Eating mangoes on Akshaya Tritiya is a tradition at many homes, it is that time that we finally get to taste the fruit we have been eagerly awaiting all year long. Consequently, the joy derived from it is truly unique. However, for those suffering from diabetes, the struggle is of a different nature entirely.
While they yearn to eat mangoes, they are simultaneously plagued by the anxiety that doing so might cause their blood sugar levels to spike. As a result, they either choose to abstain from eating mangoes altogether or consume them while harboring feelings of guilt. If you wish to avoid both these scenarios and enjoy mangoes with a completely free mind, keep the following points in mind before you start indulging.
What precautions should individuals with diabetes take when eating mangoes?
1. Experts suggest that if you wish to enjoy mangoes despite having diabetes, you must adhere to certain specific guidelines. Specifically, rather than consuming mango-based preparations such as Aamras-Puri (mango pulp with fried bread) or mango milkshakes it is far more beneficial to eat a whole mango as a snack between two main meals, whenever you feel hungry.
2. Alternatively, if you are planning to exercise, consume your mango either before or after your workout session. This approach helps ensure that the calories ingested from the mango are burned off immediately, thereby preventing both weight gain and a rise in blood sugar levels.
3. Eat your mango either by slicing it or by sucking on the whole fruit. Avoid consuming *Aamras* (mango pulp) that has been processed in a blender. Make a conscious effort to consume the fruit in its natural, unprocessed form.
4. If you absolutely must include Aamras in your main meal, reduce your intake of *Roti* (flatbread). Completely abstain from eating rice, and ensure that your meal includes legumes or a salad. Begin your meal by eating the legumes and salad first, and only then proceed to eat the Aamras.
5. You should strictly avoid eating mangoes at night. Consume mangoes only during the daytime. Furthermore, if a diabetic's blood sugar levels are very high, first bring them back to normal, and then enjoy the mangoes in the manner described above.