Quick answer: Ajwa dates are rich in natural sugar, so they affect blood glucose. Some studies report that dates have a low to medium glycaemic index, but responses differ from person to person. If you have diabetes, ask your doctor or dietitian whether and how much to eat, and monitor your own glucose.
Last updated: 14 November 2026. This article is general information, not medical advice.
What we know about dates and blood sugar
- Dates are carbohydrate-rich: most of their weight is natural sugar and other carbohydrate.
- Dates also contain fibre, which slows how quickly sugar is absorbed.
- Reported glycaemic index values for dates are generally in the low to medium range, and vary by variety and ripeness.
- Studies on Saudi date varieties have compared how different dates affect blood glucose, and Ajwa is often discussed among the varieties with a gentler effect. Results differ between studies and people.
A low glycaemic index does not mean that you can eat unlimited dates. The amount you eat still matters, because the total carbohydrate adds up.
Practical points to discuss with your doctor
- Portion size: ask how many dates fit into your daily carbohydrate plan.
- What you eat them with: dates eaten alongside protein or healthy fats, such as nuts or yoghurt, are usually absorbed more slowly than dates on their own.
- Timing: avoid eating them together with other sweet foods or drinks unless your plan allows it.
- Monitoring: check your glucose after eating dates to see how you respond, and share the results with your care team.
- Medication: if you take insulin or tablets, ask whether any adjustment is needed when you eat dates, for example at iftar during Ramadan.
Ajwa compared with other dates
Ajwa dates are small to medium, so one date has fewer calories than a large Medjool. See Ajwa dates calories and nutrition facts to work out your portion, and our Ajwa dates research guide for more on the science.
Frequently asked questions
Can diabetics eat Ajwa dates?
It depends on the person, their medication and their diet plan. Ask your doctor or dietitian before adding dates to your diet.
Are Ajwa dates good for diabetes?
Dates are not a treatment for diabetes. They are a sweet, carbohydrate-rich food that some people with diabetes include in small portions under medical guidance.
Do Ajwa dates have a low glycaemic index?
Reported glycaemic index values for dates are generally low to medium, but they depend on the variety, ripeness and the person.
How many Ajwa dates can I eat?
There is no single answer. Your doctor or dietitian can set a portion that fits your carbohydrate plan.
