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November 9, 2023
September 19, 2024
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Apricots, known for their delicate balance of sweetness and tanginess, have long been cherished for their rich flavor and nutritional benefits. Notably, this delectable fruit is a hidden gem for those carefully monitoring their blood sugar levels. With a glycemic index of around 34, apricots are considered a low-glycemic fruit, making them a favorable choice for individuals with diabetes seeking to maintain stable blood sugar levels. 

Furthermore, apricots are a rich source of dietary fiber and essential vitamins like A and C, promoting digestive health and bolstering the immune system. The nutrient profile of apricots showcases their significant contributions to a balanced diet, especially for those prioritizing blood sugar management.¹

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Glycemic Index Table

A serving size of 100g of apricots, the calculations are as follows:

Glycemic Index (GI): The glycemic index of apricots is estimated to be 34, indicating that consuming apricots is less likely to cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels compared to high-glycemic foods.² This low GI is beneficial for individuals concerned about managing their blood sugar levels. 

Carbohydrate per Serving: A 100g serving of apricots contains approximately 9g of carbohydrates.¹ Despite being relatively low in carbohydrates, it is important for individuals with diabetes to consume apricots in moderation, considering the overall carbohydrate content of their diet.

Glycemic Load (GL) per Serving: With a low GI and moderate carbohydrate content, the glycemic load of apricots per 100g serving is approximately 3.06. This suggests that the overall impact of apricots on blood sugar levels is minimal, making them a suitable addition to a balanced diet for individuals with diabetes.

It is important to note that while cooking methods may slightly alter the glycemic index of foods, the impact on apricots is minimal, as they are commonly consumed fresh. This information helps in understanding the potential implications of incorporating apricots into a diabetic diet, emphasizing their relatively low impact on blood sugar levels compared to other high-glycemic fruits and foods.

Glycemic Index

34

Serving Size

100g

Carbohydrate* per Serving (g)

9 g

GL per Serving

3.06

Nutritional Facts

Apricots boast a rich nutritional profile, being a great source of vitamins such as vitamin A and vitamin C, which play vital roles in supporting immune function and promoting healthy skin. Additionally, they contain significant amounts of dietary fiber, contributing to improved digestive health and aiding in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. 

The nutritional information below is for 100 g of apricots.¹

Calories

48 kcal

Carbs

9 g

Protein

1.4 g

Fiber

2 g

Cholesterol

0 mg

Vitamins

A (96 µg), B6 (0.06 mg), C (10 mg).

Sodium

1 mg

Total Fat

0.4 g

Is Apricot Good for Weight Loss?

Apricots can be a valuable asset for individuals aiming to achieve weight loss goals due to their low-calorie content and high dietary fiber, which promotes a feeling of fullness and aids in curbing excessive calorie consumption. Additionally, their natural sweetness can serve as a healthier alternative to processed sugary snacks, assisting in reducing overall calorie intake and supporting a balanced diet. Incorporating apricots into a well-structured meal plan, coupled with regular physical activity, can contribute to sustainable weight management.

Is Apricot Safe for People Living with Diabetes?

Apricots can be a safe and beneficial addition to the diet for individuals with diabetes, primarily due to their low glycemic index and moderate carbohydrate content. The American Diabetes Association suggests incorporating a variety of fruits, including apricots, as part of a well-balanced meal plan, emphasizing portion control and overall carbohydrate intake management. Furthermore, the dietary fiber content in apricots can help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, making them a valuable component of a diabetic-friendly diet. 

It is crucial for individuals with diabetes to consult with healthcare providers or registered dietitians to determine appropriate portion sizes and ensure that apricots fit within their individualized dietary guidelines. The inclusion of trusted sources like the American Diabetes Association provides a comprehensive understanding of how apricots can be safely integrated into a diabetic diet, emphasizing the importance of moderation and overall dietary balance for optimal management of blood sugar levels.

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Allergies

Although relatively rare, allergies to apricots can manifest in various ways, ranging from mild oral allergy syndrome symptoms, such as itching or swelling of the lips and mouth, to more severe reactions like hives or anaphylaxis. Individuals with known sensitivities to birch pollen might be at a higher risk of developing an allergic reaction to apricots due to the presence of proteins that can trigger cross-reactivity. It is imperative for those with suspected apricot allergies to consult with a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.

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FAQs

What is Glycemic Index?

The glycemic index (GI) is a measure of how quickly a carbohydrate-containing food raises blood sugar levels compared to a reference food, usually glucose. It ranks foods on a scale from 0 to 100, with higher values indicating a faster rise in blood sugar. The glycemic index (GI) scale is typically categorized as follows: Low GI [55 or less], Medium GI [56-69], High GI [70 or higher]. Foods with a high glycemic index digest rapidly and can cause dramatic fluctuations in blood glucose or glucose spikes.

What is Glycemic Load?

Glycemic load (GL) takes into account both the quality (glycemic index) and quantity (carbohydrate content) of carbohydrates in a specific serving of food. It is a measure of how much a particular food will raise blood sugar levels. GL is calculated by multiplying the glycemic index of a food by its carbohydrate content and dividing it by 100. It provides a more accurate representation of the overall impact of a food on blood sugar compared to the glycemic index alone.

Does Apricot Spike Insulin?

There is no scientific evidence to suggest that apricots spike insulin levels. Apricots are a low glycemic index fruit, meaning they have a minimal impact on blood sugar levels. In fact, apricots may even have a beneficial effect on insulin sensitivity due to their high fiber and antioxidant content. However, it is important to note that individual responses to food can vary, and people with diabetes or other medical conditions should consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to their diet.

Is Apricot Low Glycemic?

Yes, apricot is considered a low glycemic fruit with a glycemic index (GI) of 34.

Can People Living with Diabetes Eat Apricot?

Yes, people living with diabetes can eat apricots in moderation as they are low in glycemic index and high in fiber. However, it is important to monitor blood sugar levels and consume apricots as part of a balanced diet.

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References

  1. USDA FoodData Central. (2019, April 1). Food Details - Apricots, raw. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/171697/nutrients 
  2. The University of Sydney. (2023, May 1). Glycemic Index – Glycemic Index Research and GI Newshttps://glycemicindex.com/

About the author

It is a long established fact that a reader will be distracted by the readable content of a page when looking at its layout.

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About the author

Brittany Barry is a national board-certified health coach and NASM-certified personal trainer based in South Carolina.

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Please note: The Signos team is committed to sharing insightful and actionable health articles that are backed by scientific research, supported by expert reviews, and vetted by experienced health editors. The Signos blog is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, promptly contact your professional healthcare provider. Read more about our editorial process and content philosophy here.

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