Diabetes food guide
What can diabetics eat and drink? Quick answers on carbs, glycemic index and portion sizes for type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
These labels cover this guide’s topic. Check your own profile for a personalized answer.
16 results
Good choices
Can diabetics eat bananas?
Yes. A small or slightly under-ripe banana fits well in a diabetes meal plan; its fibre slows the sugar rise.
LOOKS SUITABLECan diabetics eat oatmeal?
Yes. Rolled or steel-cut oats are a good high-fibre breakfast; avoid sweetened instant packets.
LOOKS SUITABLECan diabetics eat watermelon?
Yes, in normal portions. Watermelon has a high GI but so much water that a cup has only about 11 g of carbs.
LOOKS SUITABLECan diabetics eat eggs?
Yes. Eggs contain almost no carbohydrate and provide protein that helps keep blood sugar stable.
LOOKS SUITABLECan diabetics eat peanut butter?
Yes. Natural peanut butter is low in carbs and its fat and protein slow glucose absorption.
In moderation: watch the portion
Can diabetics eat honey?
Only in small amounts. Honey is still sugar and raises blood glucose about as much as table sugar — it is not a diabetic-friendly substitute.
CHECK FIRSTCan diabetics eat rice?
Yes, in controlled portions. White rice spikes blood sugar quickly; brown, basmati or cooled rice are better choices.
CHECK FIRSTCan diabetics eat potatoes?
In moderation. Potatoes are starchy and high-GI; portion size and preparation make a big difference.
CHECK FIRSTCan diabetics eat grapes?
Yes, in a measured portion. Grapes are easy to overeat; about 15 small grapes is one carb serving.
CHECK FIRSTCan diabetics eat pasta?
Yes, in sensible portions. Al dente and whole-wheat pasta raise blood sugar more slowly than overcooked white pasta.
CHECK FIRSTCan diabetics eat bread?
Yes, choose wholegrain, rye or sourdough and watch portions. White bread raises blood sugar quickly.
CHECK FIRSTCan diabetics eat dark chocolate?
Yes, a small piece of 70%+ dark chocolate is fine as an occasional treat.
CHECK FIRSTCan diabetics drink alcohol?
In moderation, with food. Alcohol can cause low blood sugar hours later, especially with insulin or sulfonylureas.
CHECK FIRSTCan diabetics eat dates?
Only one or two. Dates are very sugar-dense, though their fibre keeps the GI moderate.
Limit or avoid
Can diabetics drink fruit juice?
Best avoided for everyday drinking. Juice delivers sugar quickly without the fibre of whole fruit — but it's useful for treating a low.
BETTER AVOIDCan diabetics drink regular soda?
Avoid regular soda. A single can contains around 35–40 g of sugar and causes a sharp spike.
General information based on public health guidance, not medical advice. Ask your doctor or dietitian.