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Is it safe to eat pickles, papad and chutney in diabetes? Small things, but big impact
Samira Vishwas | August 19, 2026 10:25 AM CST

Lifestyle Desk – When it comes to controlling diabetes or blood sugar, first attention is given to rice, roti, bread, sweets and sweet beverages. But pickles, papad and chutney eaten in small quantities with daily meals are also a part of the diet. In such a situation, the question arises whether these things are completely harmful in diabetes? According to experts, it is not right to call any one food item good or bad just by its name. It is also important to pay attention to its ingredients, quantity and way of eating. Let us know its slogan in detail.

Extra sugar and salt may be hidden in pickles

The ingredients can vary greatly in different pickle recipes. In some prepared pickles, sugar or other sweeteners are used to enhance the taste. At the same time, the amount of oil and salt can also be high. Regular and excessive consumption of such pickles is not considered a better option for a person suffering from diabetes. While making pickles at home, recipes with less or no sugar and limited quantity of oil and salt can be used. It is better to take pickles not as a main meal, but in small quantities as a flavor enhancer.

The method of cooking is also important along with carbohydrates in papad.

Papads are often made from lentils or other ingredients, but their carbohydrate content can vary depending on the type. Apart from this, the papad available in the market may also contain more salt and other ingredients. The most important thing is how the papad is being cooked. Fried papad can add extra oil and calories. Therefore, if you want to eat papad in diabetes, it may be better to prefer limited quantity and non-fried option.

Not every chutney is the same

The same rule applies to chutney also. Chutneys made from fresh coriander, mint, green chillies, lemon and spices can usually form part of the meal in small quantities. But some chutneys may contain jaggery, sugar, sweet sauces or sweet fruits in large quantities. Such chutney can have a greater impact on blood sugar. Therefore, while choosing chutney, it is important to look at its ingredients.

quantity is most important

In diabetes, paying attention to the quantity and balance of overall meals rather than completely cutting out something may be a more practical approach for many people. Consider pickles, papad and chutney as small accompaniments to the meal, not the main part. When purchasing packaged products, it is useful to look for information on Added Sugar, Total Carbohydrate and Sodium on the label.

After all, diabetes management isn't all about one food item. It is important to follow the daily diet, quantity of food, physical activity and medicines prescribed by the doctor. Therefore, instead of being afraid of pickle, papad or chutney, it is a wiser option to pay attention to these three things – ingredients, quantity and regularity.


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