Can people with diabetes eat plums?

Feb 20, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I have diabetes, and recently I've been craving plums a lot. I'm wondering whether this might affect my health. May I ask if I can eat them?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Feng

Generally speaking, people with diabetes can eat plums, but it is recommended to consume them in moderation.

Plums are a nutrient-rich fruit containing beneficial components such as vitamin C and dietary fiber. Additionally, plums have a low glycemic index, meaning they release sugar more slowly during digestion, resulting in a smaller impact on blood sugar levels. Therefore, when diabetic patients have well-controlled blood sugar levels—maintaining within the target range recommended by their doctor—eating plums in moderation is acceptable.

Before consuming plums, diabetic patients should evaluate their current blood sugar control. If blood sugar levels have been unstable or fluctuating significantly recently, it is advisable to temporarily reduce or avoid plum consumption to prevent further impact on blood glucose levels. After consumption, blood sugar changes should be closely monitored to ensure they do not cause a significant rise in blood glucose. However, plums should not be consumed if the individual has an allergy to them.

In daily diet, it is recommended to focus on balanced nutrition and proper food combinations, while also paying attention to sugar content and glycemic index, to better control blood sugar levels.