{"id":629045,"date":"2024-08-05T09:30:41","date_gmt":"2024-08-05T13:30:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=629045"},"modified":"2025-08-11T14:22:15","modified_gmt":"2025-08-11T18:22:15","slug":"are-cherries-good-for-diabetics","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/are-cherries-good-for-diabetics\/","title":{"rendered":"Can you eat cherries if you have diabetes?"},"content":{"rendered":"

If you have Type 2 diabetes, your diet can play a significant role in managing the condition. That\u2019s because what you eat directly impacts your blood sugar levels and your overall health. A balanced <\/span>diabetes diet<\/span><\/a> should include a variety of nutrient-dense foods, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. Counting carbohydrates, exercising portion control, and limiting processed, sugary, and fatty foods are important ways to keep your blood glucose levels in a healthy range.<\/span><\/p>\n

According to the <\/span>American Diabetes Association<\/span>, cherries are a fruit individuals with diabetes can safely consume. Keep reading to learn more about the beneficial effects of adding cherries to your diabetes treatment plan.<\/span><\/p>\n

Can people with diabetes eat cherries?<\/span><\/h2>\n

Yes! Cherries are a nutritious fruit that can be part of a diabetes meal plan, says <\/span>Kelsey Costa<\/span>, RD, a registered dietitian at Examine. \u201cHowever, like most fruits, portion control is essential, as overconsumption can lead to spikes in blood sugar levels due to their natural sugar content,\u201d she says.<\/span><\/p>\n

Food pairing is another important component to consider, says <\/span>Michelle Routhenstein<\/span><\/a>, RD, registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator at EntirelyNourished.com.<\/span><\/p>\n

She recommends pairing cherries with healthy fats or protein\u2014like Greek yogurt or walnuts\u2014to help stabilize blood sugar.<\/span><\/p>\n

What\u2019s an appropriate portion size of cherries for people with diabetes? <\/span>A standard <\/span>serving<\/span><\/a> of cherries is about one cup or 154 grams<\/span>. Cherries are an excellent option for patients with diabetes as long as they\u2019re consumed in moderation.<\/span><\/p>\n

Your safest option is to <\/span>consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance on the optimal amount of cherries to consume daily.<\/span><\/p>\n

RELATED: <\/b>Does diabetes cause weight loss or gain?<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n

Are cherries good for diabetics?<\/span><\/h2>\n

Berries like strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries are often recommended for people with diabetes because they are low in sugar and high in fiber, which aids in blood sugar regulation, says Routhenstein. \u201cAll fruits (like cherries!) can be part of a heart- and diabetes-friendly diet when consumed in appropriate portions and paired strategically to help manage blood sugar levels,\u201d she says.<\/span><\/p>\n

In addition to fiber, cherries contain antioxidants like anthocyanins and other polyphenols that support heart health and manage blood sugar levels, says Routhenstein. According to research, they have the following beneficial effects:<\/span><\/p>\n

Anti-inflammatory benefits<\/span><\/h3>\n

Cherries are rich in anti-inflammatory compounds such as anthocyanins, <\/span>vitamin C<\/span><\/a>,\u00a0 and <\/span>quercetin<\/span><\/a>. Anthocyanins are a type of flavonoid that has been <\/span>shown<\/span><\/a> to reduce inflammation in the body, which is beneficial for managing diabetes and preventing related complications.<\/span><\/p>\n

For example, a <\/span>study<\/span><\/a> published in the <\/span>Journal of Nutrition<\/span><\/i> found that cherry consumption may reduce inflammation markers and improve metabolic health. Additionally, a 2018 <\/span>research review<\/span><\/a> concluded that cherry consumption decreased markers for oxidative stress, inflammation, and blood pressure.<\/span><\/p>\n

Blood sugar control<\/span><\/h3>\n

\u201cThe fiber and antioxidants in cherries may contribute to better blood sugar management, potentially improving insulin sensitivity and reducing post-meal blood sugar spikes,\u201d says Routhenstein. Cherries, in particular, might boost insulin production, promoting better blood sugar control, adds Costa<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Costa says that anthocyanins may lower blood glucose in the following ways:<\/span><\/p>\n