Diabetes develops with a person's body can no longer produce insulin or use insulin efficiently in the body. The hormone insulin helps in the conversion process, changing sugar, starches and food into energy sources. Genetics, environmental factors, weight and inactivity play roles in the development of this condition. The American Diabetes Association says about 23.6 million U.S. adults and children have diabetes. One of the ways to manage this health condition is with dietary changes. Diabetics often wonder if they can drink juice as part of a healthy diet.
Carbohydrates Affect Glucose Levels
Before considering whether or not diabetics can drink juice, you should consider how juice and other carbohydrates affect blood glucose levels. Eating foods loaded with carbohydrates increases blood glucose levels, while eating small amounts of carbs decreases blood glucose. It is important to consume the right amount of carbohydrates to keep blood glucose levels balanced.
General Dietary Guidelines
Doctors don't prescribe specific diabetic diets to patients, but instead recommend dietary changes to control blood sugar, especially if patients need to lose excess weight. They suggest registered dietitians work with diabetic patients to create individualized meal plans that cover daily meals and snacks. The American Academy of Family Physicians says diabetics consume 40 to 60