Ingredients that Should be Avoided by Diabetics
Trans-fatty acids
Trans-fatty acids are linked to diabetes mellitus, heart disease, morbid obesity and high cholesterol levels. Trans-fatty acids help the preserve foods to taste great, but your body can't make appropriate use of them as it cannot break them down. They affect the lining of the blood vessels as they inflame the arteries and may result in scars. The body produces cholesterol to protect these kinds of lesion, but it hardens the arteries and obstructs them. Fast foods are more likely to contain these kinds of fatty acids as they stabilize the ingredients. To lower your cholesterol levels, ensure that you opt for fresh foods.
Sodium
Significant amounts of sodium and other chemical preservations are present in packed meats so as to preserve its color and improve shelf life. Hot dogs, pepperoni, salami, bacon and bologna contain sodium nitrate which tends to increase your risk of cardiac disease and also raises the chances of developing type 2 diabetes. It also lowers the glucose intolerance. A large amount of sodium increases your risk of stomach cancer.
Artificial colors and flavorings
Artificial flavorings can lower the price of food items as they are low in cost. However, the lack the nutritional health benefits of original ingredients. Flavors are made out of many chemicals to copy the real ingredients. Aspartame is one such artificial sweetener that is used in a number of foods such as puddings, frozen desserts, gelatin, etc. You should stay away from foods that contain artificial flavorings.
High fructose corn syrup
Fructose corn syrup is an additional sweetener present in processed foods and refreshments. It is much more economical than sugar but contributes to liver disease, increases the bad cholesterol and lowers the good cholesterol. It is also found in salad dressings, fizzy drinks and cereals.
Diabetics should be careful about these foods and try to remove them from their daily diet. Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to some life-threatening health problems. Managing this problem becomes easier if you have proper knowledge about what you should eat and what you should avoid.