Can Diabetics Eat Navel Oranges?

Have you ever asked your doctor can diabetics can eat navel oranges? If you love navel oranges and you’re a diabetic, you are in luck! According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), oranges are considered to be a “diabetes superfood” and are on the ADA’s list as the “top 10 foods everyone should eat to superpower their diets.” Navel oranges made the list because they have a low glycemic index and provide important healthful nutrients such as calcium, fiber, potassium, magnesium and Vitamin A, Vitamin C and Vitamin E.

Because the average size navel orange has only approximately 17 grams of carbohydrates and a low glycemic index of around 42, diabetics can enjoy one navel orange per day. Florida navel oranges contain a high amount of dietary fiber, which helps control blood glucose levels. Navel oranges also contain large amounts of antioxidants, and an antioxidant-rich diet may help to prevent diabetes. Also, research has shown that those who eat a high amount of carotenoids, an antioxidant found in navel oranges, have less risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

The sugar in whole fruits such as navels are less concentrated than in liquid form, so eating a navel orange versus drinking orange juice means there is less of a quick rise in blood sugar levels. When eating navel oranges, the sugar absorbs slower, so blood sugar levels remain more consistent. Because navel oranges also contain fiber, this also helps regulate blood sugar levels by slower absorption into the bloodstream. People with Type 2 diabetes who also have out of control blood sugar levels, should eat navels with a combination of a protein snack, or consult their nutritionist if blood sugar levels remain out of control.

Some healthful diabetic snack ideas include eating a navel orange with a handful of whole raw almonds, adding navel orange slices to nonfat Greek yogurt topped with chopped pecans or flaxseed or serving navel oranges with low-fat cottage cheese.

Hale Groves Heritage Navel Oranges are grown from trees that are 50 years old and older. Their deep roots draw nutrients to the fruit to produce the most quality fruit for you, your family and friends. Choose from Red Navel Oranges, Heritage Navel Oranges and Grove Navel Oranges, and buy navel oranges today.

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