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Manage Blood Sugar Naturally With List Of Dry Fruits For Diabetics To Eat!

Nimisha Gupta

Nimisha Gupta
Jul 2023

2 min read
List Of Dry Fruits For Diabetics To Eat

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Living with diabetes can be challenging, especially when maintaining a healthy diet. While many foods may seem off-limits, plenty of options can provide essential nutrients without causing blood sugar spikes. In this blog post, we will explore the best list of dry fruits for diabetics to eat and some delicious ways to incorporate them into your meals and snacks!

Dry fruits are a perfect example of such food items. Not only do they satisfy your sweet tooth cravings, but they also offer numerous health benefits for those with diabetes. So, without much ado, let’s get started!

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List Of Dry Fruits For Diabetics To Eat: What Are Dry Fruits?

Dry fruits are a type of fruit that has been dried to remove the water content. This process makes them more concentrated in nutrients and calories than their fresh counterparts, making them an excellent energy source. One advantage of dry fruits is that they have a longer shelf life than fresh fruit since they don’t contain moisture. They also tend to be portable, so you can easily carry them for snacking.

A dry fruits list for diabetics includes raisins, dates, apricots, figs, prunes, and cranberries. These dry fruits for weight loss can be eaten alone as a snack or used in recipes to add flavor and texture. Some of the best dry fruits for regulating blood sugar levels include almonds, walnuts, pistachios, and cashews.

These nuts are all rich in magnesium, which helps improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels. Other good options include dates, figs, apricots, and prunes.

If you have diabetes, it’s important to talk to your doctor before changing your diet. They can help you create the right plan and ensure you get all the necessary nutrients.

Benefits Of List Of Dry Fruits For Diabetics

Incorporating a variety of dry fruits into your diet is an easy way to boost your nutrient intake while keeping blood sugar levels stable. However, the benefits of having dry fruits for diabetics work well when you take them in moderation due to their calorie content. Dry fruits for diabetes are the best option to include in a Type 2 diabetes diet plan. Check out its benefits:

1. Nutrient Density

Dry fruits are rich in essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. These nutrients support overall health and can help manage blood sugar levels.

2. Low Glycemic Index In List Of Dry Fruits For Diabetics

Many dry fruits have a low glycemic index (GI), meaning they have a minimal impact on blood sugar levels. Certain dry fruits cause less of a spike in blood sugar levels than other high-carbohydrate foods. Eating dry fruits can also help prevent insulin resistance by improving insulin sensitivity. It helps prevent a sudden rise in blood glucose and supports better glycemic control.

3. Fiber Content

Dry fruits are fiber-rich foods. Fiber aids in slowing down the absorption of sugar in the bloodstream, promoting more stable blood sugar levels and improved insulin sensitivity. Additionally, they are lower in cholesterol and maintain a healthy digestive system. They also offer an excellent source of plant-based protein, which can aid in muscle growth and repair.

4. Antioxidant Power

Dry fruits are rich in antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation. It mainly benefits diabetic patients at a higher risk of oxidative damage and related complications.

5. Healthy Fats for diabetics

Certain dry fruits, like almonds and walnuts, contain healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These fats can help improve insulin sensitivity, support heart health, and provide a feeling of satiety. Many nuts and dry fruits are rich in omega-3 and Omega- 6, contributing to a healthier heart and digestive system. 

6. Satiety and Weight Management

Dry fruits are nutrient-dense and can feel full, which may help control appetite and prevent overeating. Managing weight is vital for diabetic patients as it can improve blood sugar control. Pairing dry fruits with other low-calorie and nutrient-dense foods and maintaining an overall calorie-deficit diet plan are crucial for weight loss.

7. Portability and Convenience

Dry fruits are portable, non-perishable snacks; hence, you can quickly induce them into a diabetic meal plan. They make for a convenient, on-the-go option to help manage hunger and cravings.

Portion control and incorporating them into a well-balanced diabetic meal plan is vital. Also, always consult a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized advice on incorporating dry fruits into a diabetic diet.

List Of Best Sugar-Friendly Dry Fruits

Dry fruits are a great addition to any diabetic diet. They provide essential nutrients while helping to regulate blood sugar levels. However, not all dry fruits are equal regarding their effect on blood sugar. But what types of dry fruits are good for diabetics? So, here is a list of dry fruits for diabetics to eat to manage their blood sugar while having a delicious snack efficiently:

1. Almonds

Almonds are rich in healthy fats, fiber, protein, and Vitamin E. They have a low glycemic index and can help improve insulin sensitivity, regulate blood sugar levels, and provide a feeling of satiety. Almonds are highly recommended for individuals with diabetes, and consuming them following meals can contribute to a low cholesterol diet and lower the overall meal’s glycemic index.

2. Walnuts Dry Fruits For Diabetics

Walnuts are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids with anti-inflammatory properties. They also contain fiber and protein, helping to control blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of heart disease in diabetic individuals.

