
Kulcha, a mildly leavened flatbread variety, is an invention of…
Nimisha Gupta is a content writer at Fitelo, a health and wellness platform.
I am a double distinction holder (Anatomy and Surgery) in BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery).
Living with diabetes can be challenging, especially when making dietary choices. One common concern for individuals with diabetes is the consumption of fruits due to their natural sugar content. But fear not! There are plenty of delicious and nutritious sugar free fruits for diabetics that can be enjoyed without worrying about spiking blood sugar levels.
This blog post will explore the best fruit choices for diabetics, their benefits, and tips to incorporate them into your daily routine easily. So, let’s begin and discover a world of flavor-packed goodness that won’t jeopardize your health!
When managing diabetes, keeping track of your sugar intake is crucial. But does that mean you have to give up on fruits altogether? Not necessarily! While certain fruits may contain natural sugars, there are still plenty of options that those with diabetes can enjoy.
So, what makes a fruit “sugar-free”? It’s all about the glycemic index (GI), which measures how quickly carbohydrates in food raise blood sugar levels. The lower the GI value, the slower the rise in blood glucose levels. For diabetics, choosing fruits for diabetic patients with a low GI is vital to avoid sudden spikes in blood sugar.
The sugar content in fruit depends on the type of fruit and its ripeness. Some fruits have higher glycemic indexes (GI) than others, raising blood glucose levels more quickly. However, this does not mean that diabetic people should avoid all fruits!
By choosing “sugar-free” fruits, individuals with diabetes can still enjoy the health benefits of fruit consumption while keeping their blood sugar within target ranges. But what are these sugar-free fruits that are safe to consume? Read on, and you will know!
Glycemic Index (GI) estimates how quickly carbohydrates in a food raise blood sugar levels. For individuals with diabetes, understanding the GI of fruits can help manage blood sugar levels effectively. So, to know which fruit is sugar free, let’s understand the ranges of glycemic index for various fruits:
Low Glycemic Index (GI < 55): Fruits with a low GI release sugar into the bloodstream gradually, providing a slower and more stable rise in blood sugar levels. Examples include cherries, grapefruit, apples, pears, and strawberries.
Medium Glycemic Index (GI 56-69): Fruits with a medium GI may cause a moderate increase in blood sugar levels. Modifying portion sizes and pairing them with protein or healthy fats can help manage their impact. Examples include bananas, mangoes, grapes, and oranges.
High Glycemic Index (GI ≥ 70): Fruits with a high GI may cause a rapid increase in glucose levels. Thus they should be consumed in limited quantities or paired with foods that slow digestion. Examples include watermelon, pineapple, and dates.
If you are a diabetic struggling with losing weight, a low glycemic diet plan can be an effective strategy.
Also, a fruit’s glycemic index depends upon factors such as ripeness, preparation methods, and the presence of fiber and fat. Incorporating various low to medium-GI fruits into the diet can help regulate blood sugar levels and support overall health.
When it comes to choosing fruits for diabetic patients, it’s essential to consider the glycemic index (GI) of the fruit. The GI tells us how quickly blood sugar levels elevate after consuming a particular food. Low GI foods are generally better for people with diabetes as they cause a slower and more gradual increase in blood sugar levels. For this reason, diabetic patients should include these fruits in a no-sugar diet to achieve their fitness goals.
Here are 11 fantastic fruit choices for diabetics, all with low glycemic indices:
Guava, or Amrood in India, is a tropical fruit naturally low in sugar, with just 5 g of sugar per 100 g of fruit. It also has high fiber, vitamin C, and potassium.
Nutritional Value of Guava:
Nutritional value per 100 g | Amount |
Glycemic Index | 20 (Low) |
Calories | 68 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 14.3g |
Sugar | 5g |
Fiber | 5.4g |
Fat | 0.9g |
Protein | 2.6g |
Benefits Of Guava
Our glorious Guava fruit is full of several nutrients that benefit diabetic patients. The benefits are:
Jamun, also known as Indian blackberry or black plum, is one of the best fruits for diabetes. It is low in sucrose and high in water and fiber. It also contains jambosine and jamboline, which can slow down the conversion of starch into sugar.
