Is pomegranate a low-sugar fruit?

Dec 28, 2021 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I’m currently on a weight-loss diet and avoid high-sugar foods. Lately, however, I’ve been craving pomegranates. Are pomegranates considered a low-sugar fruit?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yuan Qiaoying
Pomegranates are not considered low-sugar fruits. Their sugar content ranges from approximately 13% to 17%, classifying them as fruits with a low-to-moderate glycemic index (GI), and their sugar content is low to moderate. Specifically, 100 g of pomegranate contains about 10–20 g of sugar, with a glycemic index of 31 and a glycemic load of 3. Thus, pomegranates have only a modest effect on blood glucose levels, though they can still cause a rise in blood sugar. For individuals with diabetes, pomegranates are classified as a fruit with a moderate GI; when blood glucose is well-controlled, they may be consumed in moderation—such as between meals, before bedtime, or after exercise—but blood glucose levels should be closely monitored. In summary, pomegranates are not low-sugar fruits, yet moderate consumption is generally safe for most people.