Fruits are rich in fibers, minerals and vitamins and low in sugars, compared to many other food choices.

Every fruit has its own benefits and can be consumed daily, weekly or seasonally.

Fruits are good to improve the overall health, reduce cholesterol and prevent heart diseases and diabetes.

Fruits add roughage to the diet, increase the volume of the feeds taken, produce early satiety, cause gastric motility and may relieve constipation.

Non-diabetic patients may take multiple servings (3-4) of fruits per day.

Diabetic patients may take 100-200 grams of raw fruits per day.

Best Fruits for Diabetic Patients – Guava, Papaya, Jamun/ Indian Blackberry,  Plum, Peaches, Kiwis, Pears, Apples, Oranges, melons. These fruits have less fat, sodium and sugars.

Fruits which should be consumed in less quantity by diabetics – mango, jackfruit, banana, chikku and grapes. These fruits have more sugars and less fiber. If you want to eat these fruits, take only 1-2 slices per day to avoid increase in blood sugars.

It is recommended to take fruits in the raw (whole) form, not as pie, puree or juice. If you cannot chew the fruits, you may consume fruits as pulp or juice, without added sugars. Consuming whole / raw  fruits add roughage to the diet, improve bowel movements and do not increase blood sugar levels. Whole fruits have less glycemic index than fruit puree, pie or juices.

Also, it is recommended to take fruits in fresh / raw form, NOT as commercially dried form. Because, dried fruits have less water and more concentrated sugars.

If you have kidney disease, your doctor may advice you NOT to take raw fruits or salads. This is to avoid potassium overload.

Discuss with your Physician about safe consumption of fruits.