Fruit juices, such as grapefruit, orange, apple, pomegranate, guava, pear, and berries, are low in sugar and can help improve insulin resistance. According to Master and Doctor Nguyen Anh Duy Tung from the Nutrihome Nutrition Center, these fruits have a low glycemic index (GI) of less than 70 and a low glycemic load (GL) of more than 20. They also contain antioxidants that can protect pancreatic beta cells, enhance kidney function, fight inflammation, and improve cardiovascular health.
Grapefruit juice is particularly beneficial for those with diabetes as it can help prevent cardiovascular complications by lowering cholesterol levels in the blood. Orange juice has a low GI and antioxidant compounds that can help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. Apple juice is rich in quercetin, which can protect the kidneys and slow down kidney damage common in diabetes patients. Pomegranate juice has its own unique benefits for managing diabetes and improving health.
While fruit juices can be beneficial for those with diabetes, it’s important to be mindful of portion sizes and timing. Juicing can remove natural fiber from fruits, making it easier for the body to absorb glucose and carbohydrates. This quicker increase in blood sugar levels should be avoided by not consuming large amounts of fruit juice at once or close to mealtimes. It’s recommended not to add sugar to fruit juice either. Patients with diabetes should also regularly monitor their blood sugar levels, take prescribed medications