Foods to avoid with diabetes: a complete guide to foods to limit and healthier alternatives
Living with diabetes does not mean giving up all the foods you enjoy. In fact, modern diabetes management is far more flexible than many people realise. Rather than following long lists of forbidden foods, the focus is on understanding which foods are more likely to raise blood sugar, choosing healthier alternatives where possible, and enjoying all foods in appropriate portions as part of a balanced eating pattern.
Some foods are digested very quickly, causing blood glucose levels to rise rapidly, while others provide fibre, protein and healthy fats that help slow digestion and promote more stable blood sugar levels. Learning the difference allows you to make informed decisions without feeling deprived or overwhelmed.
Whether you are looking for a complete Diabetic food guide, trying to understand What can a diabetic eat, building the Best diabetic diet, or following practical Diet guidance for diabetics, this guide explains which foods are best limited, why they affect blood sugar, and the healthier alternatives that can help you enjoy satisfying meals while supporting your overall health.
By the end of this guide, you will understand which foods deserve extra attention, how to make smarter everyday food choices, and why successful diabetes management is based on long-term healthy eating habits rather than avoiding individual foods altogether.
Explore more diabetes friendly food guides
Learn which foods are best limited with diabetes, why they affect blood sugar, and discover healthier alternatives to help you make confident everyday food choices.
Do people with diabetes need to avoid certain foods?
The simple answer is no. Very few foods are completely off limits for people with diabetes. Modern diabetes management focuses on building healthy eating habits rather than following long lists of forbidden foods. In most cases, what matters most is the type of food you choose, the portion you eat, how often you eat it, and how it fits into your overall eating pattern.
Some foods are more likely to raise blood sugar quickly because they contain large amounts of refined carbohydrates or added sugars and provide little fibre or protein. Others are higher in saturated fat, sodium or calories, making them less suitable as everyday choices. Limiting these foods and choosing healthier alternatives more often can help support better blood sugar management and long-term health.
It is also important to remember that no single food causes or controls diabetes on its own. A balanced eating pattern that includes vegetables, whole grains, legumes, fruit, dairy, healthy fats and suitable sources of protein is generally far more important than focusing on individual foods in isolation. Making gradual, sustainable improvements usually leads to better long-term results than following overly restrictive diets.
If you are just starting your journey, our Diabetic food guide provides an excellent overview of healthy eating with diabetes. You can also explore the Best diabetic diet for practical meal planning ideas and follow our Diet guidance for diabetics to build eating habits that support both blood sugar control and overall wellbeing.
What foods should people with diabetes limit?
There is no universal list of foods that everyone with diabetes must avoid completely. Instead, certain foods are best eaten less often or in smaller portions because they are more likely to cause rapid rises in blood sugar, contribute excess calories, or provide relatively little nutritional value. Learning which foods to limit allows you to make informed choices without unnecessarily restricting your diet.
The main groups of foods that are worth paying closer attention to include:
- Foods high in added sugars.
- Refined grains and highly processed carbohydrates.
- Sugar sweetened drinks.
- Highly processed snack foods.
- Fried foods and foods high in unhealthy fats.
- Large portions of high carbohydrate foods.
- Highly processed convenience foods that are high in sodium, sugar and saturated fat.
Many of these foods can still be enjoyed occasionally, particularly when eaten in sensible portions as part of a balanced meal. The goal is not perfection but consistency. Replacing everyday choices with foods that contain more fibre, protein and healthy fats can help improve blood sugar management while making meals more satisfying.
Throughout this guide, we explore each of these food groups in detail and link to dedicated guides where appropriate. You can also learn more about choosing healthier options in our Vegetables for diabetics, Fruits for diabetics, Grains for diabetics, Protein foods for diabetics, Legumes and pulses for diabetics, Nuts for diabetics, Seeds for diabetics, Dairy for diabetics, Drinks for diabetics, Snacks for diabetics and Sweeteners for diabetics guides.
Foods high in added sugar
Foods and drinks that contain large amounts of added sugar are among the least helpful choices for people with diabetes because they often provide plenty of calories but very little fibre, protein or other nutrients. Without these nutrients to slow digestion, sugar is absorbed quickly, which can lead to rapid rises in blood glucose levels.
This does not mean sugar must be avoided completely. An occasional treat can usually fit into a healthy eating pattern, especially when enjoyed in moderation. However, foods high in added sugar are best treated as occasional foods rather than everyday staples.
