Introduction
For individuals managing diabetes, the daily navigation of dietary choices can feel like a complex and often overwhelming task. Every meal and drink selection becomes a carefully considered calculation, weighing potential impacts on blood sugar levels and long-term health. Amidst this intricate landscape of food decisions, common and seemingly healthy beverages, like fruit juice, often come under scrutiny. Orange juice, a breakfast table staple and a widely recognized source of Vitamin C, frequently raises questions for those living with diabetes: can diabetics drink orange juice safely and without jeopardizing their glycemic control?
The concern surrounding orange juice and diabetes is not unfounded. Fruit juices, in general, are known to be concentrated sources of natural sugars. While these are naturally occurring sugars found in fruit, they can still significantly impact blood glucose levels, especially when consumed in larger quantities or without considering other dietary factors. For someone with diabetes, understanding how different foods and drinks affect blood sugar is paramount to maintaining stable levels, preventing complications, and ensuring overall well-being. Therefore, a deep dive into the specific characteristics of orange juice and its interaction with diabetes management is crucial.
This comprehensive article aims to provide a balanced and thoroughly researched perspective on whether can diabetics drink orange juice. We will explore the nutritional profile of orange juice, delve into its glycemic impact, discuss potential risks and benefits, and offer practical guidelines for individuals with diabetes who may wish to include orange juice in their diet, or more importantly, identify healthier and more diabetes-friendly alternatives. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about your dietary choices and confidently manage your diabetes while enjoying a varied and nutritious diet.
Understanding Diabetes and Dietary Choices

To effectively answer the question “can diabetics drink orange juice,” it’s essential to first establish a foundational understanding of diabetes itself and the critical role that dietary choices play in its management. Diabetes, in its most common forms (Type 1 and Type 2), is characterized by the body’s inability to properly regulate blood glucose, or blood sugar. This can arise either because the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin (Type 1) or because the body becomes resistant to insulin (Type 2), a hormone that facilitates glucose uptake into cells for energy.
The Basics of Diabetes and Blood Sugar
When we consume carbohydrates, our bodies break them down into glucose, which enters the bloodstream. In individuals without diabetes, insulin efficiently signals cells to absorb this glucose, keeping blood sugar levels within a healthy range. However, in diabetes, this process is disrupted. Elevated blood sugar levels, known as hyperglycemia, can occur if glucose isn’t efficiently removed from the blood. Conversely, excessively low blood sugar, hypoglycemia, can also be dangerous. Maintaining stable blood sugar levels within a target range is the cornerstone of diabetes management.
Diet plays a pivotal role in blood sugar control because the foods we eat directly impact the amount of glucose entering our bloodstream. Different foods affect blood sugar levels at varying rates and to different degrees, largely depending on their carbohydrate content, fiber content, and how quickly they are digested and absorbed. Understanding the glycemic index (GI) and glycemic load (GL) of foods becomes crucial for individuals with diabetes. The GI ranks foods based on how quickly they raise blood sugar compared to pure glucose, while GL considers both the GI and the serving size of a food, providing a more practical measure of its overall impact on blood sugar.
Why Diet is Crucial for Diabetes Management
For individuals with diabetes, dietary management is not just about weight control; it’s a fundamental aspect of overall health and well-being. A well-planned diet can significantly improve blood sugar control, reduce the need for medication in some cases (especially in Type 2 diabetes), and minimize the risk of long-term complications associated with diabetes, such as heart disease, nerve damage (neuropathy), kidney disease (nephropathy), and eye damage (retinopathy).
The principles of a diabetes-friendly diet generally emphasize:
- Controlling Carbohydrate Intake: Monitoring the amount and type of carbohydrates consumed is vital. This doesn’t mean eliminating carbs entirely, but rather choosing healthier carbohydrate sources and being mindful of portion sizes.
- Prioritizing Fiber-Rich Foods: Fiber slows down the absorption of sugar, helping to prevent rapid blood sugar spikes. Foods rich in fiber include whole grains, vegetables, and fruits (in moderation).
- Choosing Lean Proteins and Healthy Fats: These macronutrients have a lesser impact on blood sugar compared to carbohydrates and contribute to satiety and overall health.
