For most people, the body regulates blood sugar levels when foods are eaten. For people with diseases such as diabetes, the body cannot regulate blood sugar levels efficiently, so blood sugar levels can become dangerously high after eating certain foods. The Nemours Foundation states that chronic high blood sugar levels can lead to major health problems such as heart disease and kidney failure. People who have high blood sugar levels or are prone to high blood sugar levels should avoid certain foods that make high blood sugar levels worse.
Potatoes
One way that foods containing carbohydrates are rated is by the glycemic index. The Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University states that foods are measured on how quickly they raise blood sugar levels in the glycemic index rating. Foods with low numbers raise blood sugar levels very little, but foods with numbers above 50 spike blood sugar levels quickly. A baked potato has a glycemic index of 76, according to the Pauling Institute, so it can spike blood sugars quickly.
Jelly Beans
Because jelly beans are made out of mostly sugar, it is understandable that people with high blood sugar should avoid them. Beyond that, they raise blood sugar levels very quickly when consumed, which can be dangerous for diabetics. The Pauling Institute states that jelly beans have a glycemic index of 78 and have 28g of carbohydrates for only 1 ounce of jelly beans.
Dates
Even though dates are a fruit and they contain vitamins and minerals, they should be avoided by people who have high blood sugar levels in favor of other fruits. This is because they have a very high glycemic index. The Pauling Institute states that dates have a glycemic index of 103, meaning they spike blood sugar levels almost instantly when consumed; even faster than some forms of sugar. They also have 40g of carbohydrates per 2 ounce serving.
White Bread
Oregon State University recommends that people with diabetes or who are at high risk for high blood sugar choose whole grains like whole wheat bread instead of white bread. This is because whole grains have more fiber and slow blood sugar spikes. White bread has a glycemic index of 73, according to the Pauling Institute, and very little fiber. This is why people with high blood sugar should avoid white bread.
About this Author
Sarah Davis earned her bachelor’s degree in nutrition from San Diego State University. She has worked in nutrition in the clinical setting and currently works as a licensed Realtor in California. Davis began writing about nutrition in 2006 and had two chapters published in “The Grocery Store Diet” book in 2009. She enjoys writing about nutrition and real estate and managing her website, RealtorSD.com.
