Can Diabetics Eat Banana? Know The Facts

By Chitra Shah
07 Nov 2023, 09:00 IST

There are no proper studies that prove bananas are bad for a diabetic patient, but there are some benefits if bananas are taken in the right portion by a diabetic patient. Tap to know!

NUTRITION RICH

Potassium, Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, and fibre are important substances that can be found in bananas. They are also beneficial to overall health as well as the heart.

LOW GLYCEMIC INDEX

A banana’s GI is low, implying that these fruits do not elevate blood sugar levels like high-GI foods. The riper banana has a higher glycemic index compared to the unripened ones.

FIBRE CONTENT

Dietary fiber found in bananas may lead to slower digestion and absorption of carbs, making it possible for the body to process them easier. This can help avoid sharp postprandial peaks of blood glucose.

NATURAL SUGAR

Although bananas have sugar, they are natural sugars, or fructose, not added sugars. However, natural sugars tend to be more beneficial as a part of a meal if they are not over the limit.

PORTION SIZE

It is also important for diabetic patients to pay attention to portions. For instance, smaller bananas around six to seven inches in length have less carbohydrate and sugar content than larger ones.

TIMINGS

Bananas are usually best consumed with a meal or snack containing other food items. Bananas, when paired with a serving of protein- or fat-rich food, tend to have less impact on blood sugars.

MONITOR BLOOD SUGAR

People react differently in response to foods, such that diabetic patients ought to check their blood glucose level after eating a banana to know what happens to them. It will also aid in informed dietary selection.

CONCLUSION

Therefore, diabetes patients can still consume bananas but should note the quantity and time of consumption.