- Limiting Sugary Drinks and Processed Foods: These items often contain high amounts of added sugars and unhealthy fats, which can negatively impact blood sugar and overall health.
- Regular Meal Timing and Portion Control: Consistent meal times and appropriate portion sizes help to maintain stable blood sugar levels throughout the day.
Therefore, when we consider the question “can diabetics drink orange juice,” we must evaluate orange juice through the lens of these dietary principles and its potential impact on blood sugar management within the context of diabetes.
Orange Juice: Nutritional Profile and Glycemic Impact
To determine whether can diabetics drink orange juice fits into a diabetes-friendly diet, a thorough examination of its nutritional profile and glycemic characteristics is necessary. Orange juice, while often lauded for its vitamin content, also carries a significant amount of natural sugars, which is a key consideration for individuals managing diabetes.
Nutritional Value of Orange Juice
Orange juice is undeniably a good source of several essential nutrients, most notably Vitamin C. An 8-ounce (240ml) serving of 100% orange juice typically provides:
- Vitamin C: Well over 100% of the daily recommended value, crucial for immune function, antioxidant protection, and collagen production.
- Folate (Vitamin B9): Important for cell growth and development.
- Potassium: An electrolyte that helps regulate blood pressure and muscle function.
- Thiamin (Vitamin B1): Essential for energy metabolism.
- Some Antioxidants: Including flavonoids and carotenoids, which may have health-protective properties.
However, alongside these beneficial nutrients, orange juice also contains a substantial amount of carbohydrates and natural sugars:
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30 grams per 8-ounce serving.
- Sugars: Most of these carbohydrates come from natural sugars, primarily fructose, glucose, and sucrose. An 8-ounce serving can contain around 22-25 grams of sugar.
- Fiber: Orange juice, especially pulp-free varieties, is relatively low in fiber, containing less than 1 gram per serving.
It’s this high sugar and low fiber combination that raises concerns about can diabetics drink orange juice without adverse effects on their blood sugar levels. The lack of fiber means that the sugars in orange juice are absorbed relatively quickly into the bloodstream.
The Glycemic Index and Glycemic Load of Orange Juice
As previously mentioned, the Glycemic Index (GI) and Glycemic Load (GL) are important tools for understanding how foods affect blood sugar.
- Glycemic Index (GI) of Orange Juice: Orange juice typically has a moderate to high GI, ranging from 66 to 76. This places it in the category of foods that can cause a relatively rapid rise in blood sugar levels. The specific GI can vary slightly depending on factors like processing methods and ripeness of the oranges.
- Glycemic Load (GL) of Orange Juice: The Glycemic Load considers the serving size. An 8-ounce serving of orange juice has a GL of around 10-13, which is considered medium. While a medium GL is less concerning than a high GL, it still indicates a noticeable impact on blood sugar, especially when consumed on its own or in larger quantities.
These GI and GL values suggest that can diabetics drink orange juice with caution, as it has the potential to cause a significant and relatively rapid increase in blood sugar levels. For individuals aiming to maintain stable blood sugar, consistently consuming high GI and medium GL beverages like orange juice could pose a challenge. The lack of fiber further exacerbates this effect, as fiber helps to slow down sugar absorption. Therefore, while orange juice offers some nutritional benefits, its glycemic impact is a crucial factor to consider when addressing the question of whether can diabetics drink orange juice.
Can Diabetics Drink Orange Juice? – A Balanced Perspective

Having examined the nutritional profile and glycemic impact of orange juice, we can now directly address the question: “Can diabetics drink orange juice?” The answer, as with many dietary questions related to diabetes, is not a simple yes or no. It’s more nuanced and depends on several factors, including the individual’s overall diabetes management plan, blood sugar control, portion size, and dietary preferences.
Potential Risks of Orange Juice for Diabetics
The primary risk associated with orange juice consumption for individuals with diabetes is the potential for rapid blood sugar spikes. As we’ve established, orange juice is high in sugar and relatively low in fiber. This combination leads to quick absorption of glucose into the bloodstream, which can overwhelm the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar effectively, especially in those with insulin resistance or deficiency.
Consistently experiencing high blood sugar levels can have several negative consequences for people with diabetes:
- Hyperglycemia Symptoms: Short-term symptoms of high blood sugar can include increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, and headaches.