Common examples include:
- Sugary soft drinks.
- Sweets and confectionery.
- Cakes and pastries.
- Biscuits.
- Doughnuts.
- Muffins.
- Sweet breakfast cereals.
- Chocolate spreads.
- Jam and preserves.
- Maple syrup and other sugar syrups.
Many foods marketed as “low fat” can also contain surprisingly large amounts of added sugar to improve flavour, so checking the nutrition label is often worthwhile.
When you want something sweet, choosing foods that contain natural sugars alongside fibre and other nutrients is usually a better option. Fresh fruit, unsweetened yoghurt with berries, or a small portion of nuts with fruit can often satisfy a sweet craving while having a gentler effect on blood sugar than highly processed sugary foods.
If you enjoy sweet foods regularly, our dedicated guides explain how different choices compare, including Fruits for diabetics, Sweeteners for diabetics, Drinks for diabetics, Can a diabetic eat jam?, Can a diabetic eat maple syrup?, Can a diabetic eat chocolate spread?, Can a diabetic eat doughnuts? and Can a diabetic eat muffins?
Refined carbohydrates and highly processed grains
Refined carbohydrates are foods that have been processed to remove much of their natural fibre, vitamins and minerals. Because they are digested more quickly than whole grain alternatives, they often cause blood sugar to rise faster and may leave you feeling hungry again sooner.
Whole grains still contain carbohydrates, but their higher fibre content generally slows digestion and can help produce a more gradual rise in blood glucose when eaten in appropriate portions. Swapping refined grains for whole grain options is one of the simplest ways to improve the overall quality of your diet.
Foods that are commonly high in refined carbohydrates include:
- White bread.
- White rice.
- Croissants.
- Danish pastries.
- Many breakfast cereals.
- Crackers made from refined flour.
- White pasta.
- Cakes, pastries and other baked goods made with refined flour.
Choosing whole grain alternatives more often can increase your fibre intake while helping you feel fuller for longer. Portion size still matters, but replacing refined grains with less processed options is generally a positive step for both blood sugar management and overall health.
Some refined grain foods can still be enjoyed occasionally, especially when eaten as part of a balanced meal containing protein, healthy fats and vegetables. The aim is to make healthier choices most of the time rather than trying to eliminate every refined carbohydrate from your diet.
To learn more about specific grain-based foods, see our Grains for diabetics, Can a diabetic eat white bread?, Can a diabetic eat wholegrain bread?, Can a diabetic eat croissants?, Can a diabetic eat Danish pastries?, Can a diabetic eat granola?, Can a diabetic eat breakfast bars? and Can a diabetic eat cereal bars? guides.
Highly processed snack foods
Many packaged snack foods are designed to be convenient and tasty, but they are often high in refined carbohydrates, added sugars, unhealthy fats or sodium while providing relatively little fibre or protein. These foods can be easy to overeat and may contribute to larger blood sugar rises, especially when eaten between meals.
Examples of highly processed snack foods include:
- Crisps.
- Flavoured crackers.
- Snack mixes with added sugars.
- Sweet biscuits.
- Chocolate bars.
- Confectionery.
- Sugary cereal bars.
- Processed snack cakes.
This does not mean every packaged snack is unsuitable. Some snacks are much better choices than others, particularly those that provide protein, fibre or healthy fats. Reading nutrition labels and choosing less processed options can make a significant difference.
Healthier snack ideas include:
- A small handful of unsalted nuts.
- Plain or Greek yoghurt.
- Fresh vegetables with hummus.
- Cottage cheese with cucumber or tomatoes.
- A piece of fruit with peanut butter or almond butter.
- Roasted chickpeas or other pulses.
Choosing satisfying snacks that contain protein, fibre and healthy fats can help reduce hunger between meals while supporting more stable blood sugar levels.
For more ideas, explore our Snacks for diabetics, Nuts for diabetics, Seeds for diabetics, Legumes and pulses for diabetics, Dairy for diabetics, Can a diabetic eat peanut butter?, Can a diabetic eat almond butter?, Can a diabetic eat Greek yoghurt?, Can a diabetic eat yoghurt? and Can a diabetic eat cottage cheese? guides.