3. Pistachios

Pistachios contain fiber, protein, and healthy fats. They have a lower calorie content than other nuts and can aid in weight management, essential for diabetes control. They also have a lower glycemic load, meaning they have a minimal impact on blood sugar levels. A serving (2 Tablespoons) of Pistachios gives nearly 1.6 gm fiber and 3 gm protein.

4. Cashews Dry Fruit For Diabetics To Eat

Cashews are rich in monounsaturated fats, which can help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of heart disease. They also contain dietary fiber and are a good source of minerals like magnesium and zinc. Also, cashew benefits in preventing Type 2 diabetes as well.

5. Dried Apricots (Khumani)

Dried apricots are a good source of dietary fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins A and C. They have a lower glycemic index than other dried fruits and can be consumed in moderation as a nutritious snack. Also, they are rich in potassium and calcium plus give 2.2 gm of protein and 4.7 gm fiber.

6. Dried Figs Dry Fruits For Diabetics

Dried figs are high in dietary fiber, providing a slow release of carbohydrates and helping to regulate blood sugar levels. They also contain minerals like potassium and calcium.

7. Dried Plums (Prunes)

Prunes are rich in fiber and antioxidants. They have a low glycemic index and can help regulate blood sugar levels, promote digestion, and support heart health. A half cup of prunes provides approx. 6.2 gm of fiber content.

8. Peanuts

Peanuts, although commonly referred to as nuts, are legumes. They are rich in monounsaturated fats, protein, and fiber. Peanuts have a low glycemic index and can help regulate blood sugar levels. The fiber content aids in slowing down digestion and glucose absorption, promoting better glycemic control. However, portion control is crucial due to their calorie density, and always opt for unsalted and dry-roasted peanuts.

9. Dates

Dates are sweet and rich in natural sugars, making them higher on the glycemic index. They can cause a relatively rapid rise in blood sugar levels. However, they also provide fiber, antioxidants, and essential minerals like potassium and magnesium. As a result, consuming dates should be done in moderation and balanced with other low glycemic index foods to minimize the impact on blood sugar. Further, there are several date benefits for diabetic patients when whole, fresh dates rather than processed or sugary varieties are chosen.

10. Dried Cranberries (unsweetened)

Dried cranberries are a good source of antioxidants, vitamins, and dietary fiber. They have a lower glycemic index than other dried fruits, meaning they have a milder impact on blood sugar levels. The fiber content helps slow down digestion and can aid in better blood sugar control.

11. Dried Blueberries (unsweetened)

Dried blueberries are rich in antioxidants, including anthocyanins, potentially benefiting cardiovascular health and reducing inflammation. They provide dietary fiber as well. While they are slightly higher on the glycemic index than fresh blueberries, consuming them in moderation can still be a part of a balanced diabetic diet.

12. Dried Cherries (unsweetened)

Dried cherries are a good source of antioxidants and dietary fiber. They also contain vitamins and minerals like potassium. While they have natural sugars, their fiber content helps slow down the release of glucose into the bloodstream, minimizing blood sugar spikes. However, portion control is essential due to its natural sugar content.

When consuming dried cranberries, dried blueberries, or dried cherries, it’s crucial to check labels and ensure they are unsweetened to avoid added sugars.

While following this dry fruits list for diabetics, portion control is crucial due to their calorie content. Individual tolerance may vary, so it’s best to monitor blood sugar levels and consult a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized advice on incorporating these dry fruits into a diabetic meal plan. To gain weight, check out our diet plan for skinny guys.

Glycemic Index Of List Of Dry Fruits For Diabetics To Eat

The glycemic index (GI) measures how quickly food-related carbohydrates raise blood glucose levels. Foods with a high GI are broken down and absorbed by the body quickly, causing a rapid rise in blood sugar levels.

Regarding healthy dry fruits for diabetics to eat, some have a higher GI than others. For example, dried dates and raisins have a higher GI than dried apricots or prunes. However, this doesn’t mean people with diabetes should avoid all types of dry fruits altogether.

Foods with a low GI value are digested and absorbed more slowly, leading to a slower and steadier rise in blood sugar levels, while high GI foods can cause a more rapid increase. You can induce dry fruits while following a sugar patient diet chart to manage diabetes.

The GI scale goes from 0 to 100, and dry fruits are categorized as having high GI (70 or above), medium GI (56-69), and low GI (55 or below). So, which dry fruit is good for diabetes?

Check with its Glycemic Index here:

Dry Fruits For Diabetic To EatApproximate GIGI Range
Almonds0Low
Walnuts15Low
Pistachios20-25Low
Cashews22Low
Dried Apricots30-32Low
Dried Figs35-40Low
Dried Plums (Prunes)29-38Low
Dried Cranberries45-65Medium
Dried Blueberries53-59Medium
Peanuts14-23Low
Dates42-62Medium
Dried Cherries22-31Low

Also, eating dry fruits as part of a balanced meal can help slow the absorption rate and prevent drastic spikes in blood sugar levels. Additionally, many dry fruits such as almonds and walnuts contain healthy fats and fiber that help regulate blood sugar levels.

Therefore, before including dry fruits in your low glycemic diet plan, consider the glycemic index and its nutritional value overall. Always consult your doctor or dietician before changing your diet plan.

