Four endocrinologists have recommended berries, bananas, pears and apples for people with diabetes in reports published by health website Verywell Health.
The medical specialists stated that people managing their blood sugar do not need to eliminate fruit from their diet entirely. Instead, they advised individuals to monitor portion sizes and combine fruits with other foods to maintain healthy glucose levels.
Endocrinologists are medical doctors who specialise in diagnosing and treating conditions related to hormones and metabolism. Diabetes is a chronic condition in which the body either does not produce enough insulin or cannot effectively use what it produces. Insulin is a hormone made by the pancreas that enables cells to absorb glucose from the bloodstream to produce energy.
Berries and bananas for balanced snacks
Fresh berries were highlighted as a popular choice among the specialists because they contain high amounts of dietary fibre and antioxidants. The doctors explained that fibre slows down the digestive process, allowing sugar to enter the bloodstream gradually. However, they warned that berries still contain carbohydrates and portion control remains necessary.
The experts also identified bananas as a convenient snack option. Although bananas contain natural sugars, they also supply fibre, potassium and vitamin B6. Potassium is a vital mineral that helps maintain healthy blood pressure, while vitamin B6 supports brain function and metabolism. To keep blood sugar stable, endocrinologists suggested pairing bananas with foods rich in protein or healthy fats, such as nuts or peanut butter, which helps make the snack more filling.
Pears and apples to manage glucose
Pears were cited as another beneficial option due to their relatively low glycemic index, which causes glucose levels to rise at a slower pace. The glycemic index measures how quickly specific foods elevate blood sugar. In addition, pears contain polyphenols, which are plant compounds that can influence carbohydrate metabolism and improve insulin sensitivity.
Apples are also regularly consumed by the endocrinologists themselves. The fruit contains soluble fibre, a substance that dissolves in water to form a gel in the gut, delaying digestion and slowing glucose absorption. Because fresh apples have a relatively low glycemic index, they typically cause a much more gradual rise in blood sugar than processed fruit products or fruit juices.
The endocrinologists concluded that no single fruit can be defined as the universal best option for everyone with diabetes. They noted that individual blood glucose responses depend on total portion size, overall dietary habits, and personal metabolic factors.
