Does eggplant raise blood sugar levels?
Disease description:
I have three highs (referring to high blood pressure, high blood lipids, and high blood sugar), among which my blood sugar is the highest. However, I am a picky eater and prefer to eat eggplant. May I ask, does eggplant raise blood sugar?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Eggplant, as a low-sugar and low-calorie vegetable, is beneficial for blood sugar control.
The impact of eggplant on blood sugar mainly depends on its glycemic index (GI). The GI value of eggplant is approximately 15 to 25, meaning it belongs to the category of low-GI foods. These foods generally do not cause sharp fluctuations in blood sugar levels; rather, they lead to slower and smaller increases in blood glucose, helping maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Eggplant is rich in dietary fiber, which can help delay the absorption of sugar from food, thus contributing to stable blood sugar levels. In addition, eggplant contains antioxidants and minerals that are beneficial to health.
The cooking method of eggplant can also affect its glycemic impact. It is recommended to use low-fat and light cooking methods such as stir-frying with minimal oil or steaming, avoiding deep-frying or adding excessive sugar, to reduce fat and sugar intake and further control glycemic response.
It is important to note that the effect of any food depends on individual health conditions and portion sizes. For individuals with diabetes or poor blood sugar control, although eggplant itself does not significantly raise blood sugar levels, maintaining an overall balanced diet remains crucial.
