Fruit flavored yogurt
Fruit-flavored yogurt might seem like a healthy snack option, but it’s one of the foods that individuals with diabetes should approach with caution. Despite its healthy image, fruit-flavored yogurt can be surprisingly high in added sugars, which can lead to unexpected spikes in blood glucose levels. A typical serving of fruit-flavored yogurt can contain as much as 19 grams of sugar, much of it added, rather than naturally occurring from the fruit or milk.
This high sugar content can disrupt blood sugar control, a critical aspect of diabetes management. While yogurt does offer beneficial nutrients such as calcium and protein, the added sugars in fruit-flavored varieties counteract these benefits for those managing diabetes.
Moreover, many fruit-flavored yogurts are made from low-fat or non-fat milk in an attempt to reduce calorie content, but this can inadvertently lead to an increase in sugar content to compensate for the reduced fat and ensure flavor. For individuals with diabetes, consuming foods with added sugars can not only lead to poor blood sugar control but also contribute to weight gain and increase the risk of heart disease.
Therefore, it’s advisable to opt for plain, unsweetened yogurt and add fresh fruit for flavor. This allows for the enjoyment of yogurt’s health benefits, such as probiotics for gut health and protein for muscle maintenance, without the negative impacts of high sugar intake. Always reading labels to check for added sugars and opting for whole, unprocessed foods where possible is key to managing diabetes effectively.