Grapefruit is a rich source of vitamins A and C. It is also low in calories, and glycemic index. It is a nutritious fruit that everyone can enjoy, even individuals with diabetes. However, if you take diabetes medications, this fruit may not suitable you. Because of its potential interactions with different diabetes medications, grapefruit can cause your blood sugar levels to spike.
How many carbs do grapefruit contain?
One serving of grapefruit contains 15 grams of carbohydrates. Compared with other fruits, this amount is low. It makes grapefruit safe to consume as it helps in controlling the blood sugar levels. Half of a serving of this fruit contains 1.8 grams of fiber, making it a nutritious choice.
Even if grapefruit is safe to consume, avoid consuming it as juice. Grapefruit juice contains zero fiber, making it bad for someone with varying blood glucose levels. In other words, it contributes to diabetes. When taking any fruit, always monitor your blood sugar levels. Anything that has high carbohydrates or sugar can cause your blood glucose to rise.
GI (Glycemic Index)
The higher the GI is, the more difficult it is to control your blood glucose levels. Any type of food that has lower GI is safe. In the case of grapefruit, it has only 25 GI. The amount of GI in grapefruit makes it safer to consume compared to potatoes and white rice.
Although grapefruit has lesser GI, it does not mean you need to eat it a few times a day. Part of diabetes management is monitoring the blood sugar levels and controlling your diet. If you consume too much of this fruit, there is a high chance that your blood sugar levels will spike abnormally. Seek advice from your doctor to identify the quantity that is safe for you.
Interactions
This is where grapefruit becomes a big NO to individuals with diabetes. If you have diabetes and follow different forms of medicines eating grapefruit can lead to interactions. Some of the medications that can interact with grapefruit are those used for treating high cholesterol, depression, and high blood pressure. Furthermore, such interaction can increase the levels of medications within the blood.
What to do?
Besides grapefruit, you must also avoid pomelos when taking other medications. Other fruit options that you can enjoy include tangerines, oranges, blueberries, kiwis, plums, strawberries, and raspberries. These fruits contain a high amount of fiber and are low in carbohydrates.
Takeaway
Before adding any food into your daily diet plan, check with your healthcare professional first. Ask if what you’re adding is safe and good for your condition. Lastly, do not forget to follow your regular diabetes therapy.
Doctor’s Recommendation
Grapefruit affects the CYP3A4 system, so it may not be the best fruit to consume if any medication is metabolized by that enzyme. Glinides are affected by diabetic drugs and may cause low blood sugar, with concurrent grapefruit consumption. If taking any medicines, ask the pharmacist if they are metabolized by CYP3A4, as they will have specialized software to verify this information.