Sugar sweetened drinks
Sugar sweetened drinks are among the biggest sources of rapidly absorbed sugar in many people’s diets. Unlike solid foods, sugary drinks are consumed quickly and contain little or no fibre, protein or healthy fat to slow the absorption of glucose. As a result, they can cause blood sugar levels to rise rapidly while providing very little nutritional value.
Common sugar sweetened drinks include:
- Regular fizzy drinks.
- Cola and lemonade.
- Energy drinks.
- Sweetened fruit drinks.
- Sweetened iced teas.
- Sweetened coffee drinks.
- Flavoured milk drinks with added sugar.
- Cordials and squashes containing added sugar.
Even drinks that appear healthy can contain significant amounts of sugar. Some fruit drinks, smoothies and flavoured beverages may contain as much sugar as soft drinks, so it is always worth checking the nutrition label rather than relying on marketing claims.
Water remains the best everyday drink for most people with diabetes, but there are many other enjoyable options. Unsweetened tea, coffee without added sugar, sparkling water, and many sugar-free drinks can all form part of a healthy eating pattern.
If you are treating hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar), however, sugar sweetened drinks have an important medical role because they provide rapidly absorbed glucose. They should not be avoided in this situation and should be used according to your healthcare team’s advice.
To learn more about making healthier drink choices, read our Drinks for diabetics guide and our dedicated articles on Can a diabetic drink fruit juice?, Can a diabetic drink smoothies?, Can a diabetic drink energy drinks?, Can a diabetic drink sports drinks?, Can a diabetic drink diet drinks?, Can a diabetic drink coffee? and Can a diabetic drink tea?.
Fried foods and foods high in unhealthy fats
Fried foods and foods that are high in saturated or trans fats do not usually raise blood sugar as quickly as sugary foods, but eating them regularly may make it more difficult to maintain a healthy weight and can increase the risk of heart disease. This is especially important because people with diabetes already have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.
Many fried and highly processed foods are also high in calories, sodium and refined carbohydrates, making them less nutritious choices for everyday meals.
Examples include:
- Deep fried chips.
- Fried chicken.
- Fried snacks.
- Crisps cooked in unhealthy oils.
- Fast food meals.
- Pastries made with hydrogenated fats.
- Some commercially baked products.
- Processed foods high in saturated fat.
Rather than avoiding these foods completely, it is usually better to enjoy them occasionally while choosing healthier cooking methods most of the time. Baking, grilling, steaming, roasting and air frying with minimal oil can often produce delicious meals with less saturated fat.
It is also worth paying attention to the type of fat you eat. Replacing foods high in saturated fat with healthier unsaturated fats from foods such as nuts, seeds, olive oil etc., may support heart health as part of an overall balanced eating pattern.
To build healthier everyday meals, explore our Diet guidance for diabetics, Best diabetic diet, Vegetables for diabetics, Protein foods for diabetics, Nuts for diabetics and Seeds for diabetics guides.
Highly processed convenience foods
Convenience foods can save time, but many ready meals, packaged foods and takeaway options contain large amounts of refined carbohydrates, added sugars, saturated fat and sodium. While they are not all unhealthy, relying on highly processed convenience foods too often may make it more difficult to manage blood sugar and support long-term health.
Common examples include:
- Ready meals.
- Instant noodles.
- Frozen pizzas.
- Processed meat products.
- Fast food meals.
- Breaded and battered foods.
- Packaged pasta meals.
- Highly processed frozen snacks.
Many convenience foods are also low in vegetables and fibre, making them less filling than meals prepared from whole or minimally processed ingredients. Whenever possible, choosing products with shorter ingredient lists, less added sugar and more fibre can be a healthier option.
Preparing simple meals at home does not have to be complicated. A balanced meal made with vegetables, whole grains, legumes or pulses, lean protein and healthy fats is often just as quick as heating a ready meal and usually provides better nutrition. Keeping healthy staples in your cupboard, fridge and freezer can also make it easier to prepare nutritious meals on busy days.
When buying packaged foods, compare nutrition labels and pay attention to serving sizes, carbohydrate content, fibre, added sugars, saturated fat and sodium rather than relying on marketing claims on the front of the package.
For practical meal planning ideas and healthier everyday food choices, explore our Diabetic food guide, Best diabetic diet, Diet guidance for diabetics, Breakfast for diabetics, Vegetables for diabetics, Protein foods for diabetics and Legumes and pulses for diabetics guides.
