Top 15 Foods to Steer Clear of While Taking Jardiance

Jardiance is a prescription medication used to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes. It is also prescribed to reduce the risk of cardiovascular death in adults with type 2 diabetes who have known cardiovascular disease. Jardiance is the brand name for the drug empagliflozin.

How Jardiance Works

Jardiance belongs to a class of drugs called sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors. It works by helping the kidneys remove glucose from the bloodstream through the urine. This process helps lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

Here’s a more detailed look at its function:

• Location: SGLT2 is located in the early proximal tubule of the kidney.
• Role: It reabsorbs 80-90% of the glucose filtered by the kidney’s glomerulus.
• Inhibition: SGLT2 inhibitors are a class of medications that prevent this reabsorption, leading to more glucose being excreted in the urine.

These inhibitors, also known as gliflozins, are used to treat type 2 diabetes by lowering blood glucose levels. They are known to be effective at reducing hemoglobin A1c levels, aiding in weight loss, and lowering blood pressure. Additionally, they carry a low risk of hypoglycemia since they act independently of insulin.

Benefits of Jardiance

• Lowers Blood Sugar: Helps to control blood glucose levels.
• Cardiovascular Benefits: Reduces the risk of cardiovascular death in adults with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease.
• Weight Loss: It may contribute to modest weight loss due to the excretion of glucose.
• Blood Pressure: It can help lower blood pressure.

Common Side Effects

• Urinary tract infections
• Increased urination
• Thirst
• Vaginal yeast infections
• Low blood sugar (when taken with other diabetes medications)

Precautions and Considerations

• Kidney Function: Not recommended for patients with severe kidney impairment.
• Ketoacidosis: In rare cases, it can cause a serious condition called ketoacidosis, even with normal blood sugar levels.
• Dehydration: It can increase the risk of dehydration and low blood pressure.
• Genital Infections: Increased risk of genital infections.

Dosage

Jardiance is usually taken once daily in the morning, with or without food. The exact dosage and treatment plan should be determined by a healthcare provider based on the patient’s medical condition and response to treatment.

15 foods to avoid while taking Jardiance

When taking Jardiance (empagliflozin), it’s important to maintain a balanced diet and be mindful of foods that could potentially interfere with its effectiveness or exacerbate side effects. While there are no specific foods that must be completely avoided, certain foods and drinks should be consumed with caution. Here are 15 types of foods and drinks to be mindful of:

1. Sugary Foods and Drinks: These can raise blood sugar levels quickly.
   • Sodas
   • Candy
   • Desserts like cakes and cookies
2. High-Carbohydrate Foods: Excessive carbs can spike blood sugar levels.
   • White bread
   • Pasta
   • Rice
3. Processed Foods: Often high in hidden sugars and unhealthy fats.
   • Packaged snacks
   • Fast food
   • Processed meats
4. Alcohol: Can lower blood sugar to dangerous levels, especially when consumed in excess.
   • Beer
   • Wine
   • Spirits
5. High-Fat Foods: It can lead to weight gain and negatively affect heart health.
   • Fried foods
   • Fatty cuts of meat
   • Full-fat dairy products
6. Fruit Juices: Often contain high amounts of sugar and lack the fiber found in whole fruits.
   • Orange juice
   • Apple juice
   • Grape juice
7. High-Sodium Foods : Can increase blood pressure, which is already a concern for many with diabetes.
   • Canned soups
   • Salty snacks
   • Processed cheeses
8. Trans Fats: Increase the risk of heart disease and insulin resistance.
   • Margarine
   • Commercially baked goods
   • Snack foods
9. High-Glycemic Index Foods: Cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels.
   • Potatoes
   • White rice
   • Cornflakes
10. Sweetened Breakfast Cereals: Often contain high levels of sugar.
    • Frosted cereals
    • Granola with added sugars
    • Instant oatmeal with flavors
11. Sweetened Dairy Products: Contain hidden sugars.
    • Flavored yogurt
    • Sweetened milk drinks
    • Ice cream
12. High-Calorie Foods: Can lead to weight gain and complicate blood sugar control.
    • Pastries
    • Chips
    • Pizza
13. Caffeine: In excess, it can cause dehydration and affect blood sugar levels.
    • Coffee
    • Energy drinks
    • High-caffeine teas
14. Artificial Sweeteners: Can lead to increased cravings for sweet foods.
    • Diet sodas
    • Sugar-free candies
    • Artificially sweetened baked goods
15. Foods with Added Sugars: Even seemingly healthy foods can contain added sugars.
    • Salad dressings
    • Sauces like ketchup and barbecue sauce
    • Flavored nuts

Tips for a Balanced Diet on Jardiance:

• Focus on Whole Foods: Prioritize vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats.
• Monitor Blood Sugar: Keep track of how different foods affect your blood sugar levels.
• Stay Hydrated: Jardiance can increase urination, so drink plenty of water.
• Consult a Dietitian: A healthcare professional can provide personalized dietary advice.

Maintaining a healthy and balanced diet can help maximize the benefits of Jardiance while minimizing potential side effects. Always consult with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian for specific dietary recommendations tailored to your individual needs.

FAQs:

Frequently Asked Questions about Jardiance