- Long-Term Complications: Over time, chronic hyperglycemia can significantly increase the risk of serious diabetes complications, including cardiovascular disease, nerve damage, kidney damage, and eye damage.
- Challenges in Blood Sugar Management: Regular consumption of orange juice can make it more challenging to maintain stable blood sugar levels within the target range, potentially requiring adjustments in medication or insulin dosages.
Therefore, for individuals with diabetes who are struggling to manage their blood sugar effectively, or who are particularly sensitive to carbohydrate intake, regular consumption of orange juice may not be advisable. In such cases, the risks associated with blood sugar spikes might outweigh any potential benefits.
Potential Benefits of Orange Juice for Diabetics
While the risks are significant, there might be specific situations where can diabetics drink orange juice with potential, albeit limited, benefits. One such scenario is the management of hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar.
Hypoglycemia can occur in individuals with diabetes who are taking insulin or certain oral medications that stimulate insulin release. Symptoms of hypoglycemia can range from mild shakiness and sweating to more severe confusion, seizures, or loss of consciousness. In cases of mild to moderate hypoglycemia, it’s crucial to quickly raise blood sugar levels.
In these situations, a fast-acting source of glucose is needed. Orange juice, with its high sugar content and liquid form, can be rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream, effectively raising blood sugar levels. The American Diabetes Association recommends using 4 ounces of juice or regular soda to treat hypoglycemia. In this context, can diabetics drink orange juice as a treatment for low blood sugar is a valid and sometimes necessary intervention.
However, it’s crucial to emphasize that this is a treatment for hypoglycemia, not a regular dietary inclusion. The goal is to quickly raise blood sugar to a safe level and then follow up with a more balanced snack or meal to prevent blood sugar from dropping again. Orange juice should not be viewed as a preventative measure for hypoglycemia or a regular part of a diabetes-friendly diet simply because it can raise blood sugar.
Furthermore, the vitamin C and other nutrients in orange juice, while beneficial for overall health, are readily obtainable from other, lower-sugar sources that are more suitable for daily consumption by individuals with diabetes (which we will discuss later).
Portion Control is Key: If You Choose to Drink Orange Juice
For individuals with well-managed diabetes, who are aware of the risks and potential blood sugar impact, and who still wish to include orange juice in their diet, can diabetics drink orange juice in very small portions and infrequently, as part of a carefully planned meal and under strict blood sugar monitoring.
If opting to consume orange juice, the following guidelines are essential:
- Strict Portion Control: Limit serving sizes to no more than 4 ounces (120ml). This smaller portion will still provide some nutrients but will have a less dramatic impact on blood sugar compared to a full 8-ounce serving.
- Consume with a Meal: Drinking orange juice alongside a meal that includes protein, fiber, and healthy fats can help to slow down sugar absorption and mitigate blood sugar spikes. Avoid drinking orange juice on an empty stomach.
- Monitor Blood Sugar Levels: Check blood sugar levels before and after consuming orange juice to understand its specific impact on your individual glycemic response. This will help you make informed decisions about future consumption.
- Frequency: Limit orange juice consumption to occasional treats rather than a daily habit.
By adhering to these guidelines, some individuals with well-controlled diabetes might be able to occasionally incorporate a small portion of orange juice into their diet without significantly disrupting their blood sugar management. However, it remains crucial to prioritize lower-sugar alternatives and focus on a diet primarily composed of whole, unprocessed foods.
Choosing the Right Type of Orange Juice
When considering “can diabetics drink orange juice,” the type of orange juice can also make a difference, albeit a small one.
- 100% Orange Juice vs. Juice Drinks or Cocktails: Always choose 100% orange juice without added sugars. Juice drinks or cocktails often contain significant amounts of added sugars, further exacerbating the blood sugar impact and making them even less suitable for individuals with diabetes.
- Pulp vs. No Pulp: Orange juice with pulp contains slightly more fiber than pulp-free varieties. While the fiber content is still low overall, choosing juice with pulp might slightly slow down sugar absorption compared to pulp-free juice.
