It is commonly believed that fruits should be avoided by diabetics. This is not the case with many fruits, however. Pineapple can be had by diabetic individuals. The key, as in eating habits for diabetes in general, is moderation.
- The advantage that pineapples offer is that they are a rich source of vitamins, minerals and fiber.
- They are a good source of B complex vitamins, vitamin C and the mineral manganese.
- It also contains an enzyme called bromelain which may improve digestion and some chronic ailments.
Fibre is good for diabetics as many people with the disease suffer from chronic constipation and bloating of the abdomen due to autonomic neuropathy: due to this complication, the motility of the stomach and intestines is slowed causing the aforementioned problems.
Pineapple is a fruit which is classified as one having a glycemic index in the medium range.
As a general rule, diabetics should avoid having foods which have a high glycemic index(GI), which tend to cause sharp increases in the blood glucose levels.
High GI foods have a rank over 70, medium GI foods are between 55-69 while low GI foods are at less than 55.
But having canned or dried pineapples will greatly increase the GI as they mostly have added sugar, so it is best that they are consumed fresh.
Given the above facts, it is therefore advisable that diabetics consume pineapples in moderation, and as a snack in between two major meals. They can also be combined with other foods which have a low GI.
