Quick answer: Medjool dates are large and rich in natural sugar, so they do raise blood glucose. One pitted Medjool (about 24 g) is reported to contain roughly 16 g of sugar and 18 g of carbohydrate. Dates are often described as having a low to medium glycaemic index, but whether and how many you can eat depends on you, so check with your doctor or dietitian.
Last updated: 14 November 2026. General information, not medical advice.
Sugar and carbs in one Medjool date
| Per pitted Medjool (about 24 g) | Reported value |
|---|---|
| Calories | about 66 kcal |
| Carbohydrate | about 18 g |
| Sugar | about 16 g |
| Fibre | about 1.6 g |
Values vary with size and moisture. A jumbo Medjool can be heavier than 24 g, so its sugar and carbohydrate content is higher. See our Medjool nutrition facts and calories in one Medjool date.
Glycaemic index of dates
Reported glycaemic index (GI) values for dates are generally in the low to medium range, with figures around 42 to 55 cited depending on variety and ripeness. Fibre slows absorption somewhat. GI describes how quickly a food raises glucose, not how much carbohydrate it contains, so a large portion of a low-GI food can still raise glucose significantly. More detail is in our Medjool nutrition and GI guide.
Practical points to discuss with your doctor
- Portion: because Medjool dates are large, one date is already a meaningful carbohydrate serving. Some people with diabetes use half a date as a unit.
- Pairing: eating a date with protein or healthy fat, such as nuts or yoghurt, usually slows the glucose rise compared with eating it alone.
- Monitoring: test your glucose after eating dates to see your own response.
- Medication: ask whether your treatment needs adjusting, for example when breaking the fast at iftar.
- Variety: smaller dates such as Ajwa have fewer calories per piece. See Ajwa vs Medjool.
Buying
Tamooriya Palestinian Medjool dates are cold-stored below 5°C and sold from 250 g, so you can buy small amounts.
Frequently asked questions
Are Medjool dates good for diabetics?
They are not a treatment for diabetes and they are high in sugar. Some people with diabetes include small portions under medical guidance.
How much sugar is in one Medjool date?
Roughly 16 g in a pitted date of about 24 g, more in a jumbo date.
Do Medjool dates have a low glycaemic index?
Reported values for dates are low to medium, but portion size and the individual matter.
Can diabetics eat Medjool dates at iftar?
Ask your doctor first, as your medication and glucose levels may need planning.
