Foods to Limit with Diabetes: A Practical Guide

People with diabetes can enjoy most foods in moderation, but limiting the following helps maintain glycemic control:

• Refined grains: White bread, white rice, regular pasta, crackers
• Sugary beverages: Soda, fruit juice, sweetened tea/coffee, sports drinks
• Processed snacks: Chips, cookies, cakes, pastries, candy
• High-fat meats: Bacon, sausage, hot dogs, salami
• Full-fat dairy: Whole milk, regular cheese, ice cream (choose low-fat)
• Fried foods: French fries, fried chicken, doughnuts
• Sweetened condiments: Ketchup, BBQ sauce, sweet relish

Focus on: Non-starchy vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, low-glycemic fruits. Individualize with a registered dietitian/CDE. Monitor carbohydrate portions and pair with fiber/protein/fat to blunt glucose spikes.