With the warm weather in full swing, everybody at the beaches in their itsy bitsy bikinis, and the summer season changing our cravings for something fruity delicious, that means one thing: lots of luscious, fresh fruit tempting our pallets with their colorful yuminess.
But if you have diabetes, you may be in a slight pickle, because many fruits contain a high amount of natural sugar- an ingredient your doctor, and your diabetes orders you to stay away from. Fruits are also packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, all three of which should play a major role in your diabetic diet- a medically proven fact by the American Diabetes Association (ADA).
You may be wondering, then, “Can I fit these seasonal treats into my diet plan without them causing more damage, and instead reverse my diabetes?” The answer is yes. Sounds too good to be true?
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.
Here are three fruits that every diabetic can eat, and satisfy their sweet tooth without guilt or consequences. With the following fresh or frozen low-carb choices below, you will be able to keep your blood sugar in check.
Berries
Benefits: Full of Antioxidants
The urge to pop one of these beauties in your mouth is a feeling every person feels when they see fresh berries sitting there in all their delicious glory. According to the ADA, berries are a diabetes superfood because they're packed with antioxidants, vitamins, fiber, and are low-carb. Did you know?: 3/4 of a cup of fresh blueberries have 62 calories, and 16 grams of carbohydrates? Eaten fresh, frozen, or as a breakfast dessert such as parfait, however you chose to eat them, I encourage you to indulge.
Tart Cherries
Benefits: Fight Inflammation
According to a recent study, tart cherries contain more anti-inflammatory agents than any other known fuit, and are also packed full with antioxidants, which fight heart disease, cancer, and other diseases. For more health benefits, purchase fresh cherries rather than canned ones, since many canned and dried cherries contain added sugar to preserve them. Cherries can be added safely to your diet, because they are a low-carb, low-GI fruit choice. Enjoy a bowl of fresh cherries for a yummy snack this summer, and your body will thank you for it.
Peaches
Benefits: Full of Potassium
These soft, juicy fruits can be included in your low-carb diabetic diet, as they contain vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber. They can be eaten on their own, sliced up onto a plate, or just munched on like an apple; or, can be a fruity delicious addition into iced tea with a sublime 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. Voila! A perfect fruit option for any diabetic.
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