Diabetes comes in two main forms: type 1 and type 2. Both result in high blood sugar levels if left untreated. Insulin, a hormone that helps our cells absorb glucose, is either nonexistent or in short supply. A person with diabetes is unable to use insulin properly. This causes sugars to build up in the blood. It can be dangerous if it is not properly managed. Different drinks and can affect blood sugar levels in different ways, when a person has diabetes.

Things to look out for when choosing what to drink

People with diabetes have different bodily needs, so there are no exact dietary rules. However, some tips can help.

To make it easier to control blood sugar, it is important to:

       Eat a balanced diet and manage the amount of carbohydrate consumed

      Keep carbohydrate levels consistent from day to day

     Consume managed amounts of carbohydrate, because the brain and body need some carbohydrate to function.

Paying attention to food labels and nutritional facts can provide important information. Labels should state the serving size and carbohydrate content of any drink.

The best drinks for people with diabetes

Water

The best drink for anyone is water. Proper hydration influences physical and mental health, and every system in the body needs water.

Signs of thirst can also be mistaken for hunger or cravings for sweets. This leads some people to reach for soft drinks and juices. If this craving occurs, it is best to drink a glass of water first and then see how the body reacts.

Milks

Sometimes the body wants more than just water. Milk may be a good option. Fat-free cow or soy milk, rice milk, or unsweetened nut milks can provide calories, vitamins, and minerals. It is important to choose the unsweetened varieties.

Milks will add carbohydrate to the diet, and it must be accounted for in any meal plan.

Teas

While soft drinks or sugary coffees are a popular refreshment for many people, those with diabetes need healthier options.

Green tea may decrease the risk of diabetes.

Green tea is suitable for people with diabetes. It is rich in polyphenols, and some research has linked the intake of green tea to a decreased risk of diabetes and increased ability to process sugars.

The worst drinks for people with diabetes

Soda and energy drinks

Sodas and other sugar-sweetened beverages can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.

For people who already have diabetes, this type of drink provides large amounts of sugar and requires little digestion. Drinking sodas without healthy food can lead to large spikes in blood sugar levels.

As it is important to spread carbohydrate intake out evenly, it would be best to avoid or limit the intake of soda and sugar-sweetened energy drinks.

Fruit cocktails

Sugar-sweetened beverages like fruit punch may taste like fruit juice, but they often contain high levels of sugar or corn syrup. These ingredients can cause the same spikes in blood sugar levels as soda.

They provide a high concentration of carbohydrate but far less nutritional value than pure fruit juices. Fruit juices can be enjoyed in moderation, but fruit cocktails should be avoided.