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October 26, 2023
September 19, 2024
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Honeydew, often celebrated for its refreshing sweetness and juicy texture, is a member of the melon family known for its rich content of vitamins and minerals. While frequently recognized for its delightful taste and hydrating properties, its impact on blood sugar levels, as indicated by its low glycemic index, is often overlooked. 

Honeydew is not only a rich source of vitamins C and B6, but it also contains essential nutrients like potassium and folate, making it a valuable addition to a balanced diet.¹ Understanding the interplay between its nutritional profile and low glycemic index can provide critical insights into its potential benefits for individuals managing diabetes and those aiming to maintain stable blood sugar levels.

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Glycemic Index Table

Based on the provided information, the glycemic index (GI) of honeydew melon is approximately 65, which falls within the medium range.² Additionally, for a serving size of 100g, the carbohydrate content is roughly 8 grams.¹ To calculate the glycemic load (GL) per serving, the formula GL = (GI x Carbohydrate content per serving) / 100 can be used. Therefore, the GL per serving for honeydew melon is approximately 5.2. 

Cooking can affect foods' glycemic index, but honeydew melon, which is commonly consumed raw, remains largely stable when consumed without cooking. 

Understanding the glycemic index of honeydew melon is crucial for individuals, especially those managing their blood sugar levels, as it provides insights into how this fruit may impact their overall glycemic response. The carbohydrate content and glycemic load per serving can help individuals make informed dietary choices and manage their carbohydrate intake more effectively, contributing to better glycemic control.

Glycemic Index

65

Serving Size

100g

Carbohydrate* per Serving (g)

8 g

GL per Serving

5.00

Nutritional Facts

Honeydew is a nutrient-dense fruit with various health benefits due to its rich nutritional profile. It is an excellent source of vitamin C, providing about 30% of the daily recommended intake per 100 grams, which supports the immune system and promotes skin health.¹ 

Moreover, honeydew contains significant amounts of potassium, an essential mineral for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. Honeydew also provides notable quantities of vitamin B6 and fiber, contributing to overall well-being.¹

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

Calories

36 kcal

Carbs

8 g

Protein

0.54 g

Fiber

0.8 g

Cholesterol

0 mg

Vitamins

A (3 µg), B6 (0.09 mg), C (18 mg).

Sodium

18 mg

Total Fat

0.14 g

Is Honeydew Good for Weight Loss?

Honeydew can be a beneficial addition to a weight loss diet due to its low-calorie and high water and fiber content, promoting satiety and aiding in appetite control. Its sweet taste can also serve as a healthier alternative to sugary snacks, helping to satisfy cravings without significantly increasing calorie intake. 

Furthermore, the presence of essential nutrients, such as vitamins C and B6, and minerals like potassium and folate, can support overall health and well-being during weight loss efforts.¹ Integrating honeydew into a well-balanced diet that emphasizes whole, nutrient-dense foods can contribute to a sustainable and effective weight management plan.

Is Honeydew Safe for People Living with Diabetes?

Honeydew can be considered a safe and beneficial fruit option for individuals living with diabetes owing to its relatively low glycemic index and moderate carbohydrate content. According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), incorporating honeydew as part of a well-balanced diet can contribute to managing blood sugar levels. Its high water and fiber content may also help regulate blood glucose levels and promote satiety, which can aid in controlling appetite and preventing overconsumption of high-glycemic foods. However, it is crucial for individuals with diabetes to monitor their portion sizes and overall carbohydrate intake and to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized dietary recommendations.

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Allergies

Allergies to honeydew are relatively uncommon, but they can manifest as oral allergy syndrome (OAS) in individuals sensitive to certain proteins in the melon. Symptoms of OAS may include itching and swelling of the lips, mouth, and throat, along with possible irritation of the skin.³ While severe allergic reactions are rare, individuals with a history of oral allergy syndrome or other food allergies should exercise caution and consult a healthcare professional if they experience any adverse reactions after consuming honeydew.

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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 Honeydew Spike Insulin?

Honeydew melon has a low glycemic index and does not typically cause a significant spike in insulin levels. It is a fruit that is relatively low in carbohydrates and contains dietary fiber, which helps regulate blood sugar levels. However, individual responses may vary, and portion control is still important when managing blood sugar levels.

Is Honeydew Low Glycemic?

Yes, honeydew is considered a low glycemic fruit with a glycemic index of 65 or lower.

Can People Living with Diabetes Eat Honeydew?

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

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References

  1. USDA FoodData Central. (2019, April 1). Food Details - Melons, honeydew, raw. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/169911/nutrients 
  2. The University of Sydney. (2023, May 1). Glycemic Index – Glycemic Index Research and GI Newshttps://glycemicindex.com/
  3. American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology. (2020, September 28). Oral allergy syndrome. https://www.aaaai.org/tools-for-the-public/conditions-library/allergies/oral-allergy-syndrome-(oas) 

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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