Large portions of high carbohydrate foods
Carbohydrates are an important source of energy and do not need to be eliminated from a diabetes-friendly diet. However, eating large portions of carbohydrate-rich foods at one time can result in a greater rise in blood sugar than eating more moderate portions as part of a balanced meal.
Even healthy carbohydrate foods can affect blood glucose when portion sizes become too large. The aim is to choose higher quality carbohydrates and enjoy them in amounts that suit your individual needs.
Examples of carbohydrate foods where portion size matters include:
- Bread.
- Rice.
- Pasta.
- Potatoes.
- Breakfast cereals.
- Porridge.
- Oats.
- Fruit.
- Milk and yoghurt.
- Legumes and pulses.
Rather than removing these foods from your diet, it is usually more helpful to combine them with foods that contain protein, healthy fats and fibre. For example, adding beans to rice, eating yoghurt with nuts, or serving potatoes alongside plenty of vegetables and a protein source can help create a more balanced meal.
Using smaller plates, measuring portions occasionally and eating mindfully can also make it easier to avoid unintentionally eating more carbohydrates than you need. Over time, these simple habits can contribute to better blood sugar management without making meals feel restrictive.
For practical guidance on choosing and balancing carbohydrate foods, explore our Breakfast for diabetics, Grains for diabetics, Fruits for diabetics, Legumes and pulses for diabetics, Dairy for diabetics, Can a diabetic eat porridge?, Can a diabetic eat overnight oats?, Can a diabetic eat chia pudding?, Can a diabetic eat lentils? and Can a diabetic eat smoothies? guides.
Why do some foods raise blood sugar more than others?
Not all carbohydrate foods affect blood sugar in the same way. How quickly your blood glucose rises after eating depends on several factors, including the amount and type of carbohydrate, the fibre content of the food, how it is prepared, and whether it is eaten alongside protein or healthy fats.
Foods that are highly processed or made with refined carbohydrates are usually digested more quickly. This allows glucose to enter the bloodstream rapidly, leading to larger blood sugar spikes. In contrast, foods that are rich in fibre, protein or healthy fats are generally digested more slowly, resulting in a steadier release of glucose.
Several factors influence how a food affects blood sugar:
- The total amount of carbohydrate.
- The amount of dietary fibre.
- Whether the carbohydrate is refined or whole.
- The presence of protein and healthy fats.
- Portion size.
- How the food is cooked or processed.
- Whether it is eaten on its own or as part of a balanced meal.
For example, eating a large serving of white bread with jam is likely to raise blood sugar much more quickly than eating a smaller portion of wholegrain bread with peanut butter and natural yoghurt. Although both meals contain carbohydrates, the second provides more fibre, protein and healthy fats, which help slow digestion.
Understanding these principles makes it much easier to choose foods wisely without memorising long lists of foods to avoid. Our Grains for diabetics, Breakfast for diabetics, Fruits for diabetics, Protein foods for diabetics and Dairy for diabetics guides explain how different foods fit into a balanced diabetes-friendly eating pattern.
Healthier alternatives to common foods
Avoiding foods completely is rarely necessary. In many cases, making a simple swap can reduce added sugars, increase fibre or improve the overall nutritional quality of a meal without sacrificing enjoyment. Small, sustainable changes are often easier to maintain than major dietary restrictions.
The table below highlights some practical alternatives to foods that are commonly limited by people with diabetes.
| Instead of... | Try... |
|---|---|
| Sugary breakfast cereals | Porridge, unsweetened muesli or wholegrain cereals |
| White bread | Wholegrain or seeded bread |
| Sugary soft drinks | Water, sparkling water or unsweetened drinks |
| Sweet biscuits | A handful of nuts or plain yoghurt with berries |
| Chocolate spread | Peanut butter or almond butter, preferably without added sugar |
| Jam | Fresh fruit or nut butter as a topping |
| White rice | Brown rice or another whole grain |
| Fried snacks | Roasted chickpeas, nuts or seeds |
| Sugary desserts | Fresh fruit with plain or Greek yoghurt |
| Ice cream | Plain yoghurt with fruit or a small homemade fruit-based dessert |
These swaps are not about finding “perfect” foods. They simply help increase fibre, protein and healthy fats while reducing foods that are more likely to cause rapid blood sugar rises. Even making one or two healthier substitutions each day can make a meaningful difference over time.
