Jackfruit and Diabetes: What Science Reveals About Blood Sugar Control
Healthful Vitality | 2/8/2025 | Jackfruit and Diabetes: What Science Reveals About Blood Sugar Control.
Jackfruit, a tropical fruit with a unique texture often used as a meat substitute 1, has garnered attention for its potential benefits for people with diabetes. Notably, jackfruit and diabetes have become a hot topic in nutritional research, with growing evidence suggesting that green jackfruit may be a natural weapon against diabetes. Unlike ripe jackfruit, green jackfruit is lower in sugar and high in dietary fiber, resistant starch, and essential phytonutrients, which help regulate blood sugar levels. Studies indicate that jackfruit flour can significantly reduce post-meal glucose spikes, making it a promising addition to diabetes-friendly diets.
Research reveals that compounds in jackfruit improve insulin sensitivity and slow carbohydrate absorption, preventing rapid blood sugar fluctuations. A study published in the Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice Journal found that participants who consumed green jackfruit flour experienced improved glycemic control and lower fasting blood sugar levels.
With the global rise in diabetes, dietary solutions like jackfruit-based foods are gaining attention. As more studies support its blood sugar-regulating potential, jackfruit and diabetes research continues to highlight the power of plant-based nutrition. Jackfruit and Diabetes: What Science Reveals About Blood Sugar Control highlights the growing research on how jackfruit may naturally support blood sugar regulation and diabetes management. This article explores the scientific evidence on how jackfruit impacts blood sugar levels, examining its glycemic index (GI), carbohydrate content, and the findings of clinical trials.
Also Read: 5 Powerful Fruits for Diabetics: What Science Really Says
How Does Jackfruit Impact Blood Sugar Levels?
Jackfruit does contain natural sugars, which can raise blood sugar levels. However, it also boasts fiber and protein, both of which help slow digestion and prevent blood sugar spikes 1. The GI of jackfruit is generally considered moderate, ranging from 50-60 1. The GI measures how quickly a food raises blood sugar levels compared to pure glucose, which has a GI of 100. Jackfruit’s moderate GI indicates that it won’t cause a rapid increase in blood sugar compared to high-GI foods like white bread (GI of 75) 1.
One study found that all groups of a 70% ethanol extract of jackfruit seeds could reduce blood glucose levels. The most significant decrease occurred with a 400 mg/kg BW dose, which was 61.73%, comparable to the positive control glibenclamide 2. This suggests that jackfruit seeds, in particular, may have potential for blood sugar control.
Jackfruit’s low GI, combined with its fiber, protein, and antioxidant content, may contribute to better blood sugar control 3. These components work together to slow digestion, prevent blood sugar spikes, and promote balanced blood sugar levels.
Green Jackfruit: Your Blood Sugar’s New Best Friend?
Green jackfruit is gaining recognition as a natural ally in diabetes management, backed by emerging scientific evidence. Recent research highlights its potential to improve blood sugar control through simple dietary adjustments. A notable study revealed that consuming 30g of green jackfruit flour daily significantly reduced HbA1c levels in individuals with Type 2 diabetes over a 12-week period. Participants experienced a decrease in HbA1c from 7.23% to 6.98%, while those in the placebo group saw a slight increase.
The benefits of green jackfruit stem from its high fiber and protein content, which slows down digestion and promotes a gradual release of glucose into the bloodstream. This helps stabilize blood sugar levels, preventing rapid spikes and crashes. Green jackfruit flour also boasts a lower glycemic index compared to common staples like rice and wheat, making it a healthier alternative for daily consumption.
Beyond HbA1c, studies have observed improvements in both fasting and postprandial plasma glucose levels with green jackfruit flour intake, showcasing its multifaceted impact on glycemic control.
Clinical Trials on the Impact of Jackfruit on Blood Sugar Levels in Humans
While much of the research on jackfruit and blood sugar control has been conducted on animals, there have been a few clinical trials involving humans. One noteworthy study, conducted at the American Diabetes Association, investigated the effects of green jackfruit flour on people with type 2 diabetes 4.
This study involved 40 participants (24 men and 16 women) who consumed 30 grams of powdered green jackfruit daily for 12 weeks 4. The results showed a significant reduction in average hemoglobin A1c levels, from 7.23% to 6.98% 4. Hemoglobin A1c is a measure of long-term blood sugar control. The study also found improvements in fasting and postprandial (after-meal) blood sugar levels 4. Notably, just 30 grams of green jackfruit powder a day led to these significant reductions in blood sugar levels 4.
Another clinical trial, published in the journal Diabetes, evaluated the efficacy of green jackfruit flour as part of a daily meal plan for people with type 2 diabetes 5. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study involved 40 participants who were randomly assigned to receive either 30 grams of jackfruit flour or a placebo daily for 12 weeks. The jackfruit flour replaced an equal volume of rice or wheat flour in their meals. The study found that the group consuming jackfruit flour had a significantly greater reduction in HbA1c, fasting blood glucose, and postprandial blood glucose compared to the placebo group 5.
These clinical trials suggest that incorporating green jackfruit into the diet may have positive effects on blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes. However, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms and long-term effects.
Research on Jackfruit and Blood Sugar
To further understand the relationship between jackfruit and blood sugar control, researchers have conducted various studies. One study focused on the effects of a 70% ethanol extract from jackfruit seeds in lowering blood glucose levels in gestationally diabetic rats 2. The study involved Sprague Dawley strain pregnant female rats divided into six groups: a normal control group, a negative control group, a positive control group, and various dose groups (100 mg/kg BW, 200 mg/kg BW, 400 mg/kg BW). After the rats became pregnant, they were induced with streptozotocin to cause hyperglycemia. Blood glucose levels were measured on the 14th day after treatment, and the data were analyzed using a one-way ANOVA test followed by the HSD Tukey test 2.
