10 Diwali sweets ranked from worst to best for Diabetes

With Diwali right around the corner, sweets are an inseparable part of the celebrations. But if you or your loved ones are diabetic, not all mithais are created equal. In a recent social media post, Dr. Pramod Tripathi ranked common Diwali sweets from worst to best for blood sugar control, here’s what he shared.

Delicious but deadly for diabetics! Fried in oil and soaked in sugar syrup, Gulab jamun and jalebi gives your body a double sugar hit that spikes glucose fast. Best to admire, not devour. Even a single piece can cause your blood sugar to soar within minutes, so enjoy only a bite if you must.

Rasgulla is sugar-soaked, while Soan Papdi melts instantly in your mouth and in your bloodstream. Both cause rapid sugar spikes and offer little fibre or fat to slow absorption. If you crave something sweet, try sharing one piece instead of having a full serving to limit the impact.

Rich and indulgent, Mysore Pak contains tons of sugar, but the ghee helps slow sugar absorption slightly. Still, it’s best kept for a rare treat, not a daily bite. Choose homemade versions with less sugar and more ghee for a slightly better balance.

Both come with some balancing fats and fibre, thanks to ghee or coconut, which dull glucose peaks. But they’re still high in carbs and calories, portion control is key. One small piece after a protein-rich meal can help minimize sugar spikes while letting you enjoy the flavor.

Naturally sweetened with figs and packed with fibre and nuts, Anjeer rolls slow down sugar release and even support digestion. A smart, festive-friendly option for diabetics. You can also make them at home using no added sugar for an even healthier twist.

Nut-based and protein-rich, Kaju Katli and Besan Laddoo digest slowly and cause a much milder sugar rise. Just keep portions small and skip extra ghee or added sugar.

Festivals are about joy, not guilt, but awareness is key. Choose fibre-rich, nut-based mithais, eat in moderation, and always pair sweets with balanced meals. As Dr. Pramod Tripathi emphasizes, the goal isn’t to avoid Diwali sweets, but to enjoy them wisely.

• Disclaimer: The information provided in this content is for general awareness only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider or your own doctor with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or health concerns. ET bears no responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or outcomes arising from the use of this information.