Introduction
If you have diabetes, it is important to be mindful of what you eat for breakfast. Eating the wrong foods can cause your blood sugar to spike, leading to a host of health issues. To help you make the best choices for your health, Eat This Not That has compiled a list of the #1 worst breakfast to eat if you have diabetes. This list was created by a registered dietitian and includes foods that are high in sugar, fat, and calories, and low in fiber and protein. By avoiding these foods, you can help keep your blood sugar levels in check and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
The #1 Worst Breakfast to Eat If You Have Diabetes, Says Dietitian — Eat This Not That
If you have diabetes, it’s important to be mindful of what you eat for breakfast. Eating the wrong foods can cause your blood sugar to spike, leading to a host of health issues. According to dietitians, the worst breakfast to eat if you have diabetes is one that is high in sugar and refined carbohydrates. This includes sugary cereals, pastries, and other processed foods.
Instead, dietitians recommend eating a breakfast that is high in fiber and protein. This includes oatmeal, eggs, Greek yogurt, and whole grain toast. These foods will help keep your blood sugar levels stable and provide you with the energy you need to start your day.
It’s also important to include healthy fats in your breakfast. This can include nuts, nut butters, and avocado. These foods will help keep you full and provide you with essential nutrients.
When it comes to breakfast, it’s important to make sure you’re eating the right foods. Eating a breakfast that is high in sugar and refined carbohydrates can cause your blood sugar to spike, leading to a host of health issues. Instead, opt for a breakfast that is high in fiber and protein, and include healthy fats as well. This will help keep your blood sugar levels stable and provide you with the energy you need to start your day.
Over 10.5% of the U.S. population has been diagnosed with diabetes as of 2020, and over 34.5% of U.S. adults are prediabetic, making diabetes an extremely serious issue for Americans today.
Although fixed factors like age, genetics, and environment can affect your chances of getting diabetes, things like high blood pressure, living an inactive lifestyle, and a poor diet can increase your chances as well.
If you already have diabetes, things like exercise, insulin, medication, and a healthy diet can help you live a healthier life with your diagnosis. Foods that can raise your blood glucose levels, like things high in sugar and low in fiber, can be dangerous to eat for those already living with diabetes.
According to Courtney D’Angelo, MS, RD, author at GoWellness, one of the worst breakfasts to eat if you have diabetes is cereal and milk.
Here’s why sugary cereal and milk may not be your best breakfast choice, and for more healthy eating tips, make sure to check out Eating Habits to Avoid If You Don’t Want Diabetes.
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Why are cereal and milk potentially harmful to those with diabetes? The answer lies in the potential amounts of carbohydrates and sugar.
“Traditional cereal and milk for breakfast have the potential to drive up your blood glucose levels, especially if you choose a cereal with little to no fiber,” says D’Angelo.
Because diabetes greatly affects the way your body can process blood sugar, this may be a breakfast you want to stay away from.
Getting enough fiber can help you control blood glucose levels, so if you’re wanting to still eat cereal, make sure you choose one high in fiber like Cascadian Farm cereal or Magic Spoon. D’Angelo also suggests switching it up for something like oatmeal with nuts on top.
“With this breakfast, you’re getting whole grains with fiber and protein,” says D’Angelo. “As a bonus, nuts like almonds contain healthy monounsaturated fat, which research has shown can provide a steady blood sugar for your next meal.”
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