Strawberries are a healthy, nutritious fruit that contains carbohydrates. People with diabetes can safely eat strawberries but may wish to consider factors such as portion management when doing so.

Diabetes is a condition where the pancreas becomes unable to produce insulin or cannot use the hormone efficiently. As part of treatment, a person living with diabetes may need to consider the effects of different foods on their blood sugar level.

Strawberries can be a beneficial addition to the diet of someone living with diabetes. Not only are they low in calories and contain an array of nutrients, but they also have a low glycemic index (GI), which means they are unlikely to cause a spike in blood sugar.

Read on to learn more about the effects of consuming strawberries for people living with diabetes.

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Strawberries are a group of sweet fruits that come in several varieties. They are part of the rose family.

Most fruits, including strawberries, have a low GI. GI measures how quickly a food can raise a person’s blood sugar. Despite strawberries having a relatively low GI, it is important to consider both portion sizes and individual factors. These may include personal blood sugar response and overall dietary needs.

If in any doubt, a person should consult with their healthcare team or a registered dietitian.

Strawberries have a number of health benefits, some of which are below.

Nutritional benefits

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suggests that approximately 8 medium-sized strawberries provide 170 milligrams (mg) of potassium. Potassium can have positive effects on high blood pressure, a common issue that can arise in people with diabetes.

Additionally, strawberries contain a B vitamin called folate. Folate helps with cell division and making DNA and other genetic material.

Learn about the link between diabetes and high blood pressure.

Antioxidants

Strawberries are high in vitamin C, which is an antioxidant. Vitamin C can provide a number of benefits, such as helping keep cells healthy, helping with wound healing, and maintaining healthy skin.

Strawberries also contain other antioxidants, such as anthocyanin. Research suggests that anthocyanin may have anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects.

Blood sugar management

A 2020 review suggests that strawberries, either alone or in combination with another food, may improve glycemic profiles. And as they have a low GI and contain fiber, they are unlikely to cause a person’s blood sugar to spike. The fiber in strawberries can also help with heart and digestive health.

Strawberries also contain magnesium. A 2022 study suggests that magnesium may help to increase insulin sensitivity in those with type 2 diabetes.

Strawberries are generally safe for people with diabetes to eat. However, as with many dietary suggestions, moderation is important.

For people who inject insulin with meals or snacks as part of their diabetes treatment, they should count strawberries as part of the total carbohydrates they consume and adjust their dose accordingly.

Strawberries are a sweet, versatile fruit that people can add to a number of dishes or eat as a snack.

Strawberries make a tasty addition to smoothies and Buddha bowls, as well as a topping on cereal, porridge, and overnight oats. For meals and snacks during the day, a person may consider adding strawberries to their salad or making a fruit salad with strawberries.

When incorporating strawberries into a person’s diet, a person may want to consider:

  • Portion management: As with any food, moderation is key. It is important to monitor portion sizes to help prevent excessive sugar intake. Aim for a serving size of around 1 cup of fresh strawberries, which contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.
  • Pairing strawberries with healthy fats and proteins: Combining strawberries with a source of protein or healthy fats can help balance their overall effect on blood sugar. Consider eating strawberries with a handful of nuts, Greek yogurt, or as a topping on a salad.
  • Limit added sugars: Be mindful of added sugars when consuming strawberries in processed forms, such as jams or syrups. It can help to opt for fresh or frozen strawberries without added sugars whenever possible.

Strawberries can be a safe, beneficial addition to the diet for individuals living with diabetes. They offer a range of nutrients and antioxidants that support overall health and blood sugar management.

Because of their low GI, strawberries have relatively minor effects on blood sugar when consumed in moderation. However, it is important to consider individual needs. A person may wish to consult a healthcare professional or registered dietitian to ensure they follow an appropriate, balanced diet that aligns with their personal health goals.