- Freshly Squeezed vs. Store-Bought: Nutritionally, freshly squeezed and store-bought 100% orange juice are quite similar. However, freshly squeezed juice might be perceived as “healthier” simply because it’s less processed. From a blood sugar perspective, the difference is minimal. Regardless of whether it’s fresh or store-bought, portion control remains key.
In summary, while can diabetics drink orange juice is technically possible under very specific conditions and with careful management, it’s generally not recommended as a regular part of a diabetes-friendly diet due to its high sugar content and glycemic impact. The potential risks of blood sugar spikes often outweigh the limited benefits. Prioritizing healthier, lower-sugar alternatives is generally a more prudent approach.
Healthier Alternatives to Orange Juice for Diabetics

Given the challenges associated with can diabetics drink orange juice regularly and safely, it’s essential to explore healthier, diabetes-friendly alternatives that can provide similar nutritional benefits without the same glycemic risks. Fortunately, numerous options offer excellent sources of vitamins, minerals, and hydration while being much kinder to blood sugar levels.
Low-Sugar Fruit Options
While fruit juice concentrates the sugars from fruit and removes much of the fiber, whole fruits offer a more balanced nutritional package. Certain fruits are naturally lower in sugar and higher in fiber compared to oranges and orange juice, making them better choices for individuals with diabetes when consumed in moderation.
- Berries: Berries like strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries are excellent choices. They are relatively low in sugar, high in fiber and antioxidants, and have a lower glycemic impact compared to orange juice. A cup of berries can be a satisfying and nutritious snack or addition to a meal.
- Cherries (Tart): Tart cherries, unlike sweet cherries, are lower in sugar and may offer some potential benefits for inflammation. They can be enjoyed in moderation, but portion control is still important due to their carbohydrate content.
- Apples (with Skin): Apples, especially varieties like Granny Smith, are moderate in sugar and contain fiber, particularly in the skin. Eating a whole apple (with skin) provides more fiber and a slower sugar release than drinking apple juice.
- Pears: Pears are another fruit option that, when eaten whole, provides fiber and moderate sweetness.
When choosing fruits, it’s generally recommended to opt for whole fruits over fruit juices whenever possible. Whole fruits retain their fiber content, which helps to slow down sugar absorption and provides additional health benefits. Remember that even with lower-sugar fruits, portion control is still important for diabetes management.
Vegetable Juices
Vegetable juices are significantly lower in sugar compared to fruit juices and can be a good way to increase vegetable intake. Unsweetened vegetable juices offer a range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants without the same glycemic burden as orange juice.
- Tomato Juice: Unsweetened tomato juice is low in sugar and calories and provides vitamins and antioxidants. Choose low-sodium varieties to manage sodium intake.
- Vegetable Blends: Many vegetable juice blends combine various vegetables like carrots, spinach, beets, and celery. Look for unsweetened versions and check the ingredient list to ensure they are primarily composed of vegetables and not fruit juices.
- Green Juices: Juices made from leafy green vegetables like spinach, kale, and cucumber are very low in sugar and rich in nutrients. These can be blended at home or purchased pre-made, ensuring they are unsweetened.
Vegetable juices offer a significantly lower glycemic impact compared to orange juice and can be a more diabetes-friendly way to obtain nutrients from plant-based sources. However, it’s still important to be mindful of sodium content, especially in commercially prepared vegetable juices, and choose low-sodium or no-salt-added options when possible.
Infused Water and Other Hydration Options
Maintaining adequate hydration is crucial for everyone, including individuals with diabetes. However, sugary drinks like fruit juices can contribute to poor blood sugar control and weight gain. Fortunately, there are many delicious and diabetes-friendly ways to stay hydrated without the added sugar.
- Water: Plain water is the best hydration choice for everyone, including people with diabetes. It’s calorie-free, sugar-free, and essential for numerous bodily functions.
- Infused Water: Add flavor to water without sugar by infusing it with fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Cucumber, lemon, lime, berries, mint, and ginger are excellent choices for creating refreshing and flavorful infused water.
- Unsweetened Tea and Coffee: Unsweetened tea (herbal, black, green) and coffee are also good hydration options with minimal impact on blood sugar. Avoid adding sugar, sweeteners, or creamy additions.
