Type 2 diabetes is a condition in which the body's pancreas does not produce enough insulin to metabolize glucose. In its early stages, it can be controlled by diet modification, however, at later stages may require the use of medication or injections of insulin. Left untreated, diabetes can lead to many complications, including blindness, kidney disease and neuropathy. If you have Type 2 diabetes, stay away from certain foods to help maintain good health and nutrition.
Foods High in Sugar
If you have Type 2 diabetes, avoid foods that are high in sugar. Examples include honey, cakes, pies, jelly, jam, ice cream, pastries, canned fruits, soda, chocolates, syrup, doughnuts and cookies. These foods can raise the body's blood glucose levels, causing your body to require more medication. They can even predispose you to developing diabetes-related complications.
Foods High in Saturated and Trans Fats
If you are following a diabetic diet, avoid eating foods that contain a high amount of saturated and trans fats. According to Diabetic Living, sugar, butter, high-fructose corn syrup, shortening, margarine, and partially hydrogenated or hydrogenated oils are the biggest saturated fat and trans fat contributors that can also pile on calories and carbohydrates. Foods such as prepackaged cookies, cakes and baked goods usually contain saturated fat and may contain trans fats. The sugar in these foods can raise your blood sugar, while the fat and calories can increase your risk for weight gain, which can contribute to high blood pressure and stroke.
Frozen Meals
If you are diabetic, you may want to avoid purchasing frozen meals. Frozen meals usually contain a high amount of preservatives, sodium, fat and sugar. They are usually very high in carbohydrates, which can cause a rapid rise in your body's blood sugar.
Fruit Juice
Stay away from fruit juice if you are diabetic. According to the Food Standards Agency, fruit juice is high in fructose, or fruit sugar, so it can cause blood sugar levels to rise quickly. Because of this, it's best for people with diabetes to drink juice with a meal and avoid having more than one small glass a day. If you do want to drink fruit juice, cut it in half with filtered water, which can cut the calories and sugar grams in half.
