What to drink when you have diabetes (2024)

FAQs

What to drink when you have diabetes? ›

Water is the best drink for people with diabetes, but it's not the only option. Many drinks have added sugars, making them high in carbohydrates. They'll quickly raise blood glucose levels. And, because they're also high in calories with few or no nutrients, they aren't the best choice.

Water is the best drink for people with diabetes, but it's not the only option. Many drinks have added sugars, making them high in carbohydrates. They'll quickly raise blood glucose levels. And, because they're also high in calories with few or no nutrients, they aren't the best choice.

Drinking water is an excellent way to stay hydrated without consuming sugar. Green tea, cow's milk, and fermented milk (kefir) could also help you manage your blood sugar responses. Coffee also contains compounds that may help regulate blood sugar, but confirming this requires more research.

Diet soda, of course, has much less sugar and zero calories when compared to regular, sugary (and oh so delicious) soft drinks, technically making it a good alternative. You can even snag some popular choices that are delicious and totally sugar-free (e.g., Diet co*ke, Diet A&W Root Beer).

Drinking plenty of water helps your kidneys flush out excess sugar. One study found that people who drink more water lower their risk for developing high blood sugar levels. And remember, water is the best. Sugary drinks elevate blood sugar by raising it even more.

Water is the best all-round drink. If your family likes flavoured waters, make your own by adding a squeeze of lemon or lime, or strawberries.

On the other hand, people with diabetes should steer clear of these sports drinks which can affect your blood sugar levels (unless they're planning an extended workout): “Traditional” Gatorade/Powerade.

Is banana good for diabetes? ›

Takeaway. A person with diabetes should include a variety of fresh, whole foods in their diet, such as nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables. Bananas are a safe and nutritious fruit for people with diabetes to eat in moderation as part of a balanced, individualized eating plan.

Although all fresh fruits make a healthy choice, certain fruits, like berries, avocados, citrus fruits, apples, and pomegranates, may offer specific health benefits for people with type 2 diabetes, such as improving post-meal blood sugar levels and lowering blood pressure.

If you have any concerns about managing your blood sugar, speak with your healthcare professional. Like most foods, cranberry juice in small amounts can be a part of a healthy diet, even for those with diabetes.

The fastest way to bring down your blood sugar (glucose) levels is to take insulin, but this should only be done as prescribed by a doctor.

Certain types of foods are especially effective at controlling blood glucose. O'Meara recommends a diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and healthy fats.

The fastest way to lower blood sugar is to take fast-acting insulin medication. Exercise can also help to bring down blood sugar levels quickly. Diet and lifestyle changes can help manage overall blood sugar levels, but for immediate action, prescription medication or medical assistance may be necessary.

On the other hand, people with diabetes should steer clear of these sports drinks which can affect your blood sugar levels (unless they're planning an extended workout): “Traditional” Gatorade/Powerade. On average, both of these drinks contain 34 grams of added sugar and 140 calories per 20-ounce bottle.