15 Worst Foods For Diabetics To Avoid

1. Sugary drinks. Sugary drinks, such as soda, fruit juice, and sweetened tea, are a major source of added sugar in the American diet. They can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels, which can be harmful for people with diabetes.Opens in a new windowwww.pennmedicine.orgSugary drinks are bad for diabetics
2. Processed foods. Processed foods are often high in unhealthy fats, sugar, and calories. They are also low in fiber and nutrients. Eating a lot of processed foods can contribute to weight gain and high blood sugar levels.Opens in a new windowwww.everydayhealth.comProcessed foods are bad for diabetics
3. White bread and pasta. White bread and pasta are made from refined flour, which is low in fiber and nutrients. They can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. Instead, choose whole grain bread and pasta, which are higher in fiber and nutrients.Opens in a new windowwww.everydayhealth.comWhite bread and pasta are bad for diabetics
4. French fries and other fried foods. Fried foods are high in unhealthy fats, which can raise cholesterol levels and contribute to heart disease. They are also high in calories, which can lead to weight gain.Opens in a new windowjoybauer.comFrench fries and other fried foods are bad for diabetics
5. Potatoes. Potatoes are a starchy vegetable that can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. However, they are also a good source of potassium, which is an important nutrient for people with diabetes. If you eat potatoes, choose small, baked potatoes and eat them with the skin on.Opens in a new windowwww.diabetesselfmanagement.comPotatoes are bad for diabetics
6. Sweetened breakfast cereals. Sweetened breakfast cereals are often high in sugar and low in fiber. They can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. Instead, choose unsweetened or low-sugar cereals that are high in fiber.Opens in a new windowwww.healthdigest.comSweetened breakfast cereals are bad for diabetics
7. Dried fruit. Dried fruit is a concentrated source of sugar. It can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. However, dried fruit is also a good source of fiber and nutrients. If you eat dried fruit, choose small portions and pair it with protein or fat to slow down the absorption of sugar.Opens in a new windowwww.medindia.netDried fruit are bad for diabetics
8. Energy drinks. Energy drinks are high in sugar, caffeine, and other stimulants. They can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels and lead to dehydration.Opens in a new windowdiabeticme.orgEnergy drinks are bad for diabetics
9. High-fat meats. High-fat meats, such as red meat, poultry with skin, and full-fat dairy products, are high in saturated fat. Saturated fat can raise cholesterol levels and contribute to heart disease.Opens in a new windowwww.breathewellbeing.inHigh-fat meats are bad for diabetics
10. Salad dressings. Many salad dressings are high in unhealthy fats, sugar, and calories. Choose low-fat or fat-free dressings that are low in sugar.Opens in a new windowwww.eatingwell.comSalad dressings are bad for diabetics
11. Sauces and condiments. Many sauces and condiments, such as ketchup, barbecue sauce, and mayonnaise, are high in sugar, unhealthy fats, and calories. Choose low-sugar or sugar-free options whenever possible.Opens in a new windowwww.everydayhealth.comSauces and condiments are bad for diabetics
12. Fast food. Fast food is often high in unhealthy fats, sugar, and calories. It is also low in fiber and nutrients. Eating a lot of fast food can contribute to weight gain and high blood sugar levels.Opens in a new windowwww.medicalnewstoday.comFast food is bad for diabetics
13. Alcohol. Alcohol can raise blood sugar levels in the short-term. It can also lead to weight gain and other health problems. If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation.Opens in a new windowwww.healthline.comAlcohol is bad for diabetics
14. Sodas. Soda is a sugary drink that can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. It is also high in calories and low in nutrients.Opens in a new windowwww.healthline.comSoda is bad for diabetics
15. Fruit juice. Fruit juice is a concentrated source of sugar. It can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. If you drink fruit juice, choose unsweetened or low-sugar juices and drink them in moderation.Opens in a new windowwww.netmeds.comFruit juice is bad for diabetics

It is important to note that everyone with diabetes is different and may have different dietary needs. It is always best to talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian to create a personalized meal plan that is right for you