Remember that no single food determines whether your diet is healthy. A balanced eating pattern built around nutritious everyday foods, sensible portions and occasional treats is usually far more effective than trying to eliminate every less healthy option.
For more practical ideas, explore our Breakfast for diabetics, Grains for diabetics, Fruits for diabetics, Vegetables for diabetics, Dairy for diabetics, Nuts for diabetics, Seeds for diabetics, Legumes and pulses for diabetics, Sweeteners for diabetics and Drinks for diabetics guides.
Frequently asked questions about foods to avoid with diabetes
Choosing the right foods with diabetes can feel confusing, especially with so much conflicting advice online. Below are answers to some of the most common questions about foods to avoid with diabetes, foods to limit, healthier alternatives and how to build a balanced eating pattern that supports healthy blood sugar levels.
Should people with diabetes avoid sugar completely?
No. Most people with diabetes do not need to eliminate sugar entirely. The overall quality of your diet, portion sizes and total carbohydrate intake are usually more important than avoiding every food that contains sugar. Sugary foods are best enjoyed occasionally rather than as everyday choices.
Are all carbohydrates bad for diabetes?
No. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy. Whole grains, legumes, fruit, vegetables and dairy foods all contain carbohydrates but also provide valuable nutrients. Choosing higher fibre carbohydrates and eating appropriate portions is generally more beneficial than avoiding carbohydrates altogether.
Learn more in our Grains for diabetics, Legumes and pulses for diabetics, Fruits for diabetics and Dairy for diabetics guides.
Can people with diabetes eat desserts?
Yes. Desserts can usually be enjoyed occasionally as part of a balanced diet. Smaller portions, healthier ingredients and eating desserts after a balanced meal may help reduce their impact on blood sugar.
What is the worst food for diabetes?
There is no single “worst” food. Foods that are high in added sugar, refined carbohydrates and unhealthy fats are generally best limited, but no individual food determines your overall health. Your usual eating pattern matters far more than an occasional treat.
Are artificial sweeteners better than sugar?
Sugar substitutes can reduce sugar intake and may be helpful for some people, but they should not replace an overall healthy eating pattern. Water and naturally less sweet foods are still the best everyday choices.
Learn more in our Sweeteners for diabetics guide.
Is fruit too high in sugar for people with diabetes?
No. Whole fruit contains natural sugars, but it also provides fibre, vitamins and antioxidants. Most people with diabetes can enjoy fruit as part of a balanced diet, although portion sizes still matter.
Read more in our Fruits for diabetics guide.
Can I still eat bread, rice and potatoes?
Yes. These foods can all fit into a diabetes-friendly diet. Choosing whole grain varieties where possible, watching portion sizes and combining them with protein, healthy fats and vegetables can help support steadier blood sugar levels.
See our Grains for diabetics guide for practical advice.
Is it better to cook at home?
Preparing meals at home more often gives you greater control over ingredients, portion sizes and cooking methods. However, you can still make healthy choices when buying convenience foods or eating out by reading nutrition labels and selecting less processed options whenever possible.
For more practical advice, see our Diet guidance for diabetics and Best diabetic diet guides.
We hope these answers have helped clarify some of the most common questions about foods to avoid with diabetes. Remember that successful diabetes management is about your overall eating pattern rather than avoiding individual foods. If you’re looking for more practical guidance, explore our Diabetic food guide, Best diabetic diet and Diet guidance for diabetics, along with our detailed food group guides to help you make confident everyday food choices.
Explore more diabetes food guides
Foods to avoid with diabetes are just one part of building a healthy eating pattern. Explore the guides below for more detailed information about breakfast for diabetics, fruits for diabetics, vegetables for diabetics, grains for diabetics, protein foods for diabetics, dairy for diabetics, nuts for diabetics, seeds for diabetics, legumes and pulses for diabetics, sweeteners for diabetics, drinks for diabetics and snacks for diabetics.
You can also explore broader guidance on the best diabetic diet, food choices for diabetics, diet guidance for diabetics and what can a diabetic eat?, or use the type 2 diabetes diet sheet for practical meal planning. The diabetic food guide provides a complete food group reference, bringing together practical advice to help you make confident everyday food choices.
What can a diabetic eat?
Start with the master guide to diabetic eating, covering food groups, balanced meals, meal planning and clear pathways to every detailed food guide.