- Sparkling Water: Unsweetened sparkling water can be a refreshing alternative to sugary sodas and juices. You can add a squeeze of lemon or lime for extra flavor.
These hydration options provide fluids without the added sugars found in orange juice and other sugary beverages. They are ideal for individuals with diabetes who need to maintain adequate hydration while managing their blood sugar effectively.
In conclusion, while can diabetics drink orange juice under very controlled circumstances, there are numerous healthier and more diabetes-friendly alternatives readily available. Prioritizing whole fruits in moderation, vegetable juices, and sugar-free hydration options will contribute to better blood sugar management and overall well-being for individuals living with diabetes.
Practical Tips for Incorporating (or Avoiding) Orange Juice in a Diabetic Diet
For individuals with diabetes still considering whether can diabetics drink orange juice is a viable option, or for those who occasionally choose to consume it, here are some practical tips to help navigate this dietary decision responsibly. These tips focus on minimizing potential blood sugar impact and maximizing safety.
Monitoring Blood Sugar Levels
The most crucial step when considering incorporating orange juice into a diabetic diet (or any new food or beverage) is diligent blood sugar monitoring.
- Check Before and After: Measure blood sugar levels immediately before consuming orange juice and again 1-2 hours after. This will provide personalized data on how your body responds to orange juice specifically.
- Keep a Food Diary: Track your orange juice intake (portion size, type, time of day) alongside your blood sugar readings and any other relevant factors (e.g., exercise, stress, other foods consumed). This helps identify patterns and understand the cause-and-effect relationship between orange juice and your blood sugar.
- Discuss with Your Healthcare Team: Share your blood sugar monitoring data and food diary with your doctor or a registered dietitian. They can provide personalized guidance based on your individual responses and overall diabetes management plan.
Consistent blood sugar monitoring is the most effective way to determine can diabetics drink orange juice safely in their individual circumstances. It provides real-time feedback and empowers informed decision-making.
Consulting with a Healthcare Professional
Before making significant changes to your diet, especially when it comes to incorporating foods or beverages with a known impact on blood sugar, consulting with a healthcare professional is highly recommended. This is particularly important when considering “can diabetics drink orange juice” as a regular dietary item.
- Doctor or Endocrinologist: Your primary care physician or endocrinologist can assess your overall diabetes management, blood sugar control, and individual risk factors to provide personalized advice on dietary choices, including orange juice.
- Registered Dietitian (RD) or Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE): These professionals specialize in nutrition and diabetes education. They can help you develop a comprehensive meal plan that meets your individual needs, preferences, and blood sugar management goals. They can provide detailed guidance on portion sizes, carbohydrate counting, and healthier alternatives to orange juice.
Seeking professional advice ensures that your dietary choices are aligned with your overall diabetes management plan and helps you make informed decisions based on your specific health needs.
Reading Food Labels Carefully
For those who choose to occasionally consume orange juice, or when selecting alternatives like vegetable juices or other packaged beverages, meticulous label reading is essential.
- Check Sugar Content: Pay close attention to the “Total Sugars” and “Added Sugars” amounts per serving on the Nutrition Facts label. Choose 100% orange juice with no added sugars. Compare labels of different brands and varieties to select options with slightly lower sugar content, if possible.
- Serving Size: Be mindful of the serving size listed on the label and adhere to it. A seemingly small portion size might still contain a significant amount of sugar. Remember that recommended portion sizes for individuals with diabetes are often smaller than standard serving sizes.
- Ingredient List: Review the ingredient list to ensure that the product is truly 100% juice and doesn’t contain added sugars, syrups, or other unnecessary ingredients. For vegetable juices, check for low-sodium or no-salt-added options.
Careful label reading empowers you to make informed choices and select products that align with your dietary goals and blood sugar management plan, minimizing the potential negative impact of “can diabetics drink orange juice” or similar beverages.
By implementing these practical tips, individuals with diabetes can approach the question of “can diabetics drink orange juice” with greater awareness, responsibility, and a focus on maintaining optimal blood sugar control and overall health. Ultimately, the goal is to make informed dietary choices that support effective diabetes management and a healthy lifestyle.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Diabetics and Orange Juice
To further clarify common concerns and provide quick answers, here is a dedicated FAQ section addressing frequently asked questions related to “can diabetics drink orange juice“.
