Avocados have long been hailed as one of the good sources of monounsaturated fats, but are they also good for diabetics?
The good news is that avocados won’t cause spikes in blood sugar because they only contain a few carbohydrates. Type 2 diabetes and avocados can coexist, the latter possibly helping to alleviate symptoms of the former.
Reasons Why Avocados Are Good for Diabetics
1. They Are Low in Carbs so They Won’t Raise Blood Sugar Levels.
One half of a small avocado (the usual size of a serving) contains only about 5.9 grams of carbohydrates.
2. Avocados Are a Good Source of Fiber.
Half an avocado contains 4.6 grams of fiber. A 2012 review published in the Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine looked at the results of 15 studies about fiber supplements. Each supplement contained around 40 grams of fiber. When administered to people with type 2 diabetes, a reduction of fasting blood sugar levels was found. The results support the theory that a high fiber diet may be beneficial to people with type 2 diabetes.
3. Avocados May Help with Weight Loss and Improve Insulin Sensitivity
Diabetics will know that even a bit of weight loss can increase insulin sensitivity, which in turn reduces the possibility of developing serious complications. Healthy fats in avocados help make you feel full for longer. In a study which evaluated the different weight loss plans of people with decreased insulin sensitivity, it was found that monounsaturated fats, like those found in avocados, help the body use insulin more effectively.
Reasons Why Avocados May Be Bad for You
Overeating avocado may lead to a high intake of calories (one avocado has between 250-300 calories). So if you are trying to lose weight, rather than add avocados to your meals, rather choose to substitute less healthy foods with avocado.
Overall, the benefits of eating avocados far outweigh the potential risks, so it is a good idea to add avocado to your diet if you have diabetes. In conclusion, type 2 diabetes and avocados can coexist.
