Diabetes mellitus, a chronic metabolic disorder characterised by elevated blood sugar levels, demands precise management, particularly in dietary choices. What to eat, how to eat, and when to eat all play crucial roles in managing this condition effectively.
Dietary management of diabetes emphasises the consumption of complex carbohydrates, proteins, and fibre-rich foods, while steering clear of simple carbohydrates, sugary drinks, and processed foods. Among the food groups to consider, nuts and dry fruits often come into question.
Nuts are renowned for providing essential vitamins and minerals, making them a valuable addition to a diabetic diet. However, the inclusion of dry fruits, despite their healthful reputation, poses a dilemma.
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Talking to the editorial team of Onlymyhealth, Ms Simrat Bhui, Dietician reveals if or not a person with diabetes should avoid dry fruits and here is what she shared with us.
"As the name suggests, dry fruits are dehydrated, concentrating their natural sugars. Consequently, dry fruits can contain anywhere from 30% to 60% sugar by weight. Even in moderation, consumption of dry fruits can lead to significant spikes in blood sugar levels, posing challenges for individuals actively managing their diabetes," Ms Bhui said.
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For those closely monitoring their blood sugar levels, it may be prudent to limit or altogether avoid dry fruits in their diet. While they offer some nutritional benefits, the concentrated sugars they contain can undermine efforts to regulate blood glucose levels effectively.
Instead, individuals with diabetes should focus on incorporating nuts and other low-sugar, nutrient-dense foods into their diets. This approach allows for better control over blood sugar levels while still reaping the health benefits associated with consuming nuts and similar alternatives.
Bottomline
While nuts remain a valuable component of a diabetic diet, the high sugar content of dry fruits warrants caution. By making informed dietary choices and prioritising foods that promote stable blood sugar levels, individuals with diabetes can better manage their condition and support overall health and well-being.