According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 100 million people living in the United States have diabetes or prediabetes. If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes, you know that some foods are better for you than others. During National Diabetes Month this November, our team at AFC Urgent Care Chapman Highway wants to offer some insight into the best—and the worst—food options.
Why Are Food Choices Important for People Living with Diabetes?
For a number of reasons, actually. Diabetes means that your blood sugar levels are elevated to unsafe levels. This occurs for a variety of reasons, but is also tied to the foods you eat, since they can cause blood sugar to fluctuate up and down. Certain foods help promote healthy blood sugar levels.
Healthy Options for Those With Diabetes
- Fatty fish
- Leafy greens
- Cinnamon
- Eggs
- Chia seeds
- Turmeric
- Greek yogurt
- Nuts
What Can Happen If Your Blood Sugar Level Is Too High?
When your blood sugar level is too high, particularly for a length of time, it can affect every aspect of your body, from your eyes to your feet. The symptoms of high blood sugar include fatigue, headaches, blurred vision and increased thirst. To avoid blood sugar spikes and keep your levels in a healthy spot, you’ll want to steer clear of certain foods.
Worst Foods for People With Diabetes
- Sugar-sweetened beverages
- Foods containing trans fats
- White bread, pasta and rice
- Sweetened breakfast cereals
- Honey, agave nectar and maple syrup
- Dried fruit
Do you think you might be experiencing the symptoms of diabetes? Stop by AFC Urgent Care Chapman Highway today for a medical evaluation.
