What should not be eaten when blood sugar is high?

May 24, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Feng
Introduction
These types of food contain large amounts of added sugar; for example, a can of cola contains approximately 35 grams of sugar, which can rapidly raise blood glucose levels. Individuals with high blood sugar may experience a sharp increase in glucose levels after consumption, and long-term intake may worsen insulin resistance and increase the risk of complications. It is recommended to substitute with sugar alternatives, although caution should be exercised as some sweeteners may affect metabolism and careful selection is required.    A high-salt diet can cause blood vessel constriction and elevate blood pressure.

People with high blood sugar generally should avoid consuming refined sugar products, high-sodium foods, fried foods, high-fat snacks, and fruits with high fructose content.

1. Refined Sugar Products

These foods contain large amounts of added sugar. For example, a can of cola contains about 35 grams of sugar, which can rapidly elevate blood glucose levels. Individuals with high blood sugar who consume these foods may experience sharp increases in blood glucose. Long-term consumption could worsen insulin resistance and increase the risk of complications. It is recommended to substitute with sugar alternatives, but note that some sweeteners may affect metabolism, so careful selection is necessary.

2. High-Sodium Foods

A high-salt diet can cause blood vessel constriction and elevated blood pressure, increasing the vascular burden on diabetic patients and raising the risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular complications. Salt may also indirectly impact insulin sensitivity. It is recommended to reduce the use of salt-containing seasonings such as soy sauce and oyster sauce, limit daily salt intake to no more than 5 grams, and consume more fresh vegetables.

3. Fried Foods

Fried foods are high in calories and contain trans fatty acids, which can worsen insulin resistance. A single piece of fried dough stick (youtiao) contains approximately 15 grams of fat. Long-term consumption can easily lead to obesity and abnormal blood lipids, further exacerbating high blood sugar. It is recommended to choose steaming, boiling, or roasting methods to reduce fat intake.

4. High-Fat Snacks

Snacks such as potato chips and cream biscuits contain large amounts of saturated and trans fats. For example, 100 grams of potato chips contain about 30 grams of fat. Excessive consumption can lead to obesity and impair blood sugar regulation. Even healthy nuts should be limited to less than 20 grams per day to avoid excessive calorie intake. It is recommended to substitute snacks with low-calorie options such as unsweetened yogurt or cucumber.

5. High-Fructose Fruits

Lychees and longan have fructose content exceeding 70%. Excessive intake can be converted into fat and affect blood sugar levels. About ten lychees contain approximately 30 grams of sugar. It is recommended to choose low-fructose fruits such as apples and strawberries, with each serving not exceeding 200 grams, preferably consumed between meals.

Individuals with high blood sugar and diabetic patients should follow the guidance of a doctor or nutritionist to develop a personalized dietary plan, balance dietary structure, appropriately control total calorie and sugar intake, and increase physical activity to maintain blood sugar levels within a normal range.

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