5 foods to be avoided by people with diabetes during the festive season

Diabetes has spread its wings across the world, and it is practically impossible for anyone of us not to have a close relative who is dealing with this metabolic disorder. While staying active and leading a disciplined lifestyle are the best-known ways to manage diabetes, being aware of correct food choices also goes a long way to keep blood sugar in control. The festive season is the trickiest time to be able to stick to a healthy diet. Here are some of the foods that people with diabetes should avoid to manage their blood sugar even during the festive season.

Maintaining good health should be our prime focus. To achieve this, all of us should workout and eat healthy regularly. While festive season calls for celebrations, it is in our best interest to not go overboard with food and drinks when enjoying a good time with your family and friends. Moreover, people with diabetes have to be extra careful not to eat certain foods, which can be detrimental to their health. Here are 5 foods that should be avoided by people with diabetes during the festive season.

Sugary beverages

Sweetened drinks, particularly the ones with artificial sweeteners, are worst for people with diabetes. A high concentration of sugar in these drinks is known to result in insulin resistance, fat belly, and high cholesterol and blood sugar levels.

Sauces and condiments

Condiments, sauces, spreads, and dips prepared using preservatives such as ketchup and mayonnaise are loaded with sugar and/ or sodium, which can adversely affect the health of people with diabetes. It is best to go for hung-curd based dips or salsa to enjoy the snacks and other savories.

Packaged eatables

Munching on fried and calorie-rich snacks such as chips, crisps, and nachos are not a great idea, particularly for people with diabetes. These packaged savories are highly processed, fried, contain high sodium content, and can rapidly shoot the blood sugar levels.

Dry fruits

While many may assume dried nuts and dried fruits as the food of choice, it is best to stay away from it. This is because dried fruits are rich in calories and sugar. Each one-cup serving of raisins contains 115g of carbs as opposed to 27g when eaten in the fresh fruit form, that is, grapes. So, it is best to eat fresh fruits instead of dried fruits.

Traditional sweets

Many cultures have unique sweets and dessert preparations that are served traditionally during the festive season. This trend is quite prevalent in the Indian community, where there is a special sweet treat for every festival. It may be hardest to resist sweets and desserts, but sometimes it is best to practice self-control for the greater good.