Diabetes and potatoes Pin it to Pinterest A diabetic can have potatoes in moderation. As part of a balanced diet, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) encourages consuming starchy vegetables such as potatoes. Starch is a complex carbohydrate that takes longer for the body to digest than simple sugars. Therefore, eating more foods with starch as their main ingredient will help control your blood sugar levels after you eat. Potatoes contain high amounts of starch which will increase your blood sugar level after you eat. This could cause problems with your blood glucose (sugar) regulation if you have diabetes. Eating too many carbohydrates in general may also lead to weight gain and other health issues associated with obesity-such as heart disease and high cholesterol. If you have diabetes, do not eat potatoes as your only source of starch. Instead, include other low-starch vegetables such as corn, peas, or carrots in your diet. These foods will provide other nutrients in addition to starch, so you will not get bored with just eating potatoes day in and day out. Eat potatoes as part of a healthy diet. If you have diabetes, avoid eating too many carbohydrates as this can cause spikes in your blood sugar level which could lead to energy lows and increased risk of developing other health issues.