1 Cup — Diabetes Nutrition Facts

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https://www.bluecircle.foundation/food/orange-juice

Orange juice

CARBS

26g

PROTEINS

FATS

Orange juice is high in natural sugars and lacks fiber, making it less advisable for individuals managing diabetes with a low-carbohydrate diet.

Quantity: 250ml

Glycemic Index: 50

Glycemic Load: 12

Fiber: 0g

Key Nutrients: Vitamin C, potassium

Health Impact: Rapid increase in blood sugar due to high carbohydrate content and absence of fiber, leading to a quick insulin response and short digestion time.

💉 Suggested Bolus

If consumed, consider a dual-wave or extended bolus to manage the rapid rise in blood glucose.

🍽️ Best Paired With (Veg)

Mixed nuts – Healthy fats and protein in nuts can help slow the absorption of sugar and stabilize blood sugar levels.
Chia seed pudding – High in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, which can help manage blood sugar levels effectively.

🍽️ Best Paired With (Non Veg)

Grilled chicken salad – Protein from chicken helps moderate blood sugar rises and adds satiety to meals.
Boiled eggs – Provide a good source of protein and fats with very low carbohydrates, aiding in blood sugar control.

🥄 Smart Substitutes

Tomato juice – Lower in carbohydrates and provides essential nutrients like vitamin C and potassium without spiking blood sugar.
Cucumber juice with a hint of lemon – Very low in carbohydrates and can help hydrate the body while keeping blood sugar levels stable.
Unsweetened almond milk – Minimal impact on blood sugar and provides a good source of vitamin E and healthy fats.

⏱ Blood Sugar Timeline

0–15 min: Rapid increase in blood sugar due to high glucose content.
30–60 min: Peak in blood sugar levels, potentially requiring insulin adjustment.
2–3 hr: Gradual decline in blood sugar, risk of hypoglycemia if insulin was over-adjusted.

“Many in the diabetes community find that completely avoiding high-sugar drinks like orange juice is crucial for maintaining stable blood sugar levels throughout the day.”
— BCDF community member

🧠 Lowering Impact Tip

Opt for eating a whole orange instead of drinking juice to benefit from the fiber, which helps slow down sugar absorption.

🤔 FAQs about Orange juice

Can I drink orange juice if I dilute it with water?

Diluting orange juice reduces its sugar concentration but it's still high in carbs compared to other beverages. Opt for a lower-carb alternative.

Is there a best time to consume orange juice for a diabetic?

Generally, it's best to avoid orange juice due to its high sugar content. If consumed, it should be paired with a meal high in protein or fats to mitigate blood sugar spikes.

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