Foods a Diabetic Should Never Eat

Diabetic diets all have one thing in common: They limit "carbs"--15g units of carbohydrates that may come from sugars, starches or preservatives that form blood glucose during digestion. Most Type 2 diabetics are not forbidden to eat these foods, but their consumption of them must be limited. For Type 1 diabetics, though, certain foods are used only as insulin replacements in crises. These foods should never be consumed in more than minor portions in a supervised diet.

Sugar

Sugar-dense frosting, regular soda and fudge all have concentrated refined sugar and little else in the way of nutrition. They immediately elevate blood glucose above safe levels.

Fructose

Fruits and vegetables contain fructose, which is one step closer to glucose than sugar in the digestion process. Diabetics should severely limit consumption of fruits like plums, mangoes and all dried fruits. Interestingly, carrots contain more fructose per ounce than most fresh fruits.

Starch

High-starch foods like rice, potatoes, gravy and breakfast cereals are converted into sugar during the digestion process, adding to the glucose load.

Refined Grains

Avoid refined or single grains. White bread, fried foods and cupcakes generally contain refined, single-grain flour, which goes straight to sugar in the digestive process. It's also used heavily in restaurant food.

Prepared Foods

Frozen dinners, "instant" potatoes and even frozen vegetables contain more sugar and starch (and thus more carbs) than their freshly prepared counterparts. Preservatives often include more sugar and large measures of salt.

Extras

Garnishes, croutons, fries, sauces and dressings---particularly those served in restaurants or with fast food---add carbohydrates, as well as calories.

Alcohol

Alcohol is toxic for everyone, but distilled spirits cause diabetics' blood glucose to "crash." Dry wine and beer in moderation appear not to be as dangerous.

Resources

• Food facts from the American Diabetic Association
• National Diabetes Clearinghouse
• The Mayo Clinic on eating out