Most people are aware that diabetics are at risk for This is because high blood glucose, or high blood sugar levels, puts people at risk for these problems. Yet, many of us don’t realize that we all need to be concerned about the dangers of high blood sugar levels to our overall health.
High blood sugar levels produce advanced glycation end products or AGEs. AEGs have been linked to the aging process, heart disease, and dementia, as well as serious eye diseases. And, while AGEs are more prevalent in people with diabetes or with blood sugar problems, they are still produced in the bodies of people who don’t have these health issues and they can cause serious health concerns.
The good news is that a diet consisting primarily of foods with a low glycemic index (GI) and avoiding foods with a high glycemic index helps prevent blood sugar levels from spiking and producing AEGs. It is important for everyone to know which foods to avoid and which foods to favor to keep blood sugar levels stable and to decrease the effects of damaging AGEs.
Good and Bad Carbs
We have heard the terms “good” and “bad” carbs. Bad carbs are foods that have a high glycemic index and cause problems with chronic inflammation. They put us at risk for eye disease such as, muscular degeneration and other health problems.
It’s important to avoid carbohydrates with a high glycemic index and favor those with a low glycemic index. A good rule of thumb is to avoid certain foods altogether such as: sugary foods; flour in general; products made from white flour such as pasta, cakes, cookies, etc; white rice; white potatoes; watermelon; and processed foods.
Try opting for whole, unprocessed foods such as: brown rice; nuts; slow-cooking oatmeal; beans; vegetables (particularly sweet potatoes, asparagus, red, green and orange peppers, squash, broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts); fruits (particularly apricots, cherries, tomatoes, and grapefruit); and high fiber foods.
Proper nutrition helps prevent eye diseases and health problems.