With summer, markets fill with juicy, tasty lychees, a fruit loved by young and old. But people with diabetes need extra care with it, because while lychee is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, it also contains a fair amount of natural sugar. Eating a lot without thinking can suddenly raise blood sugar.

So can people with diabetes not eat lychee at all? Experts say it is not completely forbidden, but the amount and timing must be judged.

Lychee contains vitamin C, potassium, copper, antioxidants and some dietary fibre. It helps boost immunity and keeps the body refreshed in the heat. A cup of lychee usually contains natural sugars, calories, vitamin C, antioxidants and water. So although lychee is useful for quick energy in hot weather, eating too much can be risky for people with diabetes.

The main reason lychee tastes sweet is its natural sugar. Because insulin works less well in people with diabetes, excess sugar can build up in the blood. Experts say eating many lychees at once carries risks, especially for those whose diabetes is not under control.

Yes, in controlled amounts. Doctors and nutritionists generally advise people with diabetes not to eat too many lychees at once but to eat a limited amount. Because everyone's condition is different, it is important to talk to a doctor for personal advice.

Many studies have found that eating too many lychees on an empty stomach can create a risk of blood sugar suddenly falling, a problem seen more in malnourished children. So lychee should not be eaten alone in the morning without other food, and eating it on an empty stomach can also be risky for people with diabetes.

Those whose blood sugar fluctuates a lot, who take insulin, who are overweight, or who have kidney or heart disease should consult a doctor before eating lychee.

Lychee is tasty and nutritious, but for people with diabetes it is not a fruit to eat "as much as you like". With the right amount, the right time and a controlled diet it can still be enjoyed, and eaten sensibly, this favourite summer fruit can be a safe pleasure for people with diabetes too.

Source: Jagonews24. First published in Bengali on The Agro News.