11 Low Sugar Fruits That Won’t Make Blood Sugar Spike

Last updated on November 2nd, 2023

You would think that the only things you need to avoid for diabetes management are unhealthy, processed foods, right? After all, fruits are typically considered super healthy and completely natural. So, why is it that even these wholesome fruits need to be chosen carefully if you have diabetes?

The truth is that managing diabetes is a nuanced and intricate journey, where every morsel you consume has an impact on your well-being. Fruits, while undoubtedly packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and fibre, also contain a varying degree of natural sugars. These sugars, even though they are natural, can affect your blood sugar levels. Hence, your dietary choices must be well-informed and balanced. Let’s take a look at some fruits with less sugar that diabetics can happily consume.

11 Fruits That Has Less Sugar Content

Listed below are some fruits that are low in sugar.

1. Berries (Strawberries, Blueberries, Raspberries, Blackberries)

• Strawberries: These bright red berries are a delicious low-sugar option. They’re packed with vitamin C, antioxidants, and dietary fibre. The fibre helps slow the absorption of sugar, preventing sharp spikes in blood glucose levels. Strawberries can be enjoyed fresh, added to yoghurt, or used in smoothies and salads.
• Blueberries: Blueberries are well-known for their high antioxidant content, particularly anthocyanins. They have a low glycemic index, making them a diabetes-friendly choice. Antioxidants in blueberries may help reduce inflammation and improve insulin sensitivity. Blueberries are excellent additions to oatmeal and cereal or can be enjoyed as a snack.
• Raspberries: Raspberries are high in dietary fibre, vitamins (like vitamin C), and antioxidants. The fibre aids in blood sugar control and promotes a feeling of fullness. They can be included in cereal, mixed with Greek yoghurt, or eaten on their own.
• Blackberries: Blackberries are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Their low sugar content and high fibre make them suitable for diabetes management. Blackberries can be part of fruit salads, smoothies, or a healthy dessert.

2. Avocado

Avocado stands out among fruits that have low sugar due to its unique composition, primarily consisting of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. These fats offer several significant advantages for managing diabetes, such as:

1. Enhancing insulin sensitivity
2. Promoting satiety
3. Providing essential nutrients.

The monounsaturated fats, notably oleic acid, enhance insulin sensitivity, which is crucial for regulating blood sugar levels. Additionally, these fats promote a sense of fullness, potentially reducing calorie intake and supporting weight management—a key aspect of diabetes control. Avocado is not only a source of healthy fats but also has essential nutrients, including potassium, vitamin K, vitamin E, and various B vitamins, contributing to overall health. 

Whether mashed on whole-grain toast, added to salads, whipped into guacamole, or used as a topping, avocados offer a delicious and health-promoting choice that aligns with diabetes management goals.

3. Kiwi

Kiwi, renowned for its vibrant green flesh and tiny black seeds, is a low-sugar fruit with a plethora of nutritional benefits:

1. Vitamin C
2. Vitamin K
3. Fibre

It’s a fantastic source of vitamin C, delivering even more of this essential vitamin per serving than an orange, 92.7 mg of vitamin C per 100 g, to be precise, making it a great choice for supporting your immune system. In addition to vitamin C, kiwis are rich in vitamin K, which is crucial for blood clotting and bone health. The dietary fibre in kiwis aids in digestion and can contribute to a sense of fullness. 

This delightful fruit can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, from slicing it and eating it fresh to adding it to fruit salads for an extra burst of flavour. Kiwis also make an excellent addition to smoothies, bringing a tangy and refreshing twist to your beverages. Whether as a standalone snack or a flavourful ingredient in your culinary creations, kiwis are a healthy and low-sugar choice to consider in your diabetes management journey.

Read More: 15 Ways To Lower Your Insulin Levels Naturally 

4. Lemon

Lemon is the fruit with least sugar content available. The minimal sugar content makes it virtually sugar-free and a great choice for people with diabetes. This citrus fruit is a rich source of vitamin C, which helps support your immune system, skin health, and overall well-being. 

Lemons or limes bring a zesty and tangy flavour to your dishes and are among the lowest-sugar fruits for diabetics. Their refreshing acidity can elevate the taste of a wide range of culinary creations. They can be used to create tangy salad dressings, marinades for meats and vegetables, and garnishes for both sweet and savoury dishes.

5. Papaya

Papaya is a tropical fruit that is relatively low in sugar, making it a suitable choice for individuals with diabetes. Its natural sweetness comes with a lower glycemic impact. It’s also an excellent source of vitamin A, which is crucial for maintaining healthy vision, skin, and mucous membranes. The fibre in papaya contributes to a feeling of fullness, and the enzyme papain can aid in digestion. Papaya also contains beta-carotene, which can help combat free radicals and support overall health.

This fruit with little sugar can be sliced into chunks and eaten fresh, blended into smoothies to add a tropical twist, or incorporated into fruit salsas to complement the flavours of other dishes.

6. Cantaloupe

Cantaloupe, while sweeter than some other low-sugar fruits, is another fruit that has low sugar content and is considered a good choice for a diabetes-friendly diet. It’s high in vitamin A, vitamin C, and dietary fibre. 

