The moment you learn you are a diabetic you are instantly required to change your current lifestyle to suit your condition. There are many misconceptions related to a diabetic's diet and one of the most commonly asked question is, can diabetics eat fruit? Sugar intake instantly becomes a top priority for diabetics and because of this it can be hard to know if natural sugars are just as dangers as artificial sweeteners. There are a great deal of rules that come along with a diabetes diet, but once you get them straight you will find them to progress from rules to just a way of life. Allow us to go into further detail about this frequently asked question in particular.
The thing that makes fruits seem unhealthy for those with diabetes is the amount of natural sugars they contain. Since diabetics lack insulin they are not able to handle a high amount of carbohydrates and sugar at the same time in their system. Because of this, anyone with diabetes, no matter the age or race is highly recommended to have a glycemic index at all times. This is just an index chart that enables them to identify the amount of carbohydrates or sugars present in any given food. It is however good to note that most fruits are low on the glcermic index which is good for diabetics.
Of course diabetics are always encouraged to choose fresh fruits over processed foods and snacks; portion control is what your new focal point becomes. The natural vitamins and minerals found within natural fruits more than makes up for the natural sugar levels that can be found within it as well. It is actually the dried fruit you will want to stay away from because of the preservatives and added sweeteners added to the natural product.
You should also know that although fruits such as apples, pears, grapes, etc rate low to medium on the glcemic index chart, taking large quantities of them can cause problems. Monitoring the portion you take is a very important aspect of diabetes and another good thing about fruits is that they not only contain natural fructose but fibre as well. Diabetics may be limited on their diet making it difficult for them to get enough fibre and this is where fruits come in handy.
When you are asked, can diabetics eat fruit, the answer is simple; yes you can! We can't forget to mention the most obvious reason a diabetic may way to include fruit in their diet; it has the capability to satisfy your sugar cravings. Instead of turning towards a giant piece of chocolate cake for your evening snack you can instead get that same sugar relief through a ripe orange. It may not sound like an even trade but as a diabetic it is enough!
The thing that makes fruits seem unhealthy for those with diabetes is the amount of natural sugars they contain. Since diabetics lack insulin they are not able to handle a high amount of carbohydrates and sugar at the same time in their system. Because of this, anyone with diabetes, no matter the age or race is highly recommended to have a glycemic index at all times. This is just an index chart that enables them to identify the amount of carbohydrates or sugars present in any given food. It is however good to note that most fruits are low on the glcermic index which is good for diabetics.
Of course diabetics are always encouraged to choose fresh fruits over processed foods and snacks; portion control is what your new focal point becomes. The natural vitamins and minerals found within natural fruits more than makes up for the natural sugar levels that can be found within it as well. It is actually the dried fruit you will want to stay away from because of the preservatives and added sweeteners added to the natural product.
You should also know that although fruits such as apples, pears, grapes, etc rate low to medium on the glcemic index chart, taking large quantities of them can cause problems. Monitoring the portion you take is a very important aspect of diabetes and another good thing about fruits is that they not only contain natural fructose but fibre as well. Diabetics may be limited on their diet making it difficult for them to get enough fibre and this is where fruits come in handy.
When you are asked, can diabetics eat fruit, the answer is simple; yes you can! We can't forget to mention the most obvious reason a diabetic may way to include fruit in their diet; it has the capability to satisfy your sugar cravings. Instead of turning towards a giant piece of chocolate cake for your evening snack you can instead get that same sugar relief through a ripe orange. It may not sound like an even trade but as a diabetic it is enough!
About the Author:
Following your diabetes ABC'syou will be healthier and happier when following diabetes treatment type 1 & 2 into your day to day living.. Also published at Why fruits are good for diabetics?.