Diabetics can eat almost all types of natural foods in moderation while keeping their blood sugar levels in check. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases suggests that diabetics include fruits in their diet. However, they should also be cautious of certain fruits that contain high sugar levels and can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar. Further, it is important to make careful considerations or to consult your diabetologist before you make any changes to your diet. In this blog, let’s take a detailed look at some high-sugar fruits to avoid for diabetes.

Fruits for Diabetes
Diabetics should not avoid eating fruits. A seven-year-long study conducted in China (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5388466/) suggests that consuming fruits may help prevent diabetes while also reducing diabetic mortality rates and vascular complications associated with the disease. However, it is essential to understand the full nutritional profile of a fruit before consuming it. In addition, it is good to eat them in moderation to maximize its benefits. In general, fresh fruits, when consumed in their natural form, provide a rich source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
High-Sugar Fruits
Each fruit differs in sugar content. If you are diabetic or pre-diabetic, you should be considerate of what you consume and how much. Certain fruits have high sugar content, which means they have a higher glycemic index, resulting in blood sugar spikes and increasing the risk of diabetes-related complications. Don’t avoid these fruits, but instead, be well informed to eat them moderately. Further, to avoid rapid blood sugar fluctuations, add these fruits to a well-balanced diet. At the same time, these fruits can serve as an immediate remedy for treating hypoglycemia.
High-Sugar Fruits to Avoid for Diabetes
- Ripe Bananas – High in potassium and fiber but also rich in natural sugar. The sugar content increases as they ripen, making them a high-GI fruit. Best consumed in small portions.
- Mango – They are naturally sweet and high in sugar, that can spike blood sugar levels. Eat them in moderation and pair with fiber or protein.
- Jackfruit – Contains beneficial nutrients but is also high in carbs and sugar. Best consumed in controlled portions.
- Grapes – Rich in antioxidants but packed with fructose. Overeating can lead to blood sugar spikes. Keep servings small.
- Pineapple – Loaded with vitamin C but has a high GI. Limit intake and avoid consuming large portions at once.
- Apricots – Fresh apricots are a good source of fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, but they still contain natural sugars. Dried apricots have a higher sugar concentration, so fresh ones are a better choice in moderation.
- Dates – Fresh dates are a good choice in moderation. However, when they are dried, they lose water and become highly concentrated in sugar, resulting in a high glycemic load. Some dates also have added sugar, making them even less suitable for diabetics.
Fruit Juices (Even 100% Natural)
Fruit juices, even if they are labeled as “100% pure,” lack the fiber found in whole fruits. This means that their natural sugars are absorbed quickly, leading to a sharp rise in blood sugar levels. Unlike whole fruits, which provide fiber to slow digestion, fruit juices can cause a spike in glucose, making them a poor choice for diabetics. It’s always better to consume whole fruits instead of their juiced versions.
Dried Fruits (Higher Sugar Concentration)
Drying fruits removes water, concentrating their sugar content and increasing their glycemic load. A fresh apricot, for example, has much less sugar than its dried counterpart. Some dried fruits, like raisins and dates, contain even more sugar per gram than candy. Additionally, many commercially sold dried fruits have added sugars, making them even worse for diabetics. If consumed, they should be eaten in very small quantities and preferably paired with fiber-rich or protein-based foods to slow sugar absorption.
How to Consume High-Sugar Fruits Safely as a Diabetic?
- Always choose to eat whole fruits as it contains fiber. Further, it helps slow down sugar absorption. Moreover, avoid fruit juices and dried fruits whenever possible.
- Pair and eat fruits together with nuts, seeds, yogurt, or cheese. As, it can help reduce blood sugar spikes.
- Even if you are eating fruits with lower sugar content if you don’t limit portion size that can raise you blood sugar. So, stick to small servings.
- Also, prefer low-GI fruits like berries, apples, and pears over high-GI ones like pineapples and jack fruits.
To Sum-up
Fruits provide essential nutrients, fiber, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a valuable part of a healthy diet. While some have a high glycemic index, they can still be enjoyed in moderation by following expert guidelines. Diabetics can manage blood sugar levels by choosing wisely, controlling portions, and pairing fruits with protein or healthy fats. Instead of avoiding fruits altogether, focusing on balance is key to better health. However, it’s important to be mindful of high-sugar fruits to avoid for diabetes, as they can cause blood sugar spikes if consumed in excess.
At Erode Diabetes Foundation (EDF) and MMCH, we help diabetics make smart food choices for better health. Our experts provide personalized diet plans, education, and support to manage diabetes effectively. We focus on awareness about high-sugar fruits, portion control, and the glycemic index to prevent blood sugar spikes. Contact us today to learn more and take charge of your health!