Luqaimat with Date Syrup
Quick answer
A medium portion of Luqaimat with Date Syrup (90 g) contains 279 kcal, with 47.2 g of net carbohydrates and 3.8 g of protein. Its glycemic index is 44 (Low) for how fast it raises blood sugar, while its glycemic load per portion is 20.8 (High) for its actual effect.
- Carbs48.6 g69.2%
- Protein3.8 g5.4%
- Fat7.9 g25.4%
- Fibre1.4 g
Percentages of total energy (calories)
How many calories are in luqaimat?
Luqaimat are the star of Ramadan and feasts: fried dough balls, crispy outside and soft inside, dipped in date syrup or sugar syrup. According to the page's data, there are 310 calories per 100 g, and a portion (90 g, about 6 pieces) has about 279 calories. And who stops at 6 pieces? 😄
Do luqaimat raise blood sugar?
Here is a surprise: an Emirati study actually measured luqaimat, and their glycemic index came out at 44, which means low!
But before you celebrate: the researchers themselves said the most likely reason is the high fat from frying, because it slows digestion. So the low index here is not a health certificate, because it comes with saturated fat and lots of calories.
And in terms of amount, the glycemic load of a portion is about 21, which means high. So a full portion has a clear effect on blood sugar.
The lesson from luqaimat
Luqaimat teach us that the glycemic index alone is not enough. Some foods have a low index only because they are full of fat, so always look at the calories and the amount along with the index.
How to eat them smartly
- Keep it to 3 pieces on a small plate, instead of eating straight from the big tray.
- Use less syrup or date syrup on top.
- You can eat them after a meal, not on an empty stomach, with a cup of Arabic coffee without sugar.
- At home, you can try making them in an air fryer instead of deep-frying.
Lighter alternatives
- Instead of a full plate of luqaimat: 3 pieces with one date.
- Instead of fried sweets: two dates with a cup of yoghurt. Dates have an index between 46 and 55 depending on the variety.
Nutrition facts
| Nutrient | Per 100 g | Per typical portion (90 g) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 310 kcal | 279 kcal |
| Protein | 4.2 g | 3.8 g |
| Carbohydrate | 54 g | 48.6 g |
| Available carbohydrate | 52.5 g | 47.2 g |
| Sugar | not available | — |
| Fat | 8.8 g | 7.9 g |
| Dietary fibre | 1.5 g | 1.4 g |
| Glycemic index | 44 · Low | |
| Glycemic load | — | 20.8 |
| Insulin index | not tested | |
The typical portion is approximate, for comparison purposes.
Comparison & smarter alternatives
Among the foods in Sweets & desserts with a glycemic index (56), it ranks 3 (lowest first).
Frequently asked questions
How many calories are in luqaimat?
According to the page's data, 310 calories per 100 g, and a portion (90 g, about 6 pieces) has about 279 calories.
Do luqaimat raise blood sugar?
Their measured index is low (44) because of the fat, but the load of a portion is high (about 21). So the amount makes a big difference.
Are luqaimat suitable for weight loss?
In a small amount (2 or 3 pieces) as a treat on special occasions, not every day.
Are luqaimat with date syrup better than with sugar syrup?
Date syrup and sugar syrup are both sugar, and the amount you pour matters more than the type.
Read also
- HbA1c & Insulin Resistance: Comprehensive Clinical GuideArticle
- Prediabetes: How to Stop the Train and Lower Your HbA1cGuide
- Gestational Diabetes Guide: Normal Levels and Foods to EatGuide
References & Scientific Sources
- The glycemic index of this food comes from a published measurement (source in the next item). GI bands (low ≤ 55 · medium 56–69 · high ≥ 70) follow: ISO 26642:2010. Food products — Determination of the glycaemic index (GI) and recommendation for food classification. International Organization for Standardization; 2010. www.iso.org/standard/43633.html
- The glycemic index of luqaimat (44 ± 4) was measured in a laboratory in 15 healthy volunteers in an Emirati study; note that the measured recipe may differ slightly in the type of syrup used. Al Dhaheri AS et al. Glycaemic index and glycaemic load values of commonly consumed foods in the United Arab Emirates. Br J Nutr. 2017;117:1110–7.
- Definition of available carbohydrate and glycemic load: FAO/WHO. Carbohydrates in human nutrition: report of a joint FAO/WHO expert consultation. FAO Food and Nutrition Paper 66. Rome; 1998. www.fao.org/4/w8079e/w8079e00.htm
Medically reviewed by Dr. Wassim Habib | Founder, WiBo Health · 31 October 2026
Disclaimer: This guidance is for nutritional lifestyle orientation and does not constitute a diagnostic medical device under EU Regulation MDR 2017/745.