Here is a question I recently received from FOODPICKER.org
I am worried because I was just diagnosed with diabetes. I drink freshly squeezed orange juice three times a week. Does orange juice contain too much sugar and is it advisable for a diabetic to drink juice?
Answer: In general, fresh, frozen and dried fruits are a better choice compared to drinking a juice beverage. Fruit juices will raise your blood sugar very quickly compared to a whole piece of fruit, and lack the fiber that whole fruit has. Typically, a ‘choice’ or item in the list below has 15 grams of carbohydrates, 0 grams of protein, 0 grams of fat and 60 calories.
- 1 small apple
- 1/2 cup applesauce
- 1 small banana
- 1/2 cup or 12 small cherries
- 1 small orange (plus more than 3 grams fiber!)
- 1/2 cup apple juice
- 1/3 cup grape juice
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/3 cup prune juice
I would also recommend setting an appointment with a registered dietitian or certified diabetes educator to learn more about diabetes and the basics of a meal plan. For more information how to find an educator in your area, visit the American Association of Diabetes Educators website to find an educator in your area or call the facility that diagnosed you to see if they provide education services. In the mean time, you can also take a look at the American Diabetes Association website to learn more.
Food for Thought 