World Diabetes Day 2023: Can Diabetics Eat A Slice Of Mango Daily? See What experts Say

People with diabetes can include a small serving of mango in their diet, but they should do so in moderation and with careful consideration of their overall carbohydrate intake.

Can Diabetics Eat A Slice Of Mango? Know All About It

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Mango is a delicious and nutritious fruit, but it is relatively high in natural sugars, particularly fructose, which can affect blood sugar levels. People with diabetes can include a small serving of mango in their diet, but they should do so in moderation and with careful consideration of their overall carbohydrate intake.

According to Twincy Ann Sunil, who is a Dietician and Nutritionist, at Apollo Spectra Hospital, Bangalore, "Nutrition is paramount for diabetics and monitoring the carbohydrate intake is important as it directly impacts the sugar intake. Majority of the calories in a mango are made up of sugar. Mangoes are rich in fructose, although they are great sources of vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients. They are capable of affecting ones sugar levels if consumed above moderation. For a diabetic, mango cannot be their go-to fruit, yet it is important to be part of a healthy lifestyle and here are some tips to deal with that."

Dr. Sushma Kumari, who is a Dietician, at CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad laid down some guidelines for diabetics when it comes to consuming mango:

• Portion Control: Keep your serving size small. A reasonable portion might be a small slice or about half a cup of diced mango.
• Monitor Blood Sugar: After consuming mango, monitor your blood sugar levels to see how your body responds. This will help you determine the impact of mango on your individual blood sugar levels.
• Balance with Other Foods: Consider incorporating mango into a balanced meal that includes fiber, protein, and healthy fats. This can help slow down the absorption of sugars and minimize blood sugar spikes.
• Timing Matters: Be mindful of when you consume mango. Eating it with other foods or as part of a meal may have a different impact on your blood sugar compared to eating it on its own as a snack.
• Consult a Dietitian: If you have diabetes, it's a good idea to work with a registered dietitian or healthcare provider to create a personalized meal plan that suits your specific needs and helps you manage your blood sugar effectively.

Nutrient Content Of Mangoes:

Sweedal Trinidade, who is the Chief of Dietary Services at P D. Hinduja Hospital & Medical Research Centre, Mahim mentioned the nutrient content of mangoes.

She said, "Magnifera Indica or Mango the king of fruits makes a grand entry in Indian markets every summer. This fruit available in different varieties, equally varied price range is rich in nutrients like vitamin C,A,E,Folate,potassium and fibre. This stone fruit with amazing taste and nutrition profile has glycemic index of 51, yes it has an impact on blood sugar level and often lies in list of foods to be avoided for people with Diabetes, insulin resistance, hyperglycemia and obesity. However, it is noteworthy that the rise is slow due to fibre content."

How Much Mangoes Can Be Consumed?

Sweedal Trinidade following factors based on which diabetics can consume mangoes:

• Present glycemic control
• Meal pattern
• Activity level
• It can be a replacement of equivalent carbohydrates from other carbohydrates rich foods
• Best to be sliced and eaten mindfully rather than juicing or pulping.
• It is best to avoid eating mango is the HbA1c is high, or you have fluctuating sugars and not able to maintain activity schedule.

She also went on to mention the best time to consume mangoes:

• Pre activity meal or post activity in combination with protein source.
• Midmeal snack.
• Salads with well meals. 

Remember that the glycemic response to foods can vary among individuals, so what works for one person may not work the same way for another. The key is to monitor your blood sugar levels, be mindful of portion sizes, and make informed choices based on your own body's response to mango or any other foods. In general, it's possible for diabetics to enjoy mango in moderation, but it's important to do so within the context of an overall balanced and controlled diet to help manage blood sugar levels effectively.

[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]