12 Tricky Foods That Spike Blood Sugar Levels

If you have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, chances are that you have already been told by your doctor that you need to learn how to maintain your blood sugar levels. It is important to control your blood sugar levels for several reasons. First, controlling your blood sugar levels will simply help you feel better on a day to day basis.

In addition, maintaining your blood sugar levels will help prevent complications from the disease occurring in the future. Complications from diabetes include kidney disease, nerve damage, eye damage, stroke, high blood pressure, skin disorders, and more.

A diet that includes high amounts of carbohydrates is one of the main contributors to high blood sugar. Unfortunately there are many hidden contributors that are linked to high blood sugar levels. Here are 8 foods and lifestyle habits that may contribute to a spike in blood sugar levels.

1. Artificial Sweeteners

Anyone who has been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes knows that drinking regular soda is completely off-limits. However, most people think that drinking diet soda is okay. However, there has been research conducted that shows that consuming artificial sweeteners, such as those found in diet sodas and those that are often added to tea and coffee can actually cause glucose intolerance and an increase in blood sugar levels.

This could actually increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The overall feeling about artificial sweeteners is quite mixed. Since there has not been a lot of research conducted on these artificial sweeteners and the effect that they have on the body, it is a good idea to stay away from them as much as possible.

This is especially true if you have been diagnosed with diabetes. Avoiding sweeteners of any kind is recommended by the ADA.