Managing blood sugar levels can be a bit of a rollercoaster ride. You think you've got it all figured out, and then bam! You're hit with unexpected surprises. That's exactly what happened to me when I realized that nine foods I never thought would mess with my glucose levels actually did. Let me take you through my journey of discovery, sharing insights into these sneaky culprits and the lessons learned along the way.
Gluten-free Processed Foods
The worst sugar spike I had was after a healthy meal at a gluten-free restaurant. The problem was the wraps made from gluten-free flour. Gluten-free processed foods can be so refined to remove the gluten from the flour that all the fiber is lost in the process, which can spike your glucose levels quickly.
Sauces
BBQ season is quickly approaching, and if you want to be on the safe side, it is best to avoid most sauces and condiments. You can still enjoy good quality mustard and salad dressings made with herbs, oil, and vinegar. The hidden sugars in many condiments can unexpectedly elevate your glucose levels.
Dried Fruit
Dried fruit may sound like a healthy snack, and if you don't have problems with high sugar levels, it is, but these are very high in sugar. The concentration of natural sugars in dried fruits can cause more significant blood sugar rises than in fresh fruits, so opt for a fresh piece of fruit instead. If you still want to enjoy them moderately, have them with natural yogurt, which can help reduce their spike.
Sweet Potato Fries
Don't swap your regular fries for sweet potato fries if you are just doing it because they will help you control your sugar levels. Sorry to be the one telling you, but they won't. These are almost identical when it comes to spiking our glucose levels, so pick whatever you want, it won't make much of a difference!
Sweetened Nut Butters
The benefits of nut butters can be diminished by added sugars in sweetened versions. Choosing nut butters with no other ingredients, or making your own at home, is the best choice when looking after your overall health, and most importantly in this case, your sugar levels.
Coffee, Even without Sugar
One of the first things they asked me to do when I got diagnosed with type 2 diabetes was to check if black coffee with no added sugars would spike my sugar as some people are really sensitive to caffeine, and it can spike your glucose first thing in the morning.
Gummy Vitamins
But they are vitamins. Yes, but they certainly can spike your blood sugar levels. These vitamins are packed with sugars, which makes them more enjoyable to eat, and of course, the more flavorful they are, the more you will want to buy that brand. Somebody told me once that the worse the vitamin tastes, the better it is for you, and I'm starting to think that's right! Also, eating more fruits and veggies will definitely help increase your vitamin levels.
Sugar-Free Food
Unfortunately, sugar-free foods don't mean carb-free foods or saturated fats-free foods. Sugar-free foods can have other ingredients that may impact our sugar levels. Also, most of these contain Malitol, which can cause bloating and discomfort.
Seasonings
Some seasonings, like garlic powder, chili powder, or onion powder, contain a high amount of carbs, making them something we need to look at when cooking our food. Also, some mix seasonings, like fajita mix, contain sugar as one of the first ingredients. Always check the label for carb and sugar content.
11 High-Sodium Foods To Avoid For Better Heart Health
Did you know that most of us eat at least 5 teaspoons of salt a day? This is a lot more than our body needs. Eating high-sodium food can lead to heart problems, high blood pressure, and other serious health consequences, such as a stroke. Get to know the worst 11 foods when it comes to controlling your sodium intake, and eliminate them from your diet, or limit their consumption.
See Them Here: 11 High-Sodium Foods to Avoid for Better Heart Health
The 12 Worst Foods to Eat Before Bed
Sleep is a vital part of our daily routine, impacting everything from our mood to our brain function. But did you know that what you eat before bed can significantly affect the quality of your sleep? In this article, we explore how certain foods can disrupt your sleep. We’ll also provide healthier alternatives to help you make better choices for your pre-bedtime snack. So, whether you’re a night owl or an early bird, read on to discover how you can optimize your diet for a better night’s sleep.
See them here: The 12 Worst Foods to Eat Before Bed
The Top Health Benefits of Cherries
Incorporating cherries into your diet is a delicious and nutritious way to improve your health. Whether fresh, dried, frozen, or as juice, cherries can add a burst of flavor and an abundance of health benefits to your daily nutrition. Remember, maintaining a balanced diet complemented with a variety of fruits and vegetables is key to achieving optimal health.
See them here: The Top Health Benefits of Cherries
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