Type 2 diabetes is a condition wherein the body is unable to produce insulin or repels insulin, leading to an imbalance in blood sugar levels. It is a chronic condition, and one can only manage the associated discomforts to a certain extent. Studies show that incorporating healthy foods and eliminating certain items from the diet can help manage type 2 diabetes to improve quality of life.

Here are a few common foods to avoid for type 2 diabetes.

Sugar and sweeteners
Processed foods and beverages that contain artificial sweeteners are the ones to absolutely avoid for type 2 diabetes. These include different types of desserts, candies, and sodas. Most aerated beverages contain more sugar in a single serving than what one would have during the day with a regular diet. The more processed sugar one consumes, the harder the body must work to produce insulin to break down the food into energy. The body also converts this excess insulin to be stored in the form of fat, increasing the risk of obesity and cholesterol.

Rich carbohydrates and white grains
While healthy carbs are essential for the body to break down and convert in energy, one must not indulge in rich carbohydrates and pure white starchy grains. Carb foods to avoid for type 2 diabetes particularly include processed and baked white flour goods, comprising white bread, white rice, and cereals. Foods made with processed flour, such as crackers, bagels, tortillas, muffins, cakes, and even pretzels, must also be omitted from the diet. These are carbs that the body is unable to process due to low levels of insulin as a result of diabetes. Instead, whole grains are a better option, as complex carbohydrates don’t interfere with blood sugar levels.

Fats in processed foods
The body needs a certain amount of healthy fats to support metabolic activity. However, this does not include foods made from processed, saturated, and refined trans-fats like butter, lard, palm oil, full-fat mayonnaise, and certain types of oily condiments. These are all unhealthy sources of fat that the body will not be able to digest effectively. Consumption also increases the chances of certain health complications, including cholesterol and obesity, both being high risk factors for diabetes. Only foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids help the body absorb essential vitamins, nutrients, and minerals. Otherwise, strictly avoid processed and refined foods that don’t feature omega-3 essentials.

Certain fruits
A healthy, well-balanced diet must incorporate nutritious fruits and vegetables. But that being said, there are certain dried fruits, veggies, and foods to avoid for type 2 diabetes, as they are still rich in natural sugars and fibers. Without adequate insulin in the body, it can be difficult for the body to break down these fibers. Dried fruits, canned fruits, jams, and jellies that contain preservatives, and even pickles that contain salt should be strictly avoided in the diet. Consumption of these foods can cause an imbalance in natural blood sugar levels.