Whether you have diabetes or not, eating healthy is always good for your wellness. But diabetics have to take more care to manage their blood sugar levels. So, the diabetes diet mostly consists of foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy products. Sweets and red meat are best avoided. They can start their day on a healthy note by slipping in morning drinks for diabetics. An expert shares the best drinks diabetics can have on an empty stomach, to start their day on a high note!
Best morning drinks for diabetics
If you are a diabetic, you can begin your day with some of the best morning drinks. But it would be best to consult your health expert before incorporating these in your daily diet.
1. Warm water with lemon
A glass of warm water with a little bit of lemon helps in detoxification and may aid in weight management, which is beneficial for diabetics, says Dr D.P. Singh, consultant, internal medicine, Regency Superspeciality Hospital, Lucknow.
2. Cinnamon tea
Cinnamon is known to improve insulin sensitivity, so brewing cinnamon sticks into tea can help to regulate blood sugar levels.
3. Bitter gourd juice
Bitter gourd has compounds that can mimic the action of insulin, which may help in lowering blood sugar levels. Having it in the morning can be particularly effective, the expert tells Health Shots.
Also read: Karela juice for diabetes: Best options to keep blood sugar levels in check
4. Fenugreek water
Fenugreek seeds are rich in soluble fiber, which can help to control blood sugar. You can soak fenugreek seeds in water overnight and drink the water in the morning.
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5. Amla juice
Amla, which is also known as Indian gooseberry, is a vitamin C-rich fruit that may help in managing blood sugar and strengthening the immune system, crucial for diabetics.
6. Aloe vera juice
Aloe vera is good for skin, helps with wounds. It also has hypoglycemic effects, so drinking a small amount of aloe vera juice on an empty stomach can help to regulate blood sugar.
7. Basil tea
Basil leaves are known for having anti-diabetic properties, so steep fresh basil leaves into a tea to help you in managing blood sugar levels.
8. Green smoothies
You can use green vegetables like kale or spinach, with protein powder to make a healthy smoothie. It can give you extra fiber and nutrients apart from keeping you hydrated.
On an empty stomach, the effectiveness of these drinks is heightened because there are no other foods in the system to interfere with their absorption. The body can absorb the nutrients and compounds more efficiently, potentially leading to better blood sugar control, says Dr Singh.
Drinks that diabetes patients should avoid
Sugary drinks like regular soda and sweetened teas should be removed from your diet. They can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels. These drinks are high in empty calories and offer very less nutritional value. Here are some drinks diabetics must avoid or have in moderation.
1. Alcohol
Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to low blood sugar in some cases and can interfere with diabetes medications. It’s important to drink alcohol in moderation and consult a doctor for guidance.
2. Energy drinks
Energy drinks are often loaded with sugar and caffeine, which can have adverse effects on blood sugar and overall health.
3. Flavoured coffee and lattes
Coffee drinks with added syrups, sugar and whipped cream can be high in calories and sugar, causing blood sugar spikes.
Sticking to natural and unprocessed drinks is generally a better choice for diabetes management. You should also have a good amount of water because it won’t raise your blood sugar levels. When blood sugar levels go up, you can end up with dehydration.
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