There is no specific food that causes diabetes, but certain foods can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Here are some foods that can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes:

• Heavily processed carbohydrates: Foods made with white flour, white sugar, and white rice are low in bran, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Examples include breads, muffins, cakes, crackers, and pasta. A diet high in heavily processed carbohydrates increased the risk of type 2 diabetes by 21 percent compared to those who ate a whole foods-rich diet.

• Drinks sweetened with sugar: Sodas, sweet tea, fruit drinks, and lemonade can lead to weight gain and increase the risk of getting type 2 diabetes. Having just two sugar-sweetened drinks per day can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes by as much as 26 percent.

• Saturated and trans fats: Processed meats such as hot dogs, bacon, and deli meats have higher levels of sodium and nitrites, which put you at not only higher risk of type 2 diabetes but heart disease. Red meat and processed red meat are both linked to type 2 diabetes. Solid margarines, vegetable shortening, coconut oil, and palm oil are also not the best choice.

• Refined carbs: Refined carbs like white bread, white rice, and sugary breakfast cereal can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.

To reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, it is recommended to limit the intake of these foods and choose healthier options. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and legumes but lower in red and processed meats, refined grains, and sugar-sweetened drinks can help reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.