The adage holds true: You are what you eat. This saying holds true for your loved ones who may be looking to enjoy their golden years. With increasing age comes the increased risk of diabetes for your loved ones. Hence, it is essential for them to look for diabetic-friendly fruits and include them as part of their daily intake. While fruits may seem to be loaded with sugar and inappropriate for your loved ones, nothing is further from the truth! We highlight some diabetic-friendly fruits here, especially for your loved ones who may be suffering from diabetes.
Grapes
Grapes are one of the diabetic-friendly fruits that your loved ones can enjoy. It contains merely 16 grams of sugar for every 100 grams of grapes. This may seem high on the sugar level side but research has shown that people who consume grapes often have a lower susceptibility to type 2 diabetes by a staggering 12% over those who do not! This is because grapes contain polyphenols, which aid in blood sugar levels management. Grapes also contain another phytochemical called resveratrol. Resveratrol can balance out blood sugar levels as well and manages how the body releases insulin.
Blueberries
Blueberries are also classified as diabetic-friendly fruits. They are lower in sugar compared to grapes: at a mere level of 10 grams of sugar for every 100 grams of blueberries. Blueberries also contain at least 2 grams of fiber. This fiber explains why 10 grams of sugar does not affect blood sugar levels as much. Blueberries are not just diabetic-friendly fruits, they are also known as superfruits. They contain antioxidants that are known to help reduce the risk of cancer. Research has also shown that people with high blueberry consumption over twenty years have a 25% lower susceptibility to getting diabetes compared to those who don’t.
Watermelon
If you think blueberries have a low sugar level, wait till you meet the watermelon. Watermelons only have six grams of sugar for every 100 grams of watermelon. It’s one of the most diabetic-friendly fruits in the world. Watermelons also have a high percentage of water content, making them a great thirst-quencher. They contain high amounts of lycopene which are shown to enhance insulin sensitivity, reduced blood sugar levels, and reduce susceptibility to type 2 diabetes. Lycopene also lowers the extent of nerve damage caused by diabetes. Watermelon also contains potassium which prevents a key implication of diabetes: kidney damage.
Strawberries
This diabetic-friendly fruit requires no introduction. However, their benefits are highly understated. Strawberries consist of five grams of sugar for every 100 grams of fruit. Strawberries contain a high level of fiber, folate, vitamin C, and manganese. Strawberries have a low glycemic index as well. This means glucose is released slowly via the bloodstream. To achieve the best effect, combine a variety of the fruits mentioned above to complement each diabetic-friendly fruits’ benefits.
Discovery Village At Boynton Beach
At Discovery Village At Boynton Beach, we ensure your loved ones enjoy a consistently good nutritious diet through a variety of healthy foods, including diabetic-friendly fruits. Good nutrition is essential for your loved ones to enjoy good physical and mental health. Contact us to find out more!
