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blood orange
CARBS
15.4g
PROTEINS
1.3g
FATS
0.2g
Quantity: 1 medium (about 131g)
Glycemic Index: 42
Glycemic Load: 6
Fiber: 3g
Key Nutrients: Vitamin C, antioxidants
Health Impact: Blood oranges have a moderate glycemic index and can cause a rise in blood sugar, necessitating careful portion control and monitoring.
💉 Suggested Bolus
Consider pre-bolusing or splitting the insulin dose if using insulin therapy.
🍽️ Best Paired With (Veg)
- Mixed nuts – Healthy fats and protein in nuts can help slow digestion and stabilize blood sugar levels.
- Chia seed pudding – Chia seeds are high in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, aiding in blood sugar control.
🍽️ Best Paired With (Non Veg)
- Grilled chicken salad – Protein from chicken helps moderate blood sugar increases and adds satiety.
- Smoked salmon – Omega-3 fatty acids in salmon improve insulin sensitivity and provide heart health benefits.
🥄 Smart Substitutes
- Avocado – Provides healthy fats and fiber, helping to stabilize blood sugar levels.
- Raspberries – Lower in carbs and high in fiber, reducing the likelihood of blood sugar spikes.
- Cucumber slices – Very low in carbohydrates and can help hydrate due to high water content.
⏱ Blood Sugar Timeline
- 0–15 min: Minimal impact as the body begins to digest the food.
- 30–60 min: Moderate rise in blood sugar due to natural sugars, though less than many other fruits.
- 2–3 hr: Blood sugar begins to stabilize as the fiber content helps to slow the release of sugar into the bloodstream.
— BCDF community member
🧠 Lowering Impact Tip
Consume in moderation and pair with a source of healthy fats or proteins to slow glucose absorption.
🤔 FAQs about blood orange
Can eating a blood orange affect my blood sugar?
Yes, while lower in sugar than many fruits, blood oranges can still cause a moderate rise in blood sugar. Monitoring your individual response is key.
What are the best times to consume fruits if I have diabetes?
Consuming fruits during or after a meal containing proteins or fats can help minimize blood sugar spikes.
Download the Full Metabolic Intelligence Report (PDF)
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