Raw jackfruit boasts a diabetes-friendly glycemic index, thanks to its fiber and protein content that slows down digestion and promotes a gradual release of glucose into the bloodstream. This mechanism helps stabilize blood glucose levels and contributes to a feeling of fullness, preventing overeating and supporting healthy weight management," explains Dr. V Mohan, Chairman of Dr Mohan's Diabetes Specialities Centre in Chennai.

Kerala-based James Joseph has recently patented jackfruit flour, which is gaining attention as the next superfood. By pounding dried, unripe jackfruit seeds and strands into a high-fiber mix, Joseph offers a suitable dietary option for individuals living with diabetes. Adding just one tablespoon of this flour per meal to rice or wheat flour significantly reduces the caloric load and expands gluten-free alternatives. Dr. Mohan emphasizes the importance of including jackfruit in one's diet, even without the flour, as it aids in diabetes management. He believes that dietary interventions play a crucial role in controlling diabetes and reversing prediabetes.

Dr. Mohan's own studies demonstrate that substituting 50 percent of rice flour with raw jackfruit powder reduces the glycemic index and glycemic load of the meal, ensuring stable blood glucose levels. It's important to note that the flour is derived from green, unripe jackfruit rather than the ripe fruit, which, similar to mangoes, can cause spikes in blood sugar levels. Incorporating raw jackfruit flour into meals is unlikely to raise blood sugar levels and can help decrease the consumption of white rice-based products.

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled human trial conducted at the Government Institute of Medical Sciences in Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh, revealed the therapeutic potential of green jackfruit flour in improving glycemic control among individuals with Type 2 diabetes. Test subjects consumed the green jackfruit flour meal three times a day (totaling 30 grams) for 12 weeks. The study highlighted that the fiber and protein content in green jackfruit slows down digestion, resulting in a gradual release of glucose in the intestinal tract, thereby stabilizing blood glucose levels. Furthermore, the fiber and protein components contribute to prolonged satiety and prevent overeating, supporting healthy weight management," explained Dr. Mohan.

Another study conducted by Sydney University's Glycemic Index Research Service found that consuming unripe jackfruit can help lower blood sugar levels. The study replaced cooked rice or two wheat chapatis with 30 grams of dehydrated unripe jackfruit. Participants reported increased feelings of satiety as well. While jackfruit is generally considered a beneficial plant food for individuals with diabetes, moderation is still advised due to its placement in the middle of the glycemic spectrum. "Jackfruit has a medium glycemic index (GI) of 50-60 and a medium glycemic load (GL) of 13-18, making it suitable for individuals with diabetes. It is rich in fiber, flavonoids, B vitamins, Vitamin C, and other nutrients that contribute to long-term blood sugar control. The slightly unripe jackfruit contains high levels of resistant starch, which acts as soluble fiber and adds bulk to food. During the ripening process, this resistant starch converts into glucose. However, in unripe jackfruit, this carbohydrate is difficult to break down, offering the qualities of a vegetable. The reduced amount of glucose in this form leads to considerably reduced absorption. The fibers in jackfruit promote a healthy gut by supporting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria that contribute to immune system training and prevent harmful bodily functions. The conversion of fibers or resistant starch into short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) by bacteria plays a crucial role in preventing chronic diseases," clarified Dr. Mohan.