Summer means lots of delicious fruit. But if you have diabetes, you may be wondering how (and even if) which of these healthy seasonal treats are okay for you to enjoy.
According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA) fruits are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber and should be a part of a diabetic diet — just keep track of them as you do all your carbs. The key is to keep an eye on portion sizes and stay away from fruits canned in syrups or other types of added sugar. If you are using the glycemic index (GI) to manage your diabetes, most fruits are a good choice because they are low GI.
Satisfy your sweet tooth and keep your blood sugar in check with the following tasty choices:
Berries
Whether you love blueberries, strawberries, or any other type of berries, you have the go-ahead to indulge. According to the ADA, berries are a diabetes superfood because they’re packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber and are low-carb. Three-quarters of a cup of fresh blueberries have 62 calories and 16 grams of carbohydrates. If you can resist the urge to just pop them in your mouth, try berries in a parfait, alternating layers of fruit with plain non-fat yogurt — it makes a great dessert or breakfast.
Cherries
Cherries are a low-carb, low GI choice and can safely be included in your diabetic diet. Twelve sweet cherries have 59 calories and 14 grams of carbohydrates. Cherries, especially tart ones, are packed with antioxidants, which may fight heart disease, cancer, and other diseases. Cherries can be purchased fresh, canned, frozen, or dried. But since many canned and dried fruits contain added sugar, be sure to check the labels.
Peaches
Fragrant, juicy peaches are a warm-weather treat and can be included in your low-carb diabetic diet. Peaches contain vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber. Peaches are delicious on their own or tossed into iced tea for a fruity twist. When you want a snack, whip up a quick…
smoothie by pureeing peach slices with low-fat buttermilk, crushed ice, and a touch of cinnamon or ginger.
Apricots
Sweet, low-carb apricots are a summer fruit staple and a wonderful addition to your diabetes meal plan. One apricot has just 17 calories and 4 grams of carbohydrates. Four fresh apricots equal one serving and provide more than 70 percent of your daily vitamin A requirement. These fruity jewels are also a good source of fiber. Try mixing some diced apricots into hot or cold cereal or toss some in a salad.
Apples
Give an apple to the teacher, especially if she has diabetes. And toss one in your purse or tote bag if you’re on the go — a small apple is a great fruit choice, with just 54 calories and 14 carb grams. Apples are also loaded with fiber and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Don’t peel your apples, though — the skins are full of antioxidants.
Oranges
Eat one orange and you’ve gotten all the vitamin C you need in a day. This low-carb, low GI choice comes in at only 15 grams of carbohydrates and 62 calories. Oranges also contain folate and potassium, which can help normalize blood pressure. And while you’re enjoying this juicy treat, don’t forget that other citrus fruits, like grapefruit, are also great choices.
Pears
Pears are a low-carb fruit and a wise addition to your diabetes meal plan. They are a good source of potassium and fiber. Unlike most fruit, they actually improve in texture and flavor after they’re picked. Store pears at room temperature until they’re ripe and perfect for eating (they can then be stored in the refrigerator). Here’s a taste treat: Slice up a pear and toss it into your next spinach salad.
Kiwi
If you’ve never tried a low-carb kiwi, you might not know that its brown fuzzy peel hides a zesty bright green fruit. Delicious kiwi is a good source of potassium, fiber, and vitamin C. One large kiwi has about 56 calories and 13 grams of carbohydrates, so it’s a smart addition to your diabetic diet. Kiwis are available year-round and will last in the refrigerator for up to three weeks.
By subscribing, you consent to receive emails from BlackDoctor.com. You may unsubscribe at any time. Privacy Policy & Terms of Service.