Best diabetic diet
Compare Mediterranean, DASH, lower-carbohydrate and plant-forward eating strategies, with weight management, sustainability and long-term health in mind.
Breakfast for diabetics
Explore healthy breakfast foods and practical meal ideas, including higher-protein, lower-carbohydrate, quick and grab-and-go options for balanced mornings.
Diabetic food guide
Use a complete food reference organised by food group, with concise category summaries and links to detailed guides on foods and food types.
Diet guidance for diabetics
Learn the fundamentals of healthy diabetic eating, including carbohydrates, protein, fats, fibre, meal timing, portions, the plate method and balanced meals.
Drinks for diabetics
Compare water, tea, coffee, milk, juices, smoothies, sweetened drinks and alcohol, with guidance on hydration and healthier beverage choices.
Food choices for diabetics
Make better everyday decisions through guidance on shopping, food labels, product comparisons, healthier swaps, eating out and balancing meals.
Fruits for diabetics
Compare suitable fruits, serving sizes and glycaemic impact, with guidance on fresh, frozen, canned and dried fruit and practical portions.
Grains for diabetics
Explore rice, oats, barley, quinoa, bread, pasta and cereals, with guidance on whole versus refined grains, serving sizes and portions.
Legumes and pulses for diabetics
Learn about beans, lentils, chickpeas and peas, including their fibre, protein and carbohydrate content, portions and practical meal ideas.
Nuts for diabetics
Compare individual nuts, their healthy fats and nutrients, suitable portions and varieties without excessive salt, sugar or added coatings.
Protein foods for diabetics
Explore plant proteins, tofu, soy foods, legumes, dairy proteins and other choices, with guidance on balanced meals and healthy protein intake.
Seeds for diabetics
Learn about chia, flax, pumpkin, sunflower and sesame seeds, including their nutrition, portions and simple uses in meals and snacks.
Snacks for diabetics
Find homemade and shop-bought snack ideas, balanced combinations, portable choices and sensible portions for managing hunger between meals.
Sweeteners for diabetics
Compare stevia, monk fruit, sugar alcohols, artificial sweeteners and other alternatives, including safety, limitations and everyday use.
Type 2 diabetes diet sheet
Access practical meal plans, serving guides, shopping lists and printable resources to help put healthy diabetic eating into everyday practice.
Vegetables for diabetics
Compare non-starchy and starchy vegetables, their fibre and carbohydrate content, suitable portions, cooking methods and meal ideas.
Dairy for diabetics
Compare milk, yoghurt, cheese and dairy alternatives, considering carbohydrates, added sugar, protein, saturated fat and suitable portions.
These guides are designed to work together, with each covering a different aspect of diabetes-friendly eating in greater detail. Use them to explore individual food groups, identify foods to limit, discover healthier alternatives, compare everyday choices and gradually build a balanced eating pattern that supports healthy blood sugar management.
Final takeaway
Healthy eating with diabetes is not about avoiding every food that contains sugar or carbohydrates. The most effective approach is to build meals around nutritious everyday foods, choose higher fibre options where possible, keep portions appropriate for your individual needs and enjoy less healthy foods in moderation. Building a balanced Breakfast for diabetics and making informed choices from the Grains for diabetics guide are good places to start.
Base most of your meals on vegetables, whole grains, legumes and pulses, suitable protein foods, dairy foods and healthy fats, while keeping sugary foods, refined carbohydrates, highly processed snacks and convenience foods as more occasional choices. Our Vegetables for diabetics, Protein foods for diabetics, Legumes and pulses for diabetics and Dairy for diabetics guides explain how these foods fit into a balanced eating pattern.
Your ideal food choices may depend on your blood sugar levels, medication, activity, weight goals and personal preferences. Fruits for diabetics, Nuts for diabetics, Seeds for diabetics, Sweeteners for diabetics, Drinks for diabetics and Snacks for diabetics can all play a role in healthy diabetes management when you consider portion size, carbohydrate content and the balance of your overall diet.
Rather than trying to find one perfect diabetes diet, aim for food choices that are nutritious, enjoyable and sustainable for the long term. For a complete overview, explore What can a diabetic eat?, Diabetic food guide, Best diabetic diet and Diet guidance for diabetics, which bring together all of the site’s guidance to help you make confident everyday food choices.