Can people with diabetes and hypertension eat instant noodles?
Disease description:
Recently, I need to take a long train journey and plan to bring instant noodles. However, I have diabetes and hypertension. May I ask, are people with diabetes and hypertension allowed to eat instant noodles?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Tian Hongbo
As a convenient food, instant noodles often contain high levels of sodium, sugar, and unhealthy fats, which may pose potential health risks to individuals with diabetes and hypertension.
High sodium intake can worsen hypertension, while excessive sugar and unhealthy fats may interfere with stable blood glucose control and have adverse effects on the cardiovascular system. Therefore, individuals with diabetes and hypertension are advised to minimize or avoid consuming instant noodles.
For patients with hypertension, even though the salt content in instant noodles may not immediately cause a sharp increase in blood pressure, long-term frequent and excessive consumption may contribute to weight gain, which can indirectly elevate blood pressure levels and exacerbate the condition.
To maintain good health, individuals with diabetes and hypertension are advised to follow a diet low in salt, fat, and sugar, prioritizing foods rich in dietary fiber. If individuals with diabetes or hypertension strongly desire to eat instant noodles, they may choose products that are low in sodium, free of added sugars, and rich in whole grains.
