Type 2 diabetes: These 8 foods raise blood sugar level, make you gain weight

Type 2 diabetes develops slowly and is heavily influenced by your daily diet and lifestyle. Genetics, too, plays a part in exposing you to the risk of developing this disease. If you want to steer clear of it, experts say that you have to be mindful of what you eat. There are some foods that increase the risk by raising blood sugar, which can make you gain weight and make your body less sensitive to insulin.

Dr Kavita Menon, a Delhi-based endocrinologist, says that what you eat today can either protect you from type 2 diabetes or make it worse tomorrow.

Here are 8 foods you should be careful about including in your daily diet

Also read | 8 early symptoms of diabetes you should not ignore

• Drinks with sugar

Sodas, energy drinks, and sweetened teas that are high in sugar send sugar straight into your bloodstream.

Healthy choice: Water with fruits, herbal teas without sugar, or sparkling water with a splash of lemon.

• White Bread and Refined Grains

They turn into glucose quickly, which makes blood sugar levels go up.

Healthy choice: Wholegrain bread, brown rice or quinoa, which are slower-digesting and higher in fibre.

• Pastries and Baked Goods

Cakes, donuts, and cookies contain high amounts of sugar and unhealthy fats

Healthy choice: Homemade treats made with whole grain flour, oats and natural sweeteners such as dates

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• Processed Meats

Processed meats like bacon, sausages, and deli meats have a strong connection to diabetes because of the preservatives used in it and saturated fats it contain.

Healthy choice: Open for fesh chicken, fish, eggs, or plant-based proteins like beans and lentils.

• Yoghurts with flavours

Most flavored yoghurts have more sugar than dessert.

Healthy choice: Greek yoghurt with berries or honey is a better way.

• Fried Foods

French fries, fried chicken, and deep-fried snacks are all bad for inflammation and can make you gain weight.

Healthy choice: Baked or air-fried with little or no oil, using olive or avocado oil

• Candy and Chocolate Bars

These will cause glucose spikes and are unhealthy, especially since they don't have any nutritional value.

Healthy choice: Dark chocolate (70% cocoa or more) is a better choice, but only in small amounts. Dried fruit is also a good choice, but only in small amounts.

• Sweetened Breakfast Cereals

Sweetened breakfast cereals, which are just as sugary as candy,  and can raise your blood sugar by the time you wake up.

Healthy choice: Steel-cut oats or whole grain muesli, in a pinch with nuts and fruit.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.