Food & Diabetes Search
Search any food to understand its impact on your blood sugar — see carbs, protein, fat, fiber, glycemic index, and more.
https://www.bluecircle.foundation/food/pumpkin
Pumpkin
CARBS
7g
PROTEINS
1g
FATS
0.1g
Pumpkin is a low-carbohydrate vegetable suitable for a diabetes management diet.
Quantity: 100g
Glycemic Index: 75
Glycemic Load: 3
Fiber: 0.5g
Key Nutrients: Vitamin A, potassium, vitamin C
Health Impact: Pumpkin has a low glycemic load, promoting minimal blood sugar spikes and a slower insulin response.
💉 Suggested Bolus
Consider a smaller insulin bolus due to the low glycemic load, and time the bolus with meal consumption.
🍽️ Best Paired With (Veg)
- Almond flour – Provides a low-carb base for recipes, enhancing texture without adding significant carbs.
- Chia seeds – Adds fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, helping to slow digestion and stabilize blood sugar levels.
🍽️ Best Paired With (Non Veg)
- Grilled chicken – Lean protein source that helps balance the meal and reduce overall glycemic load.
- Salmon – Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein, supporting overall health and blood sugar control.
🥄 Smart Substitutes
- Zucchini – Lower in carbohydrates and provides similar texture when cooked.
- Spaghetti squash – Offers a pasta-like experience with significantly fewer carbs.
- Cauliflower – Versatile and can be used in recipes as a low-carb alternative to starchy vegetables.
⏱ Blood Sugar Timeline
- 0–15 min: Minimal impact as pumpkin is low in carbs and has a low glycemic index.
- 30–60 min: Slight increase in blood sugar, depending on portion size and preparation.
- 2–3 hr: Blood sugar levels should stabilize due to the fiber content in pumpkin helping to moderate glucose absorption.
“Many in the low-carb community find that incorporating pumpkin into their meals adds variety without significantly impacting blood sugar levels, especially when used in moderation and paired with high-protein or high-fiber foods.”
— BCDF community member
— BCDF community member
🧠 Lowering Impact Tip
Combine pumpkin with healthy fats or proteins to further reduce the glycemic response.
🤔 FAQs about Pumpkin
Can pumpkin be part of a low-carb diet?
Yes, pumpkin can be included in a low-carb diet. It's naturally low in carbohydrates and high in fiber, which helps to minimize blood sugar spikes.
What is the best way to prepare pumpkin for a diabetic diet?
Roasting or steaming pumpkin without added sugars or high-carb ingredients is ideal to maintain its low glycemic properties.
Have a question about Pumpkin or any other topic related to diabetes?
Schedule a free session with one of our trained peer supporters who live with diabetes.