While this study provided valuable insights, it’s important to acknowledge that, at that stage of the research, there was a lack of clinical studies on humans 2. This highlights the need for further research to confirm the findings in human subjects.
Research-Based Chart: The Impact of Green Jackfruit on Blood Sugar Control
Several studies have explored the potential of green jackfruit in diabetes management, particularly its effects on blood sugar regulation. Below is a summary of key research findings on how green jackfruit impacts glycemic control:
| Study | Research Focus | Key Findings | Conclusion |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diabetes Research & Clinical Practice (2021) | Effect of Jackfruit Flour on Blood Sugar | Participants consuming green jackfruit flour saw a 20-25% reduction in post-meal blood glucose levels. | Jackfruit flour may help manage blood sugar spikes. |
| International Journal of Food Sciences & Nutrition (2020) | Glycemic Index of Green Jackfruit | Green jackfruit has a low glycemic index (GI: 50-55), compared to white rice (GI: 70-90). | Lower glycemic impact, better for diabetes management. |
| Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2019) | Phytonutrients in Jackfruit | High levels of flavonoids and antioxidants improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation. | May support long-term diabetes control. |
These research findings highlight the promising role of green jackfruit in diabetes management. With its low glycemic index, high fiber content, and insulin-sensitizing properties, green jackfruit could serve as a valuable dietary addition for individuals looking to stabilize blood sugar levels naturally. Future studies will further explore its long-term benefits, but current evidence supports its inclusion in diabetes-friendly meal plans.
What is the Glycemic Index (GI) of Jackfruit?
The glycemic index (GI) of jackfruit is generally considered moderate, typically falling between 50 and 60 1. However, some sources report slightly higher values, such as 63 7 or 75 9. This variation may be attributed to several factors, including the ripeness of the fruit, the preparation method, and regional differences in cultivation 9. For instance, ripe jackfruit tends to have a higher GI than unripe jackfruit due to its higher sugar content 10.
Jackfruit contains two main types of sugars: glucose and fructose 6. These sugars contribute to the overall carbohydrate content and influence the fruit’s glycemic impact.
It’s important to remember that the GI is just one factor to consider when evaluating a food’s effect on blood sugar. The glycemic load (GL), which takes into account the portion size and carbohydrate content, provides a more comprehensive picture. Jackfruit has a moderate GL of 13-18 1.
What is the Carbohydrate Content of Jackfruit?
The carbohydrate content of jackfruit can vary depending on the ripeness and form of the fruit.
| Form of Jackfruit | Carbohydrate Content (per 100g) |
|---|---|
| Young jackfruit | 9.4 – 11.5g |
| Ripe jackfruit | 16.0 – 25.4g |
| Raw, sliced jackfruit | Approximately 38g |
| Canned jackfruit (drained of syrup) | Approximately 42g |
| Jackfruit (general) | 23g |
| Jackfruit seeds | 37.4% – 42.5% |
This table summarizes the carbohydrate content of jackfruit in different forms, based on the available data 10. As you can see, the carbohydrate content can range significantly.
To put this into perspective, let’s compare jackfruit to other tropical fruits. One hundred grams of mango contains about 15 grams of carbohydrates, while the same amount of banana contains around 23 grams. This shows that jackfruit falls within a similar range of carbohydrate content compared to other popular tropical fruits.
Nutritional Value of Jackfruit
Beyond its impact on blood sugar, jackfruit offers a range of nutritional benefits. It is a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants 1. One cup (150 grams) of jackfruit pieces provides:
- Calories: 157
- Protein: 2.8 grams (6% of the Reference Daily Intake)
- Fat: 1.1 grams (1% RDI)
- Carbohydrates: 38.3 grams (14% RDI)
- Fiber: 2.5 grams (9% RDI)
Jackfruit is an excellent source of vitamin B6 and vitamin C 1. These nutrients play vital roles in energy production, immunity, and preventing chronic inflammation, which can contribute to conditions like heart disease and type 2 diabetes 1.
In terms of macronutrients, jackfruit comprises mostly carbohydrates (approximately 92% of its calories) 3. The remaining calories come from protein and a small amount of fat 3.
Potential Interactions and Considerations
While jackfruit can be a healthy addition to a diabetic diet, it’s important to be aware of potential interactions. Jackfruit might lower blood sugar levels, and when taken with diabetes medications, it could cause blood sugar to drop too low 14. Therefore, it’s crucial for people with diabetes who are taking medication to monitor their blood sugar closely when consuming jackfruit and to consult with their healthcare provider about any necessary adjustments to their medication dosage.
Conclusion
Jackfruit can be a valuable component of a balanced diet for people with diabetes. Its moderate GI and GL, along with its fiber, protein, and antioxidant content, suggest that it won’t cause drastic spikes in blood sugar levels and may even contribute to long-term blood sugar control. Furthermore, jackfruit can be a satisfying and nutritious way to address sweet cravings, provide essential vitamins and minerals, and support healthy digestion 6. Its versatility allows it to be incorporated into various dishes, from savory curries to sweet desserts.
While the existing research on jackfruit and diabetes is promising, more human studies are needed to fully understand its long-term effects and optimal consumption guidelines for people with diabetes. It’s always advisable to monitor portion sizes and blood sugar levels, especially when first adding jackfruit to a diabetes meal plan. Consulting with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian can provide personalized guidance on how to safely and effectively include jackfruit in a diabetic diet. As research continues to unfold, Jackfruit and Diabetes: What Science Reveals About Blood Sugar Control reinforces the potential of this tropical fruit in promoting healthier blood sugar levels.
Reference
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