Can patients with high blood sugar eat sweet potatoes and pumpkin?
Disease description:
My blood sugar has been a bit high lately. I usually enjoy eating sweet potatoes and pumpkin, but I'm afraid that eating them might cause a sharp increase in blood sugar. Can people with high blood sugar eat sweet potatoes and pumpkin?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Feng
In general, patients with high blood sugar can eat sweet potatoes and pumpkin, but they should control the amount consumed.
The carbohydrates in sweet potatoes and pumpkin are mainly starch, which belongs to complex carbohydrates. These are digested and absorbed more slowly, thus having a relatively smaller impact on blood glucose levels. The rich dietary fiber content also helps delay digestion and absorption in the intestines, aiding in maintaining stable blood sugar levels. Therefore, moderate consumption of sweet potatoes and pumpkin is acceptable. They can generally be consumed along with vegetables and protein-rich foods, which can further slow the rise in blood sugar.
However, sweet potatoes contain a certain amount of carbohydrates, and excessive consumption may lead to blood sugar fluctuations. Pumpkin also contains a certain amount of sugar and starch; patients with high blood sugar should control their intake and avoid consuming large amounts as snacks. After consumption, monitor blood sugar changes to understand your body's response and adjust your dietary plan accordingly.
Patients with high blood sugar should also maintain healthy eating habits and lifestyle practices, such as regular sleep patterns and appropriate physical activity, to better control blood sugar levels.
