Can people with high blood sugar eat watermelon?
Sep 06, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Pan Yongyuan
Introduction
Individuals with hyperglycemia who do not yet meet the diagnostic criteria for diabetes—or who are in the early stages of diabetes—typically have mild disease and may generally consume watermelon. However, if hyperglycemia is poorly controlled and has progressed to a more serious condition—such as established type 2 diabetes accompanied by severe symptoms like excessive thirst and increased appetite—watermelon consumption is typically not recommended.
People with high blood sugar can generally eat watermelon if their condition is mild, but only in small amounts. However, if the high blood sugar is severe, they usually should not eat watermelon.
1. Can eat watermelon
Individuals with high blood sugar who have not yet met the diagnostic criteria for diabetes or are in the early stages of diabetes—thus having a mild condition—can generally consume watermelon. When hyperglycemia is mild, moderate intake of sugar typically does not worsen the condition or affect treatment outcomes. However, it is recommended to drink an appropriate amount of water after eating watermelon to promote sugar metabolism.
2. Should not eat watermelon
People with poorly controlled high blood sugar, especially those whose condition has progressed significantly—for example, developing type 2 diabetes accompanied by severe symptoms such as excessive thirst and increased appetite—should usually avoid eating watermelon. Watermelon is a fruit relatively high in sugar content, which may exacerbate hyperglycemia and increase the risk of diabetic complications such as ketoacidosis and diabetic nephropathy.