Nutritional Value of Jamun:
Nutritional value per 100 g | Amount |
Glycemic Index | 24 (Low) |
Calories | 60 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 15g |
Sugar | 0g |
Fiber | 0.6g |
Fat | 0.2g |
Protein | 0.7g |
Benefits Of Jamun
Yummy and juicy Jamun fruit is no behind any fruit that benefits diabetics. Check out its benefits below:
Plum is another low-glycemic fruit that people with diabetes can enjoy. It has a sweet and sour taste and a juicy texture. It is high in antioxidants, vitamin C, and potassium.
Nutritional Value of Plum:
Nutritional value per 100 g | Amount |
Glycemic Index | 24 (Low) |
Calories | 46 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 11.4g |
Sugar | 9.9g |
Fiber | 1.4g |
Fat | 0.3g |
Protein | 0.7g |
Benefits Of Plum
Let’s find out the excellent health benefits that our purple Plum, one of a sugar free fruits for diabetics has to offer:
Kiwi is a green-fleshed fruit that is low in sugar and high in vitamin C and fiber. It has a sweet and sour taste and fuzzy skin. Kiwi is good for diabetes and can be eaten whole, peeled, and sliced.
Nutritional Value of Kiwi:
Nutritional value per 100 g | Amount |
Glycemic Index | 49 (Low) |
Calories | 61 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 14.7g |
Sugar | 8.8g |
Fiber | 3g |
Fat | 0.5g |
Protein | 1.1g |
Benefits Of Kiwi
Our supercool Kiwis possess several benefits for our health. Here they are:
Apple is a prevalent and nutritious fruit in India that people with diabetes can enjoy. It has a sweet and crunchy taste and a variety of colors and sizes. Apple is good for diabetes as it is rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
Nutritional Value of Apple:
Nutritional value per 100 g | Amount |
Glycemic Index | 36 (Low) |
Calories | 52 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 13.8g |
Sugar | 10.4g |
Fiber | 2.4g |
Fat | 0.2g |
Protein | 0.3g |
Benefits Of Apple
Amazing Apple, one of a sugar free fruits for diabetics, too has incredible health benefits to offer us; here they are:
Orange is a citrus fruit that is low in sugar and high in vitamin C and fiber. It has a juicy and tangy taste and a bright orange color. Not only for diabetes, but Orange is good for weight loss. You can enjoy this fruit as whole or peeled and segmented.
Nutritional Value of Orange:
Nutritional value per 100 g | Amount |
Glycemic Index | 40 (Low) |
Calories | 47 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 11.8g |
Sugar | 9.4g |
Fiber | 2.4g |
Fat | 0.1g |
Protein | 0.9g |
Benefits Of Orange
Outstanding Orange as a sugar free fruits for diabetics is a warehouse of vitamins and gives us the following benefits:
Cherry is a small, round fruit with a sweet, sour taste and dark red color. Diabetic patients can consume it fresh, dried, or used in pies, jams, and juices. It is high in antioxidants, vitamin C, and potassium.
Nutritional Value of Cherry:
Nutritional value per 100 g | Amount |
Glycemic Index | 22 (Low) |
Calories | 63 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 16g |
Sugar | 12.8g |
Fiber | 2.1g |
Fat | 0.2g |
Protein | 1.1g |
Benefits Of Cherry
The cheerful Cherry fruit is small in size but the powerhouse of health benefits for diabetic patients:
Avocado is one of the best sugar-free fruits for diabetes you can consume. This low-sugar and low-fat food can be consumed in any form. Avocado has many vitamins like E, A, K, and B6.
Nutritional Value of Avocado:
Nutritional value per 100 g | Amount |
Glycemic Index | 10 (Low) |
Calories | 160 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 8.5g |
Sugar | 0.7g |
Fiber | 6.7g |
Fat | 14.7g |
Protein | 2g |
Benefits of Avocado
Adorable Avocado benefits us in many ways as it has a super low glycemic index and is full of nutrients. Check out its benefits:
Raspberries are a type of berry containing just over 5 grams, slightly more than a teaspoon, of sugar per cup. They are also rich in dietary fiber, which promotes satiety and helps keep you full. Including raspberries in your diet can be a satisfying and low-sugar option. It also has phytochemicals that can lower inflammation and oxidative stress.
