Sugar Shock
If you have diabetes, it’s important to pay attention to what you drink. Some drinks can raise your blood sugar levels quickly, which is not good for your health. Sugary drinks are among the worst choices for people with diabetes.
5 Sugary Drinks to Avoid for Diabetes
1. Soda
Regular soda is one of the biggest culprits when it comes to sugar. A can of soda can have as much as 40 grams of sugar or more! Drinking soda can cause a quick spike in blood sugar levels. Over time, this can lead to serious health problems. Instead of soda, try drinking water or unsweetened tea.
2. Sweetened Iced Tea
Many iced teas are sweetened with sugar, making them just as bad as soda. A large cup of sweetened iced tea can contain 30 grams of sugar or more. This can lead to high blood sugar levels. If you love iced tea, try making it at home and adding just a little bit of lemon or mint for flavor.
3. Fruit Juices
Even though fruit juice may seem healthy, many store-bought juices have added sugar. A glass of orange juice can have about 25 grams of sugar. Drinking juice can raise blood sugar levels just like soda. It’s better to eat whole fruits, which have fiber that helps control blood sugar.
4. Energy Drinks
Energy drinks are often loaded with sugar and caffeine. Some energy drinks can have up to 50 grams of sugar per serving! This can lead to rapid spikes in blood sugar. If you need an energy boost, try drinking water or herbal tea instead.
5. Sweetened Coffee Drinks
Many coffee drinks from cafes are sweetened with syrup and whipped cream. A large flavored coffee can have 30 grams of sugar or more! These drinks can raise your blood sugar quickly. If you enjoy coffee, try drinking it black or with a small amount of unsweetened almond milk.
Treatments for Diabetes
If you have diabetes, managing your blood sugar is key to staying healthy. Here are some common treatments:
1. Diet and Nutrition
Eating a healthy diet is important for controlling blood sugar levels. Focus on whole foods like vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats. Avoid sugary drinks and snacks.
2. Physical Activity
Regular exercise can help lower blood sugar levels. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week, like walking, cycling or swimming.
3. Medication
Some people with diabetes may need medication to help control their blood sugar. This can include insulin or oral medications that help the body use sugar more effectively.
4. Monitoring Blood Sugar
Regularly checking your blood sugar levels is important. This helps you see how different foods and drinks affect your levels and helps you manage your diabetes better.
Avoiding Sugary Drinks
Sugary drinks can be harmful for people with diabetes. They can cause blood sugar levels to spike quickly, leading to health problems over time. It’s best to avoid drinks like soda, sweetened iced tea, fruit juices, energy drinks and sweetened coffee drinks. Instead, choose water, unsweetened tea or black coffee.
By following a healthy diet, staying active and working with your doctor on treatment options, you can manage your diabetes and live a healthy life. Remember, every small change you make can help improve your health!
