Six common foods that raise your blood sugar levels

AFFECTING 1.8 Million Australian's, diabetes is the world's fastest growing chronic disease with two people developing the disease every 10 seconds.

With National Diabetes Week around the corner (July 12-18), Good Price Pharmacy Warehouse pharmacist Carolyn Clementson, is dishing up the worst foods for your blood sugar.

Carolyn Clementon says most people think they know what foods are high in sugar, but glucose can be hiding where we least expect it.

"Everyone associated chocolate, soda and lollies with sugary danger foods when talking about diabetes, however the below foods are equally as risky and will cause a spike in your blood sugar," she said.

1. White Rice/Pasta/Bread

Food made from refined white flour are easily digestible starch and which will raise your blood sugar level, instead it's best to opt for brown versions.

Chinese Food Stalls at the Lambing Flat Chinese Festival — Chinese food can increase blood sugar levels. Holly Bradford

2. Chinese Food

Dishes that are high-calorie, high fat, high-sodium, and high-carb can spike blood sugar dramatically.

Dishes to avoid include fried entrees, orange chicken, sweet and sour dishes and anything served with a sugary sauce.

If you are craving Chinese, prepare something at home using steamed veggies and low-sodium, low-fat condiments and flavourings.

Could our little spud one day become president? — Spuds are digested into the bloodstream quickly.

3. Potatoes

They might be a vegetable but they are far from healthy, potatoes are notorious for increasing blood sugar because they're digested into the bloodstream quickly.

A healthier option is to swap potatoes for sweet potatoes.

Homemade muesli bars - Toowoomba Life recipe page Photo Contributed — Choose healthy bars to snack on, as some can contain more sugar than chocolates. Contributed

4. Energy Bars

Although energy bars can seem like a healthy snack it is important to read the label!

Energy bars are often made from refined flours and sugars and can have a higher sugar content than a Mars Bar!

Choose bars that are made with nuts, whole grains and fewer natural sweeteners.

Fresh produce is available at local markets. — Bananas are high in sugar. Mike Richards

5. Bananas and Melons

Although seen as a healthy choice, not all fruits are created equal.

Fruits such as banana, grape, pineapple, stone fruit and melons are all high in sugar.

Apples, blueberries and other berries are the better option with less sugar content.

Smoothies made by Viki at Mind Body Food. Photo Contributed — Try to make healthier smoothies with kale and spinach. Contributed

6. Fruit Juice & Smoothies

Although often marketed as healthy, these types of drinks can have just as much, if not more sugar than a soda. Make your own smoothie so you know exactly what is in it, reach for low-sugar fruits or vegetables like kale and spinach.