Fruits for Diabetics

Diabetes is a disease, characterized by the production of inadequate amounts of insulin hormone, which further results in affecting the body's ability to turn starch, essential nutrients, and sugar into usable form of energy. Along with obesity, diabetes is also gaining pace and becoming an international health problem, which is not confined to any specific race, age group, or gender.

By far, the best treatment for the condition is following a balanced diet, which is neither deprived of any essential nutrients, nor consists of anything in excess. One of the basic components of the diet is consuming foods which are less in sugar, cholesterol, and fat content. Doctors, accordingly prescribe the diet for diabetic people.

It is a well-known fact that our body needs all the essential nutrients in sufficient amounts. This is true in the case of diabetic diets too. Therefore, people affected with the condition are given foods which will supply all those nutrients. Fruits constitute an important part of their diet. Let us see which ones are beneficial for them.

• Provide essential nutrients needed for proper growth, and functioning of the body.
• Strengthen the immune system, thereby protecting from various illnesses.

• Improve the digestion and metabolic process.
• Help in proper functioning of the brain, and also safeguard from many diseases associated with the same.
• Relieve from various day-to-day, minor health disorders.

It is a common belief that fruits are not good for diabetics. However, it is not entirely true. Yes, some of them which are rich in sugar and fat content, do pose harm to diabetic people.

But, those which are excellent sources of vitamins, minerals, and proteins; and are less in sugar content are perfectly alright. Fruits with high fiber content should also be consumed in limited quantities. Following are some fruits which can be safely consumed.

• Muskmelon
• Strawberries
• Plums
• Watermelon
• Papaya
• Apple
• Rose apple
• Grapefruit
• Blueberries
• Pomegranates
• Apricots
• Pears

• Kiwifruit
• Olives
• Lime
• Cherries
• Avocado

There are a few fruits, which need to be strictly avoided. This is because, they contain high amounts of sugar and fat in them. Some of the fruits, that need to be avoided by diabetics are banana, mango, grapes, custard apple, and peach.

The sugar and the glycemic index of these fruits is quite high, and it is therefore better to stay away from them. Another important thing in this issue is that of avoiding fruit juices. They do not contain enough fibers in them, and therefore prove useless.

Consuming fruit without its essential nutrients makes no sense. If juices are to be consumed, they should be without any artificial added sweetening substances in them. Moreover, canned fruits should be avoided.

In short, the only thing with regards to fruits for diabetics is that of the quantities of sugar and fat content. These are the only factors, the patients must take care of.