Since large amounts of sugar raise blood sugar to harmful levels, it is best to avoid this beverage in all its forms
Come summer, and we can all see sugarcane juice being sold in every nook and corner of your city. As it is becoming more mainstream, sugarcane juice is being marketed as an all-natural beverage with many health benefits. While traditional medicine does recommend ganne ka ras to treat liver, kidney, and other diseases, it may not be as beneficial for those with diabetes.
What is sugarcane juice?
According to experts, sugarcane juice is a syrupy liquid pressed from peeled sugarcane and is mixed with lime or other juices and served over ice for a tasty drink. It is processed to make cane sugar, brown sugar, molasses, and even jaggery. Sugarcane can also be used to make rum, and in Brazil, it’s fermented and used to make a liquor called cachaça.
While sugarcane juice is not pure sugar, as it contains water, fibre, and sugar in the form of sucrose, it is a major source of most of the world’s table sugar. In its unprocessed form, it is also a great source of phenolic and flavonoid antioxidants. It is also loaded with vitamins, potassium, and other electrolytes, which are super hydrating.
Is sugarcane juice okay for those with diabetes?
Similar to other high-sugar drinks, sugarcane juice is not at all recommended for those with diabetes. According to experts, since large amounts of sugar raise blood sugar to harmful levels, it is best to avoid this beverage in all its forms.
Even though studies say that the polyphenol antioxidants in sugarcane extract help pancreas cells produce more insulin - the hormone that regulates your blood sugar—it is preliminary research that does not endorse sugarcane juice for those with diabetes.
However, doctors say if you like drinking fruit juices, it is better to use fruits to infuse your water with natural sweetness.
What can you drink if you have diabetes?
If you have diabetes, you must opt for drinks that have no calories or a low number of calories, a few of which include:
Seltzer water
It is a tasty, fizzy, sugar-free alternative to other carbonated beverages like soda. Seltzer water is a calorie-, carb-, and sugar-free drink that helps hydrate you and support healthy blood sugar levels.
Herbal tea
Herbal teas are among the best drinks to hydrate, lose weight, and even keep your blood sugar levels balanced. Varieties like chamomile, hibiscus, ginger, and peppermint tea are all excellent options if you have diabetes.
Vegetable juice
While fruit juices are high in sugar, vegetable juices are a great option. You can juice up a blend of green leafy vegetables, celery, or cucumbers with a handful of berries for a flavourful source of vitamins and minerals.
Sugar-free lemonade
Whip up your sugar-free lemonade at home using just a few simple ingredients for a refreshing and delicious low-carb beverage.
Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Health and around the world.
