Diabetes has become one of the most common metabolic diseases in today’s society, mainly characterized by blood sugar levels higher than normal in the human body. Besides having a family history of the disease triggered by genetic factors, diabetes can also result from unhealthy lifestyle habits. Such habits include overeating, excessive nutrition intake, lack of exercise, among others. Over time, insufficient insulin secretion or insulin resistance in the body can lead to high blood sugar levels, potentially causing diabetes.
For diabetes patients to control blood sugar, controlling diet is not only about injecting insulin or taking medication but also a common method. Dietary control for diabetes treatment is not just about restricting food but also about managing calorie intake. It is known that fruits contain a lot of nutrients. Many diabetes patients, however, tend to avoid sweets after being diagnosed, fearing fruits. But as long as they choose wisely, opt for fruits with low sugar content, and consume them in moderation, it can be very beneficial for controlling blood sugar.
Pomegranate is a suitable fruit for diabetes patients as it contains chromium elements, amino acids, and other components that assist in lowering blood sugar, blood lipids, and cholesterol levels to some extent, providing several benefits for diabetes patients. Drinking water with pomegranate peel is also a good method for lowering blood sugar.
Eating grapefruit regularly can help in reducing internal heat and stabilizing blood sugar for individuals with high blood sugar levels. Grapefruit aids digestion and contains many insulin components with low sugar content, which can help reduce blood sugar levels and protect cardiovascular health.
Pears have high water content, a slightly sweet taste with some sourness, moderate energy levels, belong to low glycemic foods, and do not cause a spike in blood sugar. Eating pears regularly also has the additional benefits of clearing heat, relieving coughs, and having antiseptic effects. Diabetes patients can consume half a medium-sized pear each time.
Just as there are fruits suitable for consumption, there are also fruits that should be avoided. For example, pineapple has a significant impact on blood sugar, making it unsuitable for diabetes patients. Persimmons, with their sweet taste and rich beta-carotene content, are high-energy fruits not recommended for diabetes patients. Watermelons, fresh dates, and many other high-sugar fruits should be consumed minimally or avoided by diabetes patients and individuals with high blood sugar levels.
Excessive fruit consumption is not advisable as many fruits contain pectin, which hinders glucose absorption. People with high blood sugar should be cautious and consume fewer fruits until blood sugar levels are controlled.
Choose fruits with low sugar content as fruits are rich in nutrients but also contain varying amounts of sugar, which affect blood sugar levels differently. Therefore, people looking to control blood sugar must selectively consume fruits based on their sugar content to avoid the risk of blood sugar spikes.
Pay attention to the timing of fruit consumption. It is generally recommended for individuals with high blood sugar to consume fruits between meals.
In conclusion, diabetes patients do not need to completely avoid certain foods to control blood sugar levels; they only need to focus on consuming fewer high-sugar and high-fat foods, opt for a balanced diet, eat smaller meals more often, and maintain a light diet. They can consume low-sugar fruits such as pears, pomegranates, avocados, grapefruits, etc., in moderation, keeping the daily intake to around 300 grams. Apart from maintaining a healthy diet, establishing regular routines, and adopting good lifestyle habits are essential. Additionally, regular exercise should not be neglected. Physical activity promotes blood circulation, accelerates metabolism, and is one of the effective methods for reducing the risk of high blood sugar.
