid foods such as cakes, candies, cookies and other sweets. According to the National Diabetes Association, diabetics can consume sweets on special occasions and still maintain their diet by reducing the amount of other carbohydrate foods at the same meal. You can use sugar-limiting sweeteners in beverages and food recipes.
Sweetened Beverages and Juices
Diabetics should avoid the use of artificially sweetened beverages and juices. Fruit juices, coffee drinks, soda and other beverages with added sugar can contribute to the development of diabetes complications, reports the National Diabetes Association. Instead, eating whole fruits and increasing water intake may be helpful in managing your blood sugar levels.
