Which type of almond is good for diabetes?

Jul 27, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I would like to know which type of almonds are good for diabetes, to buy some for my grandma.

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi

For diabetic patients, bitter almonds are a more suitable choice. This is because bitter almonds contain relatively less sugar and starch; their main components are oils, proteins, and unsaturated fatty acids, which have minimal impact on blood glucose levels in diabetic patients. Additionally, bitter almonds also possess certain medicinal values, such as moistening the lungs and relieving asthma, potentially alleviating respiratory symptoms that may accompany diabetes.

However, bitter almonds contain amygdalin, a substance that produces hydrogen cyanide after enzymatic hydrolysis and has certain toxicity. Therefore, when consuming bitter almonds, it is essential to strictly control the quantity. It is recommended that a single intake should not exceed 9 grams to avoid potential poisoning reactions.

Therefore, diabetic patients can choose to consume moderate amounts of bitter almonds but must pay attention to portion control and ensure the almonds come from a safe and reliable source. Additionally, diabetic patients are advised to follow the guidance of doctors or dietitians in their daily diets and appropriately combine various foods to achieve the goal of controlling blood glucose and maintaining health.