Type 2 diabetes, a chronic metabolic condition that affects how your body metabolizes sugar. Diabetes type 2 typically occurs in adults over 40-years old, however, it is becoming more common in younger adults and even children. Type 2 diabetes symptoms often include increased thirst, blurred vision, frequent urination, and fatigue. When left untreated, this condition can lead to serious health complications such as nerve damage, heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. The following foods should be avoided or moderated with type 2 diabetes:
1. Trans fatty fast foods
Trans fats are one of the worst fats you can eat if you have Type 2. They’re made by adding hydrogen to vegetable oil, which makes them solid at room temperature. This process is called “hydrogenation.” Eating trans fatty rich foods, like burgers, wings, and french fries raises your “bad” (LDL) cholesterol levels and lowers your “good” (HDL) cholesterol levels. This increases the risk for heart disease and stroke. Trans fats also make it harder for your body to control blood sugar levels. The American Heart Association recommends that diabetics avoid eating trans fats. If you can’t avoid them, limit your intake to less than 1% of your total daily calories.
2. White flour and pasta
Avoid foods that are high in refined carbs, like white flour and pasta. White flour removes the bran and germ from wheat kernels, leaving only the endosperm. This process strips away most of the fiber and nutrients, making it less healthy than whole wheat flour. In addition, eating foods made with white flour can cause spikes in blood sugar levels.
3. Processed meats
Bacon, sausage, ham, and other processed meats are loaded with saturated fat and sodium. Both can contribute to high blood pressure and heart disease—two conditions that are already increased in diabetics. Moreover, these meats are often high in advanced glycation end products (AGEs), which can accelerate the progression of the disease and its complications.
4. High Fructose corn syrup
HFCS (high fructose corn syrup) is a sweetener made from corn that’s often used in processed foods. It’s cheaper than other sweeteners and makes products taste sweeter. But HFCS can be dangerous for diabetics because it’s quickly metabolized by the body and can raise blood sugar levels.
5. Foods high in saturated fats
Saturated fats are abundant in animal products and by-products such as lard, red meat (ie., sausages, fatty cuts of red meat) and full-fat dairy products (i.e., butter and cheese). However, they can also be found in plant-based oils, such as coconut and palm oil. Studies show that saturated fats cause increased insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes patients.
