Adult-onset diabetes, commonly referred to as type 2 diabetes, affects millions of people in the country. The condition impairs the body’s natural ability to process blood sugar (glucose) efficiently. Often, people may experience blurred vision, hunger, and fatigue with signs of frequent urination and increased thirst, indicating the onset of the condition. This condition can be managed with proper medication and treatment.

Diet and exercise also play a key role in knowing what to eat and, more importantly, foods to avoid for type 2 diabetes. Take a look!

Dried fruits
The process of drying can be either natural or artificial. You can also use a dehydrator (an apparatus that sucks the moisture out of fruits). Dried foods to avoid for type 2 diabetes include dates, raisins, prunes, apricots, and figs. The reason; dried fruits are high in natural fructose that the liver must metabolize on a daily basis. High levels of natural and processed fructose can affect the rate of metabolic activity and disrupt normal blood sugar levels. Any imbalance in blood sugar content can spike the symptoms associated with type 2 diabetes. The alternative is to switch to whole fiber fruits like apples, pears, and some berries for starters.

Processed carbohydrates
Carbs are a major source of energy for the body and are normally made up of sugar, starch, and fiber. This is broken down into glucose to support vital bodily functions. However, with type 2 diabetes, it becomes difficult for the metabolism to support this activity, resulting in an imbalance in glucose levels. While natural fibers and starch may not necessarily impair this function, one must avoid foods that have processed carbs and sugar. Some examples include baked goods and confectionery made with processed flour, sweets, and candies that are made with refined sugars, and other white bread and cereals made with processed flour. Monitoring carb intake can help maintain healthy blood glucose levels in the body by planning a diet that includes healthy carbs, including whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables.

Red and fatty meats
Meats are a great source of protein, no doubt. But there are sure cuts that one must avoid, especially when suffering from type 2 diabetes. Red meats, in particular, are rich in saturated fats that raise cholesterol levels and can trigger bouts of inflammation in the body, all complications that are linked with diabetes. These include popular favorites like ground beef, fatty cuts of bacon, sausages, hot dogs, slices of bologna, and even ribs. High levels of saturated fat in one’s daily diet also increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, a risk that is already high in people who have type 2 diabetes. The healthier option is to switch to lean cuts, including chicken, turkey, or fish. Lean cuts of beef and pork loin are also acceptable as long as they are consumed in moderation.

Alcohol
Apart from foods to avoid type 2 diabetes, one must also limit or exclude wines, beers, and hard liquors if previously in the habit of regular consumption. The liver processes medication for diabetes and the alcohol consumed, which can get too much for the single organ to handle.