Q1: Can diabetics drink orange juice every day?
A1: Generally, no, daily consumption of orange juice is not recommended for most diabetics. Due to its high sugar content and glycemic impact, daily orange juice intake can make blood sugar management more challenging. Occasional, very small portions (4 ounces or less) might be considered for some individuals with well-controlled diabetes, but only under strict portion control and blood sugar monitoring, and ideally with professional guidance. Healthier, lower-sugar alternatives should be prioritized for daily hydration and nutrient intake.
Q2: What is the best time for a diabetic to drink orange juice if they choose to?
A2: If a diabetic chooses to drink orange juice, the best time is with a meal, particularly a meal that includes protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Consuming it with food can help to slow down sugar absorption and mitigate blood sugar spikes compared to drinking it on an empty stomach. However, it is still crucial to monitor blood sugar levels afterward. Another specific time when orange juice might be appropriate is during hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) as a quick source of glucose to raise blood sugar levels rapidly.
Q3: Is freshly squeezed orange juice better for diabetics than store-bought?
A3: Nutritionally, freshly squeezed and store-bought 100% orange juice are quite similar in terms of sugar and vitamin content. Neither is inherently “better” for diabetics in terms of glycemic impact. Both types will raise blood sugar levels comparably. Freshly squeezed juice might be perceived as more natural, but from a diabetes management perspective, portion control and overall sugar content are the primary concerns, regardless of whether the juice is fresh or store-bought.
Q4: What are the signs of high blood sugar after drinking orange juice?
A4: Signs of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) after drinking orange juice may include:
- Increased thirst
- Frequent urination
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Headache
If you experience these symptoms after consuming orange juice, it’s important to check your blood sugar levels to confirm hyperglycemia and take appropriate steps to manage it, as advised by your healthcare team.
Q5: Are there any benefits to drinking orange juice for type 2 diabetes specifically?
A5: While orange juice provides Vitamin C and some other nutrients, there are no unique benefits specifically for type 2 diabetes that outweigh the risks. The high sugar content and glycemic impact pose potential challenges for blood sugar management, which is a central focus in type 2 diabetes. Any nutrients obtained from orange juice can be more safely and effectively obtained from lower-sugar, higher-fiber sources that are more conducive to diabetes management. For individuals with type 2 diabetes, prioritizing whole fruits in moderation, vegetables, and sugar-free hydration options is generally a more beneficial approach.
Conclusion
In conclusion, addressing the question “can diabetics drink orange juice” requires a nuanced understanding of diabetes, the nutritional profile and glycemic impact of orange juice, and individual health considerations. While orange juice provides certain nutrients, its high sugar content and moderate to high glycemic index present significant challenges for blood sugar management in individuals with diabetes.
For most people with diabetes, regular consumption of orange juice is not recommended. The potential for blood sugar spikes and the availability of healthier alternatives generally outweigh any perceived benefits. However, in specific situations like treating hypoglycemia, small portions of orange juice can be used as a quick source of glucose.
If individuals with well-controlled diabetes choose to occasionally include orange juice in their diet, it must be done with strict portion control (4 ounces or less), consumed with a meal, and accompanied by diligent blood sugar monitoring. Consultation with a healthcare professional is highly advised to personalize dietary recommendations and ensure safe and effective diabetes management.
Ultimately, prioritizing a diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods, including lower-sugar fruits in moderation, vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and sugar-free hydration options will contribute to better blood sugar control, overall health, and well-being for individuals living with diabetes. Making informed dietary choices, guided by professional advice and personal blood sugar monitoring, is key to navigating the complexities of diabetes management and living a healthy, fulfilling life.
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(Alt Text for Images – Examples, assuming images are added in relevant sections):
- (Image of a glass of orange juice): Can diabetics drink orange juice? – Examining the impact on blood sugar.
- (Image of various berries): Healthier alternatives to orange juice for diabetics, like berries.
- (Image of a person checking blood sugar): Blood sugar monitoring is crucial when diabetics consider drinking orange juice.
- (Image of a registered dietitian advising a patient): Consult a healthcare professional for dietary advice on diabetes and orange juice.