Diabetes is a condition that affects the way one's body reacts to and metabolizes glucose, or sugars. Type 1 diabetes is generally diagnosed in childhood and is usually treated with medical treatments such as insulin therapy. According to the Mayo Clinic, type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes in America and may develop at any age. Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy. A healthy dietary lifestyle can help support positive blood sugar levels. Since certain foods, such as unhealthy fats and refined carbohydrates, are known to exacerbate symptoms, avoiding such foods is recommended for those at risk for or currently diagnosed with diabetes.
Trans Fats
Trans fats, or trans-fatty acids, are created by adding hydrogen to vegetable oils to create a more solid form fat. Trans fats are cheaper than other fats to purchase and produce and increase the shelf life of foods. According to the American Heart Association, intake of trans fats is associated with increased risk for serious diseases, including type 2 diabetes. To prevent or help treat diabetes, limit or avoid trans fats consistently. Such foods include margarine, shortening, deep-fried foods and many processed foods, including canned soups, commercially prepared cookies, cakes and other snack foods and processed meats, such as sausage and pastrami. Choose healthier fats, such as olive oil, canola oil, fatty fish or nuts instead, as these fats, when consumed in modest, appropriate amounts, are linked with improved physical wellness. The American Heart Association recommends no more than 2 grams of trans fats per day for optimum health.
Saturated Fats
Saturated fats, such as those found in fatty red meats, deep-fried foods and high-fat dairy products, are associated with increased risk for heart disease. Fat is important, however, for proper brain function, nutrient absorption, food enjoyment and satiation. According to the Mayo Clinic, those with diabetes are at heightened risk for heart disease and related illnesses. If you have diabetes, limit or avoid foods high in saturated fat, such as butter, beef, beef liver, lard, high-fat cheeses, whole milk, ice cream and processed snack and dessert foods. Replace saturated fat sources with modest amounts of healthier fats, such as olive oil, canola, fatty fish or nuts, for best potential results.
Enriched Carbohydrates
Enriched carbohydrates are foods made from processed grains or plants, such as white flour, enriched wheat flour, corn syrup and sugar. Natural health expert, Andrew Weil, M.D., suggests a low-glycemic diet, or a diet based on foods that affect blood sugar levels only mildly, as a means of managing gestational and other forms of diabetes. Sugar and enriched flours have a dramatic impact on glucose levels and are thus considered extremely high-glycemic. Replace enriched white and wheat breads, pastas, instant rice and cookies, crackers, chips and other snack foods made primarily from enriched products with whole grain equivalents.
