Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide, and managing blood sugar levels is crucial for those living with the condition.
Studies have shown that consuming high levels of added sugars can increase the risk of developing diabetes, which is why it's essential for diabetics to carefully manage their food intake.
Conventionally, one of the key ways to manage blood sugar levels is through diet, and choosing suitable sweeteners can play a significant role in this.
With so many different sweeteners available, it can be challenging to know which is the best option for diabetics. In this article, we will explore the different types of sweeteners - sugar, jaggery, honey, and brown sugar - which can fit into different types of diets for diabetics and compare their impact on blood sugar levels and potential health risks/benefits for diabetics to help them make an informed choice when it comes to managing blood sugar levels.
Sugar
Sugar is a sweet, crystalline substance commonly used as a sweetener in food and beverages. It is made up of glucose and fructose and is derived from sugar cane or sugar beets.
Sugar is used in various food products, including baked goods, candy, and processed foods. It is also often added to beverages such as soft drinks and coffee.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), adults should limit their intake of added sugars to less than 10% of total energy intake, equivalent to 12 teaspoons (50g) of sugar per day.
Consuming too much sugar can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels, which can be particularly dangerous for diabetics, as it can increase the risk of complications such as heart disease.
Studies have also shown that a high sugar intake is associated with an increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. Therefore, it is recommended that diabetics limit their intake of added sugars and opt for alternative sweeteners that have a lower glycemic index.
Also Read : 8 Vital Reasons for Increasing Diabetes in People
Jaggery
Jaggery is a type of unrefined, whole cane sugar commonly used in India and other South Asia. It is made by boiling down sugar cane juice and then solidifying it into a block or ball.
Jaggery is a sweetener in various food items such as desserts, sweets, and some traditional dishes. Unlike refined sugar, jaggery contains some vitamins and minerals, such as iron, magnesium, and zinc.
According to a study published in the Journal of food science and technology, Jaggery has a lower glycemic index (GI) than refined sugar, which may cause a slower but gradual rise in blood sugar levels.
However, it is still high in calories, with about 380 kcal per 100g, and can contribute to weight gain if consumed excessively.
Therefore, diabetics should consume jaggery in moderation and consult with a doctor or dietitian regarding their daily sugar intake to ensure they are meeting their specific dietary needs.
Also Read: How To Prevent Diabetes ? 30 natural tips
Honey
Honey is a natural sweetener made by bees from the nectar of flowers. It has been a sweetener for thousands of years and is a popular alternative to refined sugar.
Honey is a source of antioxidants, enzymes, vitamins, and minerals that benefit overall health. It also has a lower glycemic index than refined sugar, meaning it may cause a slower and more gradual rise in blood sugar levels.
However, it still contains a significant amount of glucose and fructose, and diabetics should consume it in moderation and monitor their blood sugar levels closely when consuming it.
Some studies suggest that diabetics who consume honey may have lower levels of HbA1c, which is a measure of blood sugar levels over time; however, more research is needed to confirm these findings.
Also read: The Latest Diabetes Statistics In India
Brown Sugar
Brown sugar is a type of refined sugar made by mixing white sugar with molasses, commonly used as a sweetener in cooking. Brown sugar has a similar glycemic index to white sugar, which means it can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels if consumed in excessive amounts.
This can be particularly dangerous for diabetics, who need to closely manage their blood sugar levels.
Additionally, brown sugar contains added molasses, which may add a small number of minerals such as calcium and iron, but not enough to make a significant impact on overall health.
Studies have shown that consuming added sugars such as brown sugar can increase the risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease and obesity.
Therefore, diabetics should limit their intake of brown sugar and opt for alternative sweeteners with a lower glycemic index and less processed.
Also Read: Types of diabetes and Best Treatment For Diabetes
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, when it comes to managing blood sugar levels for diabetics, it's essential to pay attention to the type and amount of sweeteners consumed.
Sugar, jaggery, honey, and brown sugar are all sweeteners that are commonly used in food and beverages, but they have different impacts on blood sugar levels and potential health risks/benefits.
It's recommended that diabetics should limit their intake of added sugars and opt for alternative sweeteners that have a lower glycemic index and are less processed, and always consult with a doctor or dietitian before making any changes to their diet.
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