You can enjoy cantaloupe as a low-sugar snack by simply cutting it into sweet and juicy chunks. It’s also an excellent addition to fruit salads, enhancing their flavour and providing a touch of natural sweetness. 

7. Watermelon

With its exceptionally high water content, it’s a top choice for quenching your thirst and staying well-hydrated. Its water-rich nature makes it particularly appealing on hot days or after physical activity. Watermelon is considered a low-sugar fruit, although it’s sweeter than some others on this list. Its natural sugars are accompanied by a significant water content, which can help dilute the overall sugar concentration. This can make it a reasonable choice for those mindful of sugar intake, especially when consumed in moderation.

Interestingly, watermelon isn’t just about its flesh. The rind of watermelon can be used to make a unique and delightful dinner dish. By sauteing it with spices, tomatoes, and seasonings, you create a unique and flavourful dish that pairs perfectly with roti. 

8. Grapefruit

Grapefruit is a favoured breakfast fruit with a host of nutritional benefits. A half of a medium-sized grapefruit contains just 8.5 grams of sugar, making it a flavourful and low-sugar addition to your morning routine. This portion also provides an impressive 43% of the daily value for vitamin C.

In a 2021 review of studies, grapefruit was found to have the potential to prevent type 2 diabetes. It is one of the fruits that lower sugar levels and showcases the value of incorporating this citrus fruit into your diet.

Beyond breakfast, consider adding it to salads to infuse a burst of zesty flavour or incorporating it into meals featuring non-starchy vegetables like broccoli and lean protein sources such as chicken. Its culinary flexibility allows you to experience the tangy goodness of grapefruit in a variety of dishes, contributing to both taste and health.

9. Cranberries

Cranberries are notably low in sugar, with just 4 grams per cup, making them an excellent choice for those monitoring their sugar intake. They are renowned for their potential to reduce the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Research suggests that cranberries can lower the risk of UTIs by about one-third, thanks to their ability to prevent bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract lining.

When purchasing cranberries, look for those that are shiny, plump, and possess a deep, vibrant colour. This ensures that you’re getting the freshest and most nutrient-rich cranberries.

If you appreciate the tangy taste of fresh cranberries, you can incorporate them into your diet creatively. Add them to Greek yoghurt for a burst of flavour, mix them into your morning oatmeal for a delightful twist, or toss them into salads to add a zesty touch to your greens.

10. Oranges

Oranges, beloved for their sweet and tangy flavour, can be a part of a low-sugar diet. A single orange contains just under 13 grams of sugar, offering a delightful balance of sweetness without excessive sugar intake. In addition to their pleasant taste, oranges provide 3 grams of dietary fibre and a whopping 70% of the daily recommended value in one serving.  Opt for oranges that feel heavy and firm to the touch, ensuring you’re getting the freshest and juiciest fruit.

11. Plums

They stand out with their relatively low sugar content, containing less than 7 grams of sugar in a single plum. Plums are fibre-packed with approximately 1 gram of dietary fibre per serving.  With just 30 calories per plum, plums are a guilt-free option for those looking to manage their weight while enjoying a sweet and nutritious fruit.  

Plums can be savoured much like an apple, offering a convenient and wholesome snack option. You can also include them in a variety of recipes, from salads to desserts, to enjoy their sweet and tangy flavour in numerous culinary creations.

Note: Even when consuming low-sugar fruits, portion control is crucial. Overindulgence can still result in elevated glucose levels. A balanced approach to fruit consumption is important. Listed below are the nutritional values of the fruits discussed in this blog:

Read More: Is Cranberry Juice Good for Diabetics?

Cooking and Meal Ideas

Low Sugar Fruits for Diabetes Management

Incorporating low-sugar fruits into a diabetic-friendly diet can be a delightful and nutritious experience. Here are some practical tips and meal ideas to help you make the most of these fruits:

1. Snacking: Choose a small serving of berries with a dollop of Greek yoghurt for a satisfying and low-sugar snack.
2. Smoothies: Create a nutrient-packed, low-sugar smoothie by blending avocados, spinach, and a handful of berries.
3. Salads: Add sliced kiwi, apples, or citrus segments to your salads for a burst of flavour and nutrition.
4. Desserts: Make a simple fruit salad or a sugar-free fruit parfait with layers of fruit and yoghurt.

While incorporating fruits without sugar into your diet, it’s important to keep your overall carbohydrate intake in check and regularly monitor your blood sugar levels.

Read More: Are Grapefruits Safe for Diabetics?

Conclusion

Choosing fruits low in sugar for diabetes can help individuals manage their blood sugar levels without compromising on taste. These fruits offer a naturally sweet and nutritious alternative without causing drastic spikes in blood sugar. Remember that portion control and a well-balanced diet are crucial elements of diabetes management.

By making informed choices and integrating low-sugar fruits into your meals, you can savour a wide variety of flavours and health benefits while maintaining better control over your blood sugar levels. Always consult with healthcare professionals for personalised dietary advice and guidance to effectively manage diabetes.

Read More: Indian Diet for Diabetes Reversal.

Last Updated on November 2, 2023 by Dr. Damanjit Duggal