Soft drinks, candies, sweetened teas, syrups, and many dried or tropical fruits (such as lychee, longan, and watermelon) can rapidly spike blood sugar levels. Over time, this can make insulin less effective and lead to chronic fatigue, thirst, and weight changes.
2. Refined Grains
3. High-Fat Meats and Full-Fat Dairy Products
Saturated fats found in processed meats, fried foods, and certain dairy items can increase the risk of both diabetes and heart disease. Health organizations, including the American Diabetes Association, suggest keeping saturated fat intake below 7% of total daily calories.
Common high-fat foods to limit include:
- Fatty cuts of beef, lamb, or pork
- Processed meats such as bacon, sausage, or cold cuts
- Fried chicken or breaded meats
- Whole milk, butter, heavy cream, and rich cheeses like cheddar
Opting for lean proteins — such as fish, skinless poultry, tofu, beans, or lentils — can help protect both heart and blood sugar health.