Diabetes is one of the most common ailments today. It’s triggered when the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or fails to absorb it correctly, causing blood sugar levels to spike. Although the disease can be managed with medicine, one cannot ignore the connection between diabetes and foods; what one eats eventually affects the glucose levels in the body. Hence, here are some eating habits that people with the disease should avoid.

1. Avoid refined carbs entirely
Carbs are harmful to diabetics; they’re broken down into glucose, increasing blood sugar levels. But not all carbs are equal. Patients can eat healthy, unprocessed carbs like pulses, dairy, beans, and certain fruits. However, refined carbs like white bread and rick cakes are a big no.

2. Avoid unhealthy foods
Eating healthy is beneficial for all illnesses, and diabetes is no exception. When it comes to diabetes and foods, patients should go for options loaded with minerals and vitamins.

3. Avoid unhealthy fats
Fats play a vital role in keeping the body healthy. But the trick is to choose them wisely from the different types. Foods rich in healthy fats include olive oil, seeds, and unsalted nuts.

4. Avoid too much salt
Keeping a close check on the amount of salt one eats every day is crucial. Diabetes and foods high in salt don’t sit well together. As per the American Diabetes Association, diabetics should limit their sodium intake to 2,300 mg, or one teaspoon, per day or lower.

5. Avoid processed red meat
Red meat in its processed form, such as sausages, ham, and bacon, is harmful to diabetics. In addition, red meat can increase the risk of diabetes by around 11% in those without the condition.

6. Avoid sugary foods
This is a no-brainer when it comes to diabetes and foods to avoid. Instead of having sugar in the form of fruit juices, sweets, and sugary drinks, one can choose options like plain milk, water, and tea without sugar.

7. Avoid alcohol
Alcohol is loaded with calories and, therefore, one should control their overall intake. According to a particular research study, drinking can affect sugar levels for up to 12 hours.

8. Avoid unhealthy snacks
Unlike what many people believe, snacking isn’t harmful to diabetes. However, patients must choose the suitable options to munch on. Snacking on chips, cookies, and chocolates isn’t recommended, whereas fruits, yogurt, and unsalted nuts are good choices.

9. Don’t miss out on fruits and veggies
Veggies and fruits are packed with nutrients and are beneficial in many ways. However, it’s advised to have whole fruits instead of juices since the former has more good qualities.

10. Choose smartly
There’s almost no proof that diabetic foods available in the market are healthy or effective in what they claim. Therefore, they need to be selected as per expert advice.

Diabetes and foods always go hand in hand. While some options are incredibly harmful, others can work in favor of the patient when eaten at the right time and in the right quantities.