Which foods should people with diabetes avoid?

People with diabetes should avoid foods that cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels. These include sugary drinks like sugar sweetened carbonated beverages like colas, packaged juices etc, sweets and desserts such as gulab jamun, jalebi, and ladoos, as well as refined carbs like white bread, noodles, and pastries. Processed snacks, fried foods like samosas and pakoras, and high-sodium items such as chips and papads should also be limited as they can negatively impact blood sugar control.

Are there foods that people with diabetes should limit?

Certain foods can make managing diabetes more challenging if consumed in excess or too frequently. These include those high in refined sugars, unhealthy fats, or with a high glycemic index. Examples are sugary beverages, deep-fried snacks, desserts, white rice, and foods made with maida (refined flour), like naan, pastries, or biscuits. Processed meats such as sausages and fried chicken may also contribute to weight gain and insulin resistance if consumed regularly. While these foods are not "worst," it's important to limit their intake and enjoy them occasionally as part of a balanced diet.

What foods are good for people with diabetes?

Foods that help manage blood sugar levels and support overall health include non-starchy vegetables like spinach, methi, karela, and lauki, as well as whole grains and millets such as brown rice, oats, and foxtail millet. Legumes and pulses like dal, chickpeas, and rajma are excellent sources of protein and fiber, while low-glycemic fruits like guava, jamun, and apples provide natural sweetness without spiking blood sugar. Healthy fats from nuts, seeds, and fatty fish, along with spices like fenugreek, cinnamon, and garlic, also support blood sugar control and overall well-being.

What meals can people with diabetes eat freely?

People with diabetes can enjoy meals made from non-starchy vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats in balanced portions. Examples include a mixed vegetable sabzi with whole-grain roti, khichdi made with millets and dal, or a bowl of vegetable soup paired with grilled chicken or paneer. These meals are low in sugar, nutrient-dense, and provide steady energy without causing significant blood sugar fluctuations but again, portion control is recommended.

How can I satisfy my hunger if I have diabetes?

To manage hunger without causing sugar spikes, opt for healthy, balanced snacks. Roasted nuts like almonds or walnuts and seeds such as flaxseeds or chia are great options. Low-glycemic fruits like guava or apple make a satisfying snack, while roasted chana or sprouts chaat with lemon and spices can curb hunger between meals. You can also enjoy protein-packed snacks like boiled eggs, grilled paneer, or a bowl of vegetable soup or buttermilk. These options are filling, nutritious, and help maintain stable blood sugar levels.

Nutrition - Fitterfly

Diabetes Management,Nutrition

Updated on: Jan 31, 2025

6 min Read

2591 Views

14 Essential List of Foods to Avoid in Diabetes

Learn 14 essential foods to avoid in diabetes, what foods can contribute to it, and discover the best foods to help manage blood sugar for better health.

Medically reviewed by Shilpa Joshi

Read this post

Diabetes Management,Diet,Nutrition,Weight Loss Management

Published on: Sep 21, 2023

5 min Read

2045 Views

Is Sugarcane Juice Good for Diabetes and Weight Loss?

Is Sugarcane Juice Good for Diabetes and Weight Loss? Get Informed Now! Let's uncover the facts and explore this traditional Indian summer drink in greater detail.

Medically reviewed by Shilpa Joshi

Read this post

Diabetes Management,Diabetes Nutrition & Diet,Nutrition

Published on: Sep 18, 2023

5 min Read

2052 Views

Is Cranberry Juice Good For Diabetes?

Discover if cranberry juice is a diabetes-friendly choice. Learn about its potential benefits and considerations for managing blood sugar levels

Medically reviewed by Shilpa Joshi

Read this post

Diabetes Management,Diabetes Nutrition & Diet,Nutrition

Published on: Sep 05, 2023

7 min Read

2979 Views

Are Protein Shakes Safe for People with Diabetes? Expert Insights

Wondering if protein shakes are safe for diabetes? Get the answers you need to make informed choices for managing your diabetes and maintaining a balanced diet.

Medically reviewed by Shilpa Joshi

Read this post

Diabetes Management,Diabetes Nutrition & Diet,Nutrition

Updated on: Jan 30, 2024

5 min Read

4306 Views

Is Anjeer Good for Diabetes?

Discover the potential benefits of anjeer (figs) for diabetes management. Explore their impact on blood sugar and overall health in this informative guide.

Medically reviewed by Shilpa Joshi

Read this post

Diabetes Management,Diabetes Nutrition & Diet,Nutrition

Published on: Aug 30, 2023

4 min Read

1232 Views

Is Kiwi Good for Diabetes?

Explore the relationship between kiwi and diabetes. Discover the benefits of including kiwi in a diabetes-friendly diet in this informative article.

Medically reviewed by Shilpa Joshi

Read this post

Diabetes Management,Diabetes Nutrition & Diet,Nutrition

Published on: Aug 30, 2023

6 min Read

1681 Views

Is Pumpkin Good for Diabetes?

Pumpkin actually has a lot of good stuff that we might not know about. Let's take a look at why pumpkin is actually a great option for people with diabetes.

Medically reviewed by Shilpa Joshi

Read this post

Diabetes Management,Diabetes Nutrition & Diet,Nutrition

Published on: Aug 22, 2023

6 min Read

2330 Views

Are Biscuits Good for Diabetes?

Want to know if you can have biscuits for diabetes? Let's find out if these delicious treats can be a part of a diabetes-friendly diet or not.

Medically reviewed by Shilpa Joshi

Read this post

Diabetes Management,Hindi,Nutrition

Updated on: Dec 04, 2023

5 min Read

12380 Views

क्या डायबिटीज में अंगूर खा सकते हैं?

क्या खट्टे-मीठे और बहुगुणी अंगूर डायबिटीज से ग्रसित लोगों के लिए उपयुक्त हैं? अंगूर से क्या ब्लड शुगर लेवल बढ़ता है? चलिए, पता करते हैं!

Medically reviewed by Shilpa Joshi

Read this post

Diabetes Management,Diabetes Reversal,Nutrition

Updated on: Nov 29, 2023

4 min Read

1493 Views

6 Diet Tips from a Nutritionist For Achieving & Maintaining Diabetes Remission

Looking for expert advice on achieving and maintaining diabetes remission? Look no further! This nutritionist-approved guide provides you with 6 essential diet tips to help you on your journey.

Medically reviewed by Shilpa Joshi

Read this post