Diabetes often requires strict diets to manage and as such, even finding the right drink isn’t always an easy task. As diabetes continues to ravage the globe, more information arises every now and then raising even more confusion as to what is true and what is false pertaining to diabetes.

For instance, a lot of debates have emerged on whether drinks like coffee are helpful or actually harmful to insulin resistance or whether zero-calorie diet sodas cause weight gain, among several other emerging issues.

Nevertheless, similar experts have also often recommended several specific drinks, banking on their healthy nutritional composition that would otherwise scale down the diabetic manifestations.

More Drink Suggestions for Diabetics

Milk

It is no secret that milk is among the most treasured drinks in the world for its natural and healthy benefits. It is therefore not just a drink for infants but can also fulfill other health benefits to other individuals such as those with diabetes, among others.

For instance, consuming milk provides the body with several nutrients and minerals such as vitamin D, calcium, magnesium, and potassium, all of which the body requires to operate efficiently.

Additionally, several published studies have also indicated that milk may boost weight loss. For instance, in one of the studies, there were 322 individuals trying to slim down some of whom had type 2 diabetes while others heart disease.

The results indicated that those who drank the most milk every day, which was about 12 ounces daily, shed about five more pounds over the study period than those who had the lowest daily intake averaging half a glass daily.

Experts, therefore, recommend at least 2 to 3 daily servings of dairy products, this should include low-fat or fat-free milk for associated health benefits.

This probably sounds a bit too much but with proper planning, it can be achieved by as simple a routine as drinking a glass with breakfast or choosing dairy for desserts like sugar-free pudding or mousse, or yogurt, fruit parfait, among others.

Whichever mode of consumption you would prefer, 12 grams of carbohydrate must always be factored in every 8 ounces consumed.

In fact, you can even make yourself some low-fat chocolate milk, if you are craving some chocolate. Just add cocoa powder and some zero-calorie sweetener to your low-fat milk and your treat is ready.

Sternly avoid purchasing chocolate milk from the stores or any supplier as some of them usually contain lots of sugar. You should especially try chocolate milk after a workout.

Almond Milk

For those individuals who are lactose-intolerant or dislike dairy products, unsweetened Almond Milk would be a great alternative. Some of the dairy and almond milk composing elements are virtually identical such as fat and salt contents.

Cow’s milk may often have slightly higher protein content; however, this is quite insignificant and would not affect healthy diet routines. It is generally agreed by experts that almond milk is often slightly healthier on the basis that it is plant-based and contains Vitamin D in abundance, unlike Cow’s milk.

A break down on the composition of unsweetened almond milk:

One Cup (8 Ounces)

• 40 Calories
• 1 gram protein
• 3 grams fat
• 2 grams carbohydrate
• 1 gram fiber
• Less than 1 gram of sugar

Tea

Tea has been a trendy health topic for several years particularly green and black tea with regards to healthy drinks for diabetics. These tea types usually have abundant antioxidants and no calories. These coupled with the big flavor make it perfect and easy to consume.

A Chinese study conducted specifically on black tea indicated the highest levels of polysaccharides, which slows the process of sugar absorption into the bloodstream.

Another study by German experts also indicated that having 4 cups of tea daily could immensely lower the risk of developing diabetes by at least 16%. Tea has been found to have numerous other health benefits like reducing the risk of stroke, and heart disease, among others.

The tea however needs to be properly prepared with the exception of the following tea drinks which have a lot of added sugar that may affect diabetics negatively;

• Sweetened tea
• Bottled ice teas

Unsweet Tea

This is the most excellent beverage choice for diabetics as it has zero calories and no sugar. Unsweetened tea, therefore, does not in any way impact blood sugar levels and can be healthily and safely utilized by someone with Type 2 diabetes as a beverage of choice.

With the big flavor, you just add a little bit of lemon squeeze and some fresh mint for a tasty drink. Subsequently, such tea would also contribute to body hydration without the risk of a spike in blood sugar levels.

It is important to remember to avoid using sugar or full-fat milk and cream on any of your tea drinks to full proof them against affecting diabetics.

Coffee

A number of studies have been conducted on the association between coffee and diabetics. One such study found that chlorogenic acid, a chemical compound found in coffee, may facilitate the slow absorption of glucose into the bloodstream. As such, their discoveries indicated that optimal coffee drinkers are at a lower risk for developing Type 2 diabetes.

Another research also discovered that for those already diagnosed with diabetes, coffee could raise their blood sugar levels or make it hard for the body to process sugar.

It all, therefore, comes down to an individual’s health status and as such how the coffee would affect their blood sugar.

However, some of the coffee additives like sugar, sweetened creamers, and high-fat milk among other unhealthy foodstuffs can raise blood sugar levels and contribute to weight gain. As such, they should not be part of your coffee intake.

2 to 3 cups a day of coffee is probably fine for the majority. However, any complications like trouble controlling blood sugar after drinking may warrant a cut down on coffee consumption to determine and fix the risk issue.

Fruit Juice

Most people quickly associate juices with sweet sugary drinks. However, as a diabetic, you should avoid juices with tons of added sugar in them as these could disrupt blood sugar balance.

Low-sugar versions of juices such as cranberry, grape juice, and pomegranate should form some excellent choices for your diabetic drinks. They are also high in antioxidants to aid in boosting health. The juice portions must however be keenly regulated as juices contain carbohydrates and fruits some natural sugars.

Real fruit is however rather a better deal than juices. These are usually because of several reasons one of which is the healthiest compositions and associated health benefits. For instance, a 4-ounce serving of 100% orange juice compared to a small fresh orange contains the following;

• 4-Ounce Orange Juice Small Orange Fruit
• 56 calories 45 calories
• 12 grams carbohydrates 11 grams carbohydrates
• No fiber 2 grams blood-sugar-controlling fiber

Juice lovers have the better option of just eating fruits. However, they may also drink low-sodium veggie juice. These have lower concentrations of carbohydrates and calories than fruit juices.

