Diabetes type 2 - the common 20p fruit that could slash the risk of high blood sugar

DIABETES type 2 risk could be lowered by making some diet or lifestyle changes. You could slash your chances of developing high blood sugar symptoms and signs by eating more of this common fruit, as it’s rich in vitamin C.

Top five foods to avoid with diabetes

Diabetes is a common condition that affects around 3.7 million people in the UK. It’s caused by the pancreas not producing enough of the hormone insulin, or the body not reacting to insulin. You could lower your chances of diabetes by making some small dietary changes. Eating more oranges could help you to avoid diabetes, it’s been claimed.

Consume fruit in its whole, natural form, and avoid syrups or any processed fruits with added sugar

Everyday Health

Oranges are a great addition to any diabetes diet, according to medical website Everyday Health.

They have a low glycaemic-index, which means they’re digested more slowly, and their carbohydrate content is released more gradually. That means there’s less chance of a spike in blood sugar levels.

Oranges are also a great source of vitamin C, which has been linked to a lower risk of developing diabetes.

“When you're looking for a diabetes-friendly treat that can help keep your blood sugar within a healthy range, look no farther than the produce drawer of your refrigerator or the fruit basket on your kitchen table,” said the medical website.

“Consume fruit in its whole, natural form, and avoid syrups or any processed fruits with added sugar, which have the tendency to spike your blood sugar.

“Eat one orange and you've gotten all the vitamin C you need in a day.

Diabetes type 2 diet: Prevent high blood sugar

Diabetes type 2 diet: Prevent high blood sugar symptoms and signs with oranges (Image: GETTY Images)

“This low glycaemic-index choice comes in at only 15g of carbohydrates and 62 calories. Oranges also contain folate and potassium, which may help normalise blood pressure.

“And while you're enjoying this juicy treat, don't forget that other citrus fruits, like grapefruit, are also great choices.”

Aside from oranges, apples and tart cherries should also be added to a diabetes patients’ weekly shopping list, it said.

Apples are low in calories, and are packed full of fibre and vitamin C. The most nutritious parts of the apples are in the peel.

Tart cherries could lower your risk of developing diabetes-related complications, including heart disease.

Diabetes type 2 diet: Speak to a doctor

Diabetes type 2 diet: Speak to a doctor if you're worried about the symptoms of diabetes (Image: GETTY Images)

There aren’t any foods that diabetes patients should actively avoid, but it’s important to limit the amount of salt, fat and sugar in your diet, added the NHS.

Managing your blood sugar levels is crucial if you have diabetes, as you’re more at risk of some deadly complications.

But, a number of people could have the condition without even realising, as the symptoms don’t tend to make you feel unwell.

Common diabetes symptoms include feeling very tired and run down, passing more urine than normal, and having an unquenchable thirst.

Speak to a doctor if you’re worried about the signs or symptoms of diabetes, or if you think you may be at risk.

A quick blood test could reveal whether you have diabetes, or not.

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