Nutritional Value of Raspberry:
Nutritional value per 100 g | Amount |
Glycemic Index | 25 (Low) |
Calories | 53 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 11.9g |
Sugar | 4.4g |
Fiber | 6.5g |
Fat | 0.7g |
Protein | 1.2g |
Benefits of Raspberry
Radiant Raspberry fruit is juicy, tasty, and super good for diabetes. Let’s explore its benefits:
Strawberry is another surprisingly low-sugar berries for weight loss and diabetes, with only about 7 g of sugar per cup and more than 100% of the recommended daily vitamin C intake. It also has anthocyanins that can improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood pressure.
Nutritional Value of Strawberry:
Nutritional value per 100 g | Amount |
Glycemic Index | 40 (Low) |
Calories | 33 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 7.7g |
Sugar | 4.9g |
Fiber | 2g |
Fat | 0.3g |
Protein | 0.7g |
Benefits Of Strawberry
Our sweet Strawberry is an amazing fruit perfect for those dealing with diabetes. Let’s find out its benefits:
Pear is a pear-shaped fruit with a sweet, crisp taste and a green-yellow color. Diabetic patients can consume it fresh or canned or used in salads, pies, and juices. It is rich in vitamin C, fiber, and potassium.
Nutritional Value of Pear:
Nutritional value per 100 g | Amount |
Glycemic Index | 38 (Low) |
Calories | 57 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 15.2g |
Sugar | 9.8g |
Fiber | 3.1g |
Fat | 0.1g |
Protein | 0.4g |
Benefits Of Pear
Pear is not just a delicious fruit but possesses several benefits for overall health and diabetes as well. Let’s see how it helps us:
So, with this, we are done with the list of fruits for diabetics to eat! By incorporating these sugar-free fruits into your diet as part of a balanced meal plan recommended by your healthcare provider or nutritionist/dietitian, you can enjoy their natural sweetness without causing drastic changes in your blood sugar levels.
While these “sugar-free” options offer numerous benefits for diabetic individuals due to their low glycemic index values- they must still be consumed sensibly within an individual’s own dietary requirements and blood sugar management plan.
Fruits are generally considered a healthy addition to any diet, but for individuals with diabetes, it’s important to be mindful of their sugar content. While many fruits offer essential vitamins and nutrients, some should be avoided or consumed in moderation due to their high glycemic index (GI) values.
1. Watermelon: One fruit that people with diabetes should avoid is watermelon. Although refreshing and delicious, watermelon has a high GI value and can cause a spike in blood sugar levels.
2. Grapes: Grapes have a higher sugar content and glycemic index, which can cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels.
3. Banana: Another fruit to watch out for is bananas. While they are an excellent source of potassium and fiber, bananas have higher sugar content than other fruits like berries or apples. People with diabetes should consume them sparingly. Also, read our blog on which sugar is good for health and which to avoid for better management of diabetes.
4. Pineapple: Pineapple contains natural sugars and has a higher glycemic index. Enjoy pineapple in small portions and pair it with protein or fiber-rich foods to minimize the impact on blood sugar levels.
5. Mango: Mangoes may be tempting during the summer, but individuals with diabetes should moderately enjoy them due to their high sugar content. Grapes also fall into the same category – although tasty and convenient as a snack, they can raise blood sugar levels quickly.
6. Dried Fruits: Dried fruits like raisins, dried apricots, and dates may seem healthy, but they are concentrated in sugar and can quickly raise blood sugar levels. It’s best to consume them sparingly.
Remember that while these fruits may not be suitable for regular consumption by diabetics due to their impact on blood sugar levels, occasional indulgence within portion control is still possible!
If you find it challenging to incorporate fruits into your daily routine, then don’t worry! We are sharing some fantastic tips with you to help you do that. Check here:
Swap your regular cereal or toast for a bowl of fresh berries or sliced apples. You can also blend fruits into a delicious smoothie or add them to yogurt for a nutritious and filling morning meal.
Instead of reaching for sugary treats when hunger strikes, keep sugar-free fruits like grapes, oranges, or strawberries handy. Slice them up and pack them in small containers that you can easily grab on the go.
Add slices of avocado, cucumber, and tomatoes to greens like spinach or kale, then top it off with some citrus segments such as grapefruit or mandarin oranges. It will give your salad an extra burst of flavor while keeping it sugar-free.
Love dessert but want to avoid added sugars? Try making a fruit-based treat instead! Bake apples stuffed with cinnamon and nuts, grill pineapple slices for a caramelized finish, or whip up a refreshing watermelon sorbet.
