Oranges are tangy fruits rich in several nutrients. They are among the most popular fruits in the world. You can include them in your diet every day. However, if you have diabetes, you might think twice before eating an orange. Lots of diabetic patients have doubts about eating this fruit. Many assume that fruits are not ideal for diabetes, and oranges come under this list. But there are several benefits of oranges for individuals with diabetes. If you wish to know more about these benefits, continue reading this blog.
Oranges and Diabetes: A Nutritional Analysis
Glycemic Index or GI is the factor deciding the impact of foods on your blood sugar levels after a meal. If you consume foods with a low GI, you can manage your sugar levels better. Oranges have a low GI, which will not affect blood sugar levels. So, diabetics can have oranges as part of their healthy diet plan. However, portion control is highly recommended.
Oranges are also rich in Vitamin C, which boosts the functioning of the immune system. They also contain minerals and antioxidants. So, they are pretty beneficial not only to diabetics but also to others.
Oranges and Diabetes Management: The Facts
One medium-sized orange contains 4 grams of fiber, which plays a crucial role in digestion. Fiber reduces fasting sugar levels and also keeps your hemoglobin A1C (a test that shows your blood glucose levels over the past three months) in check. That’s the reason why many doctors suggest that diabetic patients add oranges to their diet. The American Diabetes Association or ADA also encourages diabetic patients to consume citrus fruits, including oranges.
Are Oranges a Good Fruit Choice for Diabetes?
Yes! Oranges are definitely a good fruit choice for diabetes. These fruits have flavonoid antioxidants, which have the capacity to combat inflammation. Flavonoid antioxidants are also helpful in lowering oxidative stress and addressing insulin resistance. Oxidative stress can result in cellular damage.
Diabetics need to include some whole fruits in their diet, and oranges are the ideal choice for them. Diabetics can have an orange every day. If they wish to have more, they must consult their doctor or healthcare provider. The number of oranges (if diabetics think of consuming more than one) a person can eat per day is also decided by several factors, such as their existing sugar and activity levels.
How Can Diabetics Consume Oranges?
It is better to consume oranges as whole fruits rather than in the form of juice. The fruit contains fiber, whereas the juice doesn’t. Fiber is important for diabetics because they aid in digestion and help prevent constipation. In addition to regulating blood sugar levels, oranges assist the body in fighting against heart disease.
If you have a sweet tooth, you can have an orange instead of a candy or a cookie. This will be the perfect way to satisfy your craving, and simultaneously, keep your blood sugar levels in check.
Since you now know the benefits of oranges for individuals with diabetes, go ahead and grab a fruit the next time you crave a sweet snack!