A 4-ounce serving with a meal daily, repeated for at least 3 to 4 days should register significant changes with a blood sugar level rise of about 15 points or more. If little or no change is registered, you can always add a little more juice to improve outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can diabetics drink Coke Zero?

Individuals with diabetes should avoid coke and many other soft drinks. This is because, despite being sugar-free, Coke Zero still has alternative sugar substitutes which may not be healthy for managing or reducing blood sugar levels. Alternative drinks should be considered.

What is the best way to hydrate for people with diabetes?

The best way to hydrate for any individual is to drink plenty of fluids. These fluids are however limited for diabetics who should focus on water or sugar/calorie-free beverages like sugar-free lemonade, seltzer water, and tea, among others.

While hydrating, you should also adhere to the following guidelines to stay hydrated always;

• Keep cool during exercising
• Regularly monitor blood glucose level
• Be conscious of heat exhaustion
• Keep insulin cool

What drink lowers blood sugar?

There are several drinks that can lower blood sugar level. One of these is tea, specifically chamomile. This was proven in a study where participants who drank a cup of this tea after every meal, three times per day and for a consecutive six weeks, registered a reduction in blood sugar levels, insulin, and insulin resistance.

Is alkaline water good for diabetes?

According to several studies conducted over the years, experts have indicated that consuming water with a pH of between 9.5 to 11.5 have often proven effective in lowering random blood glucose levels, especially among those with Diabetes mellitus Type 2.

Is Gatorade OK for diabetics?

Gatorade has a very high glycemic index scoring up to 89. As such, it can be rapidly digested, absorbed into the bloodstream, and metabolized implying that it could result in fast and significant blood sugar fluctuations in the body.

It should therefore be avoided as it could result in catastrophic health complications among diabetics who need to stay clear of sudden and substantial blood glucose changes.

Can drinking lemon water help manage diabetes?

In some way, drinking lemon water may indirectly impact the blood sugar levels of diabetics and influence them to come down to normal ranges. However, lemon water can help prevent untimely spikes in blood sugar.

Can blood sugar levels be lowered by drinking lots of water?

Most definitely, water absorbed into the bloodstream essentially dilutes the sugar concentrations lowering blood sugar levels in the process. The low blood sugar levels further reduce insulin resistance in the bloodstream taming hunger cravings.

What should be the golden drink for lowering blood sugar?

There are numerous options and remedies to choose from. However, my favorite is a mixture of two tablespoons of gooseberry juice and a pinch of turmeric. This remedy will effectively keep your blood sugar levels in check. You should drink it in the mornings for maximum benefits.

Can individuals with diabetes drink ginger ale?

Yes, but you have to ensure that you stick only to the spice itself and avoid drinks with loads of sugar.

For instance, consuming processed drinks like ginger ale and ginger beer should be avoided at all costs. This is because these processed drinks come loaded with lots of sugar which can be problematic for diabetics.

Is cranberry juice good for diabetics?

Cranberry juice is among the few drink choices that are excellent for diabetics as long as the juice is sugar-free. This way, it can aid manage diabetes by reducing side effects while also increasing the affected people’s quality of life due to the abundance of antioxidants.

Is coconut water good for diabetes?

Tender coconut water usually registers low on glycemic index. This coupled with low natural sugar, coconut water should be safe for diabetics as it would not cause a spike in blood sugar levels or significant impacts on diabetes symptoms. It is therefore good for diabetics.

Does okra water help reduce blood sugar?

This is a widely contested debate. However, some information has emerged claiming that drinking ‘okra water’ can often help lower blood sugar levels among diabetics.

Making the ‘okra water’ is quite simple. Cut up okra into several pieces, set them in water, and let it soak overnight. In the morning the drink is ready and therefore can be consumed safely.

What is the healthiest drink besides water?

A healthy drink should encourage positive health outcomes even for sick individuals like diabetics.

Some of the most commonly recommended and healthiest drinks besides water include:

• Green tea
• Mint tea
• Soy or Almond milk
• Fat-free milk
• Black coffee
• Homemade smoothies
• Orange or lemon juice
• Hot chocolate

What kind of milk can diabetics drink?

Diabetics can drink most common milk categories. A cow’s milk is substantially significant for diabetics, however, it usually contains carbohydrates which must always be factored into the entire diet plan to avoid complications.

Skim milk can also be an alternative as it can often have low calories and low-fat contents. However, for lactose intolerant diabetics, almond milk would be a good choice.

What is best to drink first thing in the morning?

As soon as you wake up in the morning, most people often feel a little thirsty from water deprivation all night. As such, water is the best beverage to drink first and foremost in the morning to aid in body rehydration before anything is done.

Is it good for diabetics to consume too much water?

Drinking enough amounts of water can really boost diabetes management. While water hydrates the body, it does not in any way raise blood sugar levels. In fact, water may lower blood sugar levels by eliminating excess glucose through urine or diluting the blood to register low blood sugar concentrations.

What is the recommended amount of water a diabetic can drink in a day?

Individuals with diabetes and essentially everyone are always advised to drink plenty of fluids. As such, women can often drink an average of 7 glasses while men can go to 8 or 9 glasses per day for noticeable health changes.

What should you drink before bed to lower blood sugar?

The most recommended drink before bed is that of apple cider vinegar. As such, a diabetic taking one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in warm water before sleep should be able to control their blood glucose levels. The drink will further help in the regulation of fasting blood sugar levels in the mornings.