Is Durian Too Sugary to Enjoy? A Journalist’s Take on Fruit Consumption and Health

A 25-year-old named Ngan from Ho Chi Minh City enjoys eating durian, but she wonders if consuming too much of this fruit can increase blood sugar levels or cause acne. While fruit is a good source of essential nutrients, including vitamins, fiber, sugar, and micronutrients, not all fruits are equally beneficial for health. It is important to limit daily intake of certain fruits.

Durian is a high-calorie fruit that provides 300 kcal, 50 g of sugar, 10 g of fat, 3 g of protein, and 8 g of fiber per 200 mg of segments. It also contains B vitamins, potassium, and magnesium. The high sugar content in durian makes it dangerous to consume in large amounts as it can lead to spikes in blood sugar and insulin levels. Increased insulin production can trigger the secretion of androgens which leads to excess oil production and inflammation that can contribute to acne development.

To avoid these issues entirely, it is recommended that Ngan only consume durian two to three times a week with one to two segments each time. This will help prevent excess energy intake while stabilizing blood sugar levels and reducing the risk of developing pimples. She must be mindful about portion sizes and frequency of consumption while maintaining a healthy balance in her diet.