Top 10 Foods to Avoid with High Blood Sugar
May 23, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Feng
Introduction
Cola, fruit drinks, milk tea, and other sugary beverages are rich in refined sugar, causing a rapid spike in blood sugar levels after consumption. These drinks contain virtually no other nutrients but quickly increase the glycemic load, placing additional strain on the pancreas. Individuals with high blood sugar should completely avoid such beverages and instead choose plain water, unsweetened tea, or sparkling water to prevent blood sugar dysregulation caused by the intake of "liquid sugar."
There is no such thing as a "list of ten foods forbidden for high blood sugar." Foods generally unsuitable for individuals with high blood sugar include sugar-sweetened beverages, sweet pastries, preserved candied fruits, butter-based baked goods, and glutinous rice products.
1. Sugar-sweetened beverages: Beverages such as cola, fruit drinks, and milk tea are rich in refined sugar, which can rapidly spike blood sugar levels after consumption. These drinks contain virtually no other nutrients but significantly increase the glycemic load quickly, burdening the pancreas. Individuals with high blood sugar should completely avoid these beverages and choose alternatives such as plain water, light tea, or sparkling water to prevent blood sugar fluctuations caused by "liquid sugar" intake.
2. Sweet pastries: Sweet baked goods like cakes, biscuits, and mooncakes contain large amounts of sucrose and refined flour, resulting in a very high glycemic index (GI). Even small amounts can cause a rapid rise in blood sugar levels within a short time and may lead to excessive calorie intake, worsening obesity and insulin resistance. It is recommended to substitute these with healthy staple foods such as whole wheat bread and unsweetened oats to satisfy satiety while managing blood sugar levels.
3. Preserved candied fruits: Candied fruits and preserved fruits are typically soaked and processed with large amounts of white sugar, often containing over 60% sugar. The processing also destroys nutrients like vitamins. Consumption of these foods rapidly releases sugar into the bloodstream, causing blood sugar fluctuations and potentially affecting metabolic functions due to additives. Individuals with high blood sugar should avoid these "hidden high-sugar" foods and opt for fresh, low-sugar fruits to satisfy cravings.
4. Butter-based baked goods: Cookies, pies, and flaky breads often contain large amounts of butter and cream, which not only exceed recommended calorie levels but also delay gastric emptying, indirectly making blood sugar control more difficult. High-fat diets can exacerbate insulin resistance, and long-term consumption may trigger diabetes and its complications. Choosing low-fat whole wheat baked goods and reducing saturated fat intake is recommended.
5. Glutinous rice products: Glutinous rice products such as zongzi (glutinous rice dumplings), tangyuan (sweet rice balls), and nian gao (sticky rice cake) are highly sticky, with tightly packed starch structures that are easily converted into glucose after digestion, leading to a rapid post-meal blood sugar rise with prolonged peak duration. Their glycemic index (GI) is usually higher than that of regular rice and wheat flour products. Individuals with high blood sugar should consume these cautiously; even small tastings should be accompanied by reduced intake of other staple foods to avoid excessive total calorie consumption.
It is recommended that individuals with high blood sugar adjust their diet under the guidance of a professional physician. Additionally, monitoring blood sugar changes to promptly identify and manage abnormalities is important. In daily meals, maintaining a balanced dietary structure and diversifying food intake can help sustain overall health.
