What should patients with diabetes avoid in their diet to maintain stable blood sugar levels?

For patients with diabetes, it is crucial to maintain stable blood sugar levels, and avoiding foods high in simple sugars is particularly important because these foods can cause rapid spikes in blood glucose levels. Simple sugars are quickly digested and absorbed into the bloodstream, leading to elevated blood sugar levels shortly after consumption. Examples include candy, sugary drinks, and baked goods made with white flour and sugar.

In contrast, unsaturated fats, dietary fiber, and controlled carbohydrate intake can be beneficial when incorporated appropriately into a diet for diabetes management. Unsaturated fats can support heart health, dietary fiber helps to slow down digestion and can improve glycemic control, and low-carbohydrate diets can be effective for some individuals with diabetes as they reduce overall carbohydrate intake, but it is essential to choose the right type of carbohydrates in moderation rather than eliminate them entirely.