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Bilberry in diabetes mellitus type 1 and 2: benefit and harm
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025
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Benefits
The sugar content (fructose and glucose) in the berry does not exceed the amount of fiber, so there is no need to worry about their rapid absorption. 100 g of blackberries contain only 10 g of carbohydrates, so nothing prevents the patient from consuming 150-200 g of the dessert berry daily.
Blackberries contain vitamins A, C, B group and vitamin D, which reduces the likelihood of complications in diabetes, as it is considered a preventive measure against the development of atherosclerosis and hypertension. The berry is also rich in such a valuable microelement for the heart as potassium. But in addition to it, blackberries also contain other equally important minerals: calcium and magnesium, sodium and iron, i.e. all those substances that can benefit a diabetic, positively influencing the processes occurring in the body.
Fructose in berries is considered a natural sugar that does not require insulin production, so its presence does not put a strain on the pancreas. And glucose, although it is somewhat dangerous, is necessary for breathing, heart and muscle function, and thermoregulation. In addition, its metabolism is controlled by the fiber contained in blackberries.
Blackberries give diabetics a feeling of satiety without causing weight gain, which is often observed in type 2 diabetes. The diuretic effect of blackberry dishes helps combat edema syndrome, which is also characteristic of diabetes. The berries themselves do not significantly lower blood sugar levels, but they help remove harmful substances from the body, improve the functionality of the digestive system, strengthen the cardiovascular system and overall immunity.
During the fruit ripening season, diabetics can enjoy fresh berries and store them for future use (dry or freeze). Blackberries can be used to make delicious jam (the berries are covered with a sugar substitute for 7-8 hours, after which the resulting juice is brought to a boil and cooled slightly, the berries are added and cooked for a few more minutes over low heat) or jelly, using a safe substitute instead of the usual sugar.
In addition to berries, the diet of patients with diabetes can include infusions of the plant's leaves, as well as a decoction of the roots, which do not contain simple carbohydrates, but have all the same beneficial properties as berries.
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Contraindications
This is an incredibly healthy and tasty dessert, allowed for high blood sugar levels. But if the patient has diabetes and high acidity of gastric juice, it is not advisable to consume these rather sour berries fresh. However, as well as undiluted juice. Juice diluted with water for stomach and intestinal diseases can be consumed in small quantities (no more than 1 glass per day).
For people with individual intolerance to substances contained in blackberry berries and leaves, their use may cause allergic reactions, nausea, vomiting, and bowel disorders. In this case, you will have to exclude even such products from your diet.
Blackberries can provoke an exacerbation of kidney diseases, so a preliminary consultation with a doctor is required.