Have you been advised by people to have paneer?
Paneer is one of the most favoured vegetarian sources of protein. While paneer is considered a healthy food option for people with diabetes, we must also go through its nutrient content.
Yes, several brands that sell paneer have high-fat content in them. The high-fat content in malai paneer makes it a bad choice for people with diabetes.
On the other hand, homemade paneer or low-fat paneer available in the market is a good choice for people with diabetes. While the protein- and calcium-rich paneer is a good option for people with diabetes, those who are lactose intolerant must refrain from consuming paneer.
Is paneer good for diabetes?
Paneer is a form of Indian cheese and a common ingredient in almost every Indian household. The protein-rich paneer is enjoyed by everyone, especially because of its ability to incorporate different flavours.
While low-fat paneer or homemade paneer is healthy for people with diabetes, this is not true for malai paneer. Yes, you heard it right: your favourite creamy malai paneer has high-fat content in it. The high-fat content makes malai paneer an unhealthy food choice.
However, if you wish to have your favourite malai paneer, please consume it in small quantities. Consuming too much malai paneer can increase weight, which in the long term can increase blood glucose levels.
Also, the lactose content in paneer can spike blood sugar levels, so people with diabetes must eat paneer in small servings. Besides, people who are lactose intolerant must avoid eating paneer.
What is the nutritional value of paneer?
The nutritional value of 100 grams of malai paneer.
- Calories: 257 cal
- Carbohydrate: 12.4 grams
- Protein: 18.8 grams
- Total fat: 14.7 grams
- Lactose: 2.16 g
- Calcium: 83 mg
However, the fat content in the paneer can vary depending on the additional malai content in it.
What is the glycemic index of paneer?
The glycemic index of paneer is 30.
Paneer is a type of cheese commonly used in Northern Indian dishes. Paneer is a dairy product and contains negligible amounts of carbohydrates and has a low glycemic index (GI) value.
Choosing food with a low glycemic index is essential for people with diabetes. The glycemic index shows how quickly carbohydrate-containing food raises blood glucose levels after consumption.
However, it is important to note that if paneer is consumed as part of a dish that contains carbohydrates, such as in a curry or a biryani, the glycemic index of the dish will be influenced by the other ingredients in the dish.
To ensure the nutritive value and low glycemic index, avoid unhealthy cooking of paneer, like deep frying it or adding it to a curry of cashews or fresh cream.
What are the benefits of paneer for diabetes?
Paneer, which is a type of cheese made from milk, has several potential health benefits, including:
1) Good source of protein
Paneer is a good source of protein. Proteins are essential as they help in building and repairing tissues in the body. Also, proteins help to feel satiated for a long time.
2) Rich in calcium
Paneer is also rich in calcium. Calcium is essential for maintaining healthy bones and teeth, as well as for muscle and nerve function.
3) Helps with weight management
Low-fat paneer has low carbohydrate content and high protein, which can help you manage weight.
People with diabetes need to maintain a balanced and healthy diet, which should include a variety of nutrient-dense foods in moderation as part of their diabetes management. If you have diabetes and want to consume paneer, it is recommended to keep the portion size small and pair it with other low-carbohydrate, non-starchy vegetables or whole grains to help balance the meal.
Is paneer good for type 2 diabetes?
Paneer is a healthy food option for diabetes because of its low glycemic index. Paneer for diabetes is considered a healthy option because paneer does not increase sugar levels due to its low carbohydrate content.
According to recent studies, it is seen that eating paneer can even reduce the chances of developing type 2 diabetes. Also, the protein-rich paneer helps in maintaining blood sugar levels. By controlling blood glucose levels, you can ensure good nerve health.
The inclusion of paneer in our diet is a healthy diet choice. Generally, people from the Southern and Western parts of India do prefer paneer; however, you can cook it like poriyal or curry in your traditional way.
How much paneer should people with diabetes eat per day?
The intake of paneer for diabetes should be monitored. Typically, a person having diabetes can consume around 100 grams of paneer in a day. The delay in the release of carbohydrates makes it a good choice for people with diabetes, as it delays the rise in blood glucose levels. However, it is often advisable to take paneer twice or thrice a week.
Consuming paneer as a salad or grilled paneer is healthier than choosing paneer dishes that are either deep-fried or have carbohydrate- or fat-rich gravy.
You must be aware that if paneer is overconsumed, it can cause weight gain.
How Can PB Health Support You?
When someone in your family needs care, you should not have to worry about what happens next or who is responsible for each step.
At PB Health Hospital, IFFCO Chowk, Gurgaon, we believe wellness requires continuity, coordination, and consistent follow-through. Our doctors and care teams work together, supported by technology that helps track progress, organise follow-ups, and keep information clear and accessible. From prevention to recovery, every stage is managed thoughtfully so that nothing important is missed and nothing is left unclear.
To understand more about our approach, you can visit our website, PB Health.