Raspberries and Diabetes

While fruits are known to have high dietary fiber content, raspberries stand out with an exceptionally high fiber content of other fruits with their uniquely high fiber content of 8 g per cup. This feature makes them indispensable in diabetics’ diets. 

Apart from the fiber content, the carb and calorie count of foods also matter for people with diabetes. However, raspberries deliver once again with a low-calorie content of 64 cal and moderate carb content of 14.6 g per cup.

Raspberry is also a rich source of vitamin A, potassium, and magnesium, which are beneficial to diabetic health.

Several studies support the theory that consuming raspberry as whole fruit can help lower the blood sugar levels of diabetics and lower the risk of developing diabetes complications. We’ll examine some of these in the following section.

Reduces Postprandial Glucose Levels and Glucose Absorption

While it is normal for glucose levels to spike after every meal, it is precarious for people with diabetes. Once again, raspberries to the rescue, owing to their glucose-lowering effect. A study done on 28 adults with hyperinsulinemia and impaired fasting glucose reinforces this claim.

Namely, consuming red raspberries alongside carb-dense and fat-dense breakfast meals significantly reduced postprandial glucose levels. This could be due to its high dietary fiber content of 21–32% RDA. Research proves that dietary fibers retard food digestion and nutrient absorption, thereby influencing lipid and carb metabolism.

Another study on dietary berries (including cranberries and other berries) proves that consuming a combination of berries in small amounts counteracts the hyperglycemic effect of carbohydrates in overweight/obese insulin-resistant adults and adults with metabolic syndrome. Notably, it achieves this by promoting a reduction in postprandial glucose and insulin responses. These berries, when eaten alone or alongside other healthy foods, can lower blood pressure and atherosclerosis markers — enabling the prevention of diabetes complications like heart diseases.

Reduces Inflammation Risk

Following the development of type 2 diabetes, insulin sensitivity reduces, which leads to inflammation. This inflammation is marked by compounds like interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF). However, research proves that raspberries cause a reduction of these inflammatory agents.

One study done on obese type 2 diabetes patients records a significant drop in the aforementioned inflammation biomarkers as well as reduced postprandial serum sugar and serum triglycerides levels.

While a relationship between the intake of raspberries and diabetes management exists, consuming them in specific ways may help you benefit maximally from them. If you have diabetes, you might want to try out the following ideas:

• You can wash and eat it fresh
• Add to spinach or mixed green salad
• Add to a low-fat muffin or quick bread
• Make a mixed berry salad with other berries
• Combine with cantaloupe or peaches in a smoothie