Diabetes risk – both type 2 and type 1 – is increased by drinking beverages high in sugar.
Those who drank sugar-sweetened drinks had a whopping 99 per cent increased risk of developing the condition.
This not only covered artificially sweetened beverages, but included naturally sweet drinks, such as fruit juice.
However, making the right choices could drastically reduce the risk of developing the condition, or help those who already have diabetes to better manage it.
A study has shown sticking to water could lead to better blood sugar control and insulin response.
One 24-week study showed overweight adults who replaced diet sodas with water alongside a weight loss programme enjoyed a decrease in insulin resistance.
They also were found to have lower fasting blood sugar and insulin levels.
Drinking water is not the only way to decrease the risk of developing diabetes.
Adding avocado to your diet can also help to regulate blood sugar.
“If you have type 2 diabetes, adding avocado to your diet may help you lose weight, lower cholesterol, and increase insulin sensitivity,” said medical website Healthline.
“Avocados are low in carbohydrates, which means they have little effect on blood sugar levels.
“Part of what makes avocados a good choice for people with diabetes is that, although they are low in carbs, they are high in fibre. Many other high-fibre foods may still spike blood sugar levels.”
There are also snacks sufferers can enjoy that will help them to control blood sugar levels.
Diabetes UK says it usually isn’t necessary to eat snacks between meals if you aren’t taking any medication for your diabetes type 2.
But if you treat your diabetes with certain medication that put you at risk of hypos (low blood glucose), you may need to snack.
If you do get peckish between meals, the charity says the healthiest snack choices are a piece of fruit, rice cakes or fat free yoghurt.