Stay hydrated by infusing plain water with the natural flavors of fruits like lemon, lime, cucumber, or berries. Not only does this make drinking water more enjoyable, but it also helps curb cravings for sugary beverages. You can check out our infused water recipe to learn how to make and enjoy it!
Blend your favorite sugar-free fruits like kiwi or blueberries with unsweetened yogurt and freeze them into popsicle molds overnight. These homemade treats are perfect for hot summer days!
Jazz up dinner by adding a variety of sugar-free fruits such as pears, apples, and nectarines to your favorite stir fry or pasta dish. It will give your meals an extra nutritional boost and unique flavor!
Remember that moderation is key when incorporating sugar-free fruits into your daily routine, as they still contain carbohydrates which can affect blood sugar levels if consumed in excess quantities.
By following these tips, you can enjoy sugar-free fruits’ deliciousness and health benefits while managing diabetes effectively!
Incorporating sugar-free fruits into the diet can be a wise and delicious choice for individuals with diabetes. These fruits provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber without causing blood sugar spikes. By choosing low glycemic index fruits such as berries, cherries, apples, and citrus fruits, diabetic people can enjoy fruit’s natural sweetness while maintaining stable blood sugar levels.
However, portion control and monitoring blood glucose levels are crucial for managing diabetes effectively. Consulting with your doctor or our Fitelo experts can help create an individualized meal plan that includes the right amount of sugar-free fruits for each person’s needs.
Remember: eating well doesn’t mean sacrificing taste – especially regarding these best sugar-free fruits for diabetics!
Davinder, a 34-year-old mother from the UK, approached Fitelo for an online nutritionist consultation to address her concern about weight gain. With a focus on healthy, home-based meals tailored to her preferences by our experts, Davinder aimed to lose 5 kilograms. However, her remarkable patience and positive attitude led to an impressive weight loss of 11 kilograms. Read her transformation story below:
Fun Fact
Guava is the best weight-loss fruit!
Guavas are among the best Snacks for Weight-loss, with just 37 calories per fruit and 12% of your recommended daily fiber intake. Unlike some other low-calorie processed snacks, they are natural & packed with vitamins and minerals. A small guava can have just 30-60 Kcals with a very high amount of fiber and minerals, making it a perfect snack for your hunger pangs.
People say they cannot live without sugar. Yes, sugar is addictive for us. But do you know how sugar impacts our bodies? In this video, Dietician Mac Singh shares an interesting study on how sugar is as addictive as a drug. He also explains why refined sugar is so harmful to the body. Want to know the complete truth? Watch the video here:
While low-sugar fruits are generally safe for people with diabetes, individual responses may vary. It’s essential to consider factors such as glycemic index, portion sizes, and overall carbohydrate intake. Monitoring blood sugar levels and consulting with a healthcare professional or dietitian can help determine the most suitable fruits for your specific needs and ensure optimal diabetes management.
People with diabetes can eat bananas, but portion control is essential due to their higher carbohydrate content. Bananas have a medium glycemic index, which can raise blood sugar levels more quickly than low-GI fruits. It’s advisable to enjoy smaller portions of ripe bananas and pair them with protein or fiber-rich foods to help mitigate the impact on blood sugar levels.
Two fruits that individuals with diabetes may need to avoid or consume in limited quantities are grapes and watermelon. Grapes have a higher sugar content and can cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels. Watermelon, despite being hydrating, has a higher glycemic index and sugar content compared to some other fruits.
Sugar-free juice can be a better option for diabetics than regular juice, as it contains little to no added sugars. However, it’s important to note that even sugar-free juice can still raise blood sugar levels due to the natural sugars present in the fruit. Portion control and moderation are key, and it’s advisable to prioritize whole fruits over juice to benefit from the fiber content.
Contact Us Today
Get in touch with our expert team at Fitelo to kick-start your own transformative journey! Let us guide you toward your weight loss goals and help you cultivate sustainable & healthy eating habits. So, contact us today and take the first step towards a healthier, happier you with Fitelo!
Disclaimer
This blog post was written to help you make healthy and better food choices. So, be aware and take care. The vital thing to consider is your own health before starting a restrictive diet. Therefore, always seek advice from a doctor/dietitian before starting if you have any concerns.
Eat Healthy, Live Healthy. Enjoy a long, happy life.
Kulcha, a mildly leavened flatbread variety, is an invention of…