Can people with high blood sugar eat baked flatbreads?

Mar 31, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I have had chronic conditions of high blood sugar and high blood pressure for a long time. Recently, my blood sugar has been slightly elevated again. There is a vendor downstairs selling Chinese sesame seed pancakes (shao bing), and I really feel like eating one. May I ask, is it okay for someone with high blood sugar to eat shao bing?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Feng

Patients with high blood sugar can eat bing (a type of Chinese flatbread), but should consume it in moderation.

As a common staple food, bing primarily consists of flour and contains a high amount of carbohydrates. These carbohydrates are converted into glucose during digestion, which can affect blood sugar levels. Therefore, if blood sugar is not well controlled, frequent or excessive consumption of bing may cause blood sugar fluctuations and be detrimental to diabetes management.

This does not mean that eating bing must be completely avoided. The key lies in appropriate consumption. It is recommended to include bing as part of an overall dietary plan, paying attention to portion control and avoiding excessive intake. At the same time, it is advisable to pair bing with vegetables, protein-rich foods, and healthy fats to balance the post-meal glycemic response. Additionally, choosing whole wheat or coarse grain bing instead of those made from refined flour can be beneficial, as they are richer in fiber and help slow down the rise in blood sugar levels.