Tips To Incorporate A List Of Dry Fruits For Diabetics To Eat

Incorporating a list of dry fruits for diabetics to eat into your daily diet can be a great way to lead a healthy lifestyle, especially if you have diabetes. Here are some tips on how to include them in your meals:

  • Avoid dry fruits coated with sugar or honey & choose those lower in sugar.
  • Eat dry fruits and other foods to help balance the sugar content. For example, have a few dried apricots with a piece of low-fat cheese or a hard-boiled egg.
  • One easy way is to add them as toppings to your breakfast cereal or oatmeal.
  • Try mixing them with yogurt and honey for a delicious snack.
  • Blend them into smoothies or shakes. Dates, figs, and prunes work well with banana-based smoothies.
  • Make trail mixes by combining different types of nuts and seeds with dried fruit for a grab-and-go snack that you can take anywhere.
  • Adding raisins or cranberries to muffins or bread loaves can enhance their taste while making them healthier at the same time.
  • Try using dried fruits in savory dishes like curries or stews. Apricots and figs go particularly well with chicken dishes!
  • Try making energy balls using dates, almonds, and unsweetened coconut flakes. These snacks are perfect for on-the-go snacking when you need extra energy during the day.
  • Roasted mixed nuts with spices like cinnamon and cayenne pepper bring out the flavors of different nuts in one dish. This recipe offers protein-packed snack options to keep you full until your next mealtime.
  • Prepare dried fruit salad using fresh seasonal fruits like apples or pears and dried apricots, cranberries, or raisins. Check out the safe consumable fruits for diabetic patients.
  • Dip fresh or dried figs into melted dark chocolate and let harden. This healthy treat satisfies your sweet tooth while providing antioxidants and fiber.

Point To Remember

Always stick to a small portion size. A handful of dried fruit is all you need. So, by choosing wisely and practicing portion control, incorporating dry fruits into your diet can provide numerous health benefits while satisfying your sweet tooth cravings.

Also, with these simple changes to your everyday routine, you’ll start seeing the benefits of including dry fruits in your diet – better nutrition intake and improved blood sugar control!

Try These Sugar-Free Dry Fruit Delicacies For Your Sweet Tooth!

When you are suffering from diabetes, satisfying your sweet cravings is difficult. But we bring you healthy and nutritious sweet delights for your sweet tooth, and guess what? They are sugar-free! So, try them and indulge guilt-free!

List Of Dry Fruits For Diabetics To Eat – Bottomline

Adding dry fruits into your diet can provide numerous health benefits for individuals with diabetes. They are low in calories, packed with nutrients, and have a low glycemic index which helps regulate blood sugar levels. However, it is essential to consume them in moderation as they are high in natural sugars.

Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before changing your best diet plan or lifestyle. Additionally, try experimenting with different types of dry fruits and incorporating them into healthy recipes such as oatmeal or salads for added flavor and nutritional value.

Adding the correct type of dry fruits to your diet allows you to enjoy their delicious taste while managing your diabetes effectively. So go ahead and snack on some almonds or add some walnuts to your next meal – your body will thank you!

Physical Transformation Story Of Harjot – Lost 25 Kgs in 4 Months!

At 51, Harjot rocked it in Fitelo’s NRI program with our customized diet that matched her cooking passion. Our weight loss gurus at Fitelo whipped up some lip-smacking home-cooked grub just for her. And get this; they encouraged cheat meals! Can you believe it? But guess what? Harjot dropped a whopping 25 kg in just 4 months! Check out Harjot’s inspiring story here:

Fun Fact

Almond is the best weight-loss snack!

Almonds are not only tasty but also loaded with healthy fats, fiber, and protein that keep you feeling full and satisfied. Plus, they’re like mini workout buddies, helping to boost your metabolism and burn fat. So, grab a handful of almonds and let them be your companions on your weight loss journey!

Cheat Meals For Weight Loss | By Dietician Mac Singh

Nobody is actually clear about why we should cheat on our weight-loss journey. People have two schools of thought. -One school says you should not have any cheat meals. The second school suggests that cheat meals are important in our transformation journey. But what is correct? Cheat Meals are essential. Why? Find out in this video by Dietician Mac Singh:

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Dry Fruit Is Good For Diabetes?

Almonds and walnuts are suitable for diabetes due to their low carbohydrate content, high fiber, and beneficial fats, which help regulate blood sugar levels and promote overall health.

Can People With Diabetes Consume Dried Apricots?

Dried apricots can be enjoyed by diabetic people in moderation as they provide essential nutrients, including fiber and antioxidants.

Are Pistachios Suitable For Individuals With Diabetes?

Pistachios are a diabetic-friendly dry fruit option as they have a low glycemic index, are rich in fiber and healthy fats, and can contribute to improved blood sugar control and heart health when consumed in moderation.

Can Walnuts Be Included In A Diabetic Diet?

Absolutely! Walnuts are highly recommended for people with diabetes due to their low carbohydrate content, high fiber content, and beneficial fats, which help regulate blood sugar levels, promote satiety, and support overall heart health.

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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.

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