Bananas For Diabetics: Can Diabetics Eat Banana? Know How It Affects Blood Sugar Levels

Banana is rich in sugar and carbs which can fluctuate blood sugar levels

Bananas for diabetes: Diabetes diet should include foods that do not contribute to fluctuations in blood sugar levels. Managing blood sugar is an important part of diabetes management. Diabetics are usually of the opinion that they should not eat fruits as they contain fructose, the natural sugar available in fruits. However, this is anything but true. Most fruits have low glycemic index which do not contribute to fluctuations in blood sugar levels. When consumed in controlled proportions, they can benefit the body in many ways, and this stands true even for diabetics. In this article, we are going to talk about bananas, the one fruit which is available in all seasons, and if it is healthy fruit for people with diabetes. 

Banana is a fruit which is commonly eaten as part of breakfast. It has a sweet taste and contains both carbs and sugar. So does it mean that the banana can increase your blood sugar levels? It is healthy for diabetics to consume banana? Keep reading to know the answer. 

Also read: Can Diabetics Eat Fruits? Know Tips To Choose The Right Fruits

Diabetes diet: Can banana affect your blood sugar levels?

Bananas are high in carbs. Foods rich in carbs are known to result in a rapid increase in blood sugar levels. A medium-sized banana contains 14gm of sugar and 6 gm of starch. But bananas are also rich in fibre. Bananas have a low GI score, and this the fruit to be an appropriate choice for diabetics.

Bananas are rich in fiber
Photo Credit: iStock

Dietitian Upasana Sharma, Head Nutritionist at Max Hospital says, "Banana contains sugar and carbs. But it is rich in fibre and has a low glycemic index. Diabetics can eat banana, but in moderation."

On being asked in which quantities should people with diabetes eat bananas, she says, "A small banana twice or thrice a week is safe diabetics. But, a diabetic should not consume banana daily."

Also read: What Is Glycemic Index? Top Foods With Low- Glycemic Index That Every Diabetic Must Know

(Upasana Sharma is Head Nutritionist, Max Hospital, Gurgaon)

Also read: Turmeric Can Help You Control Blood Sugar Levels; Here's Is The Right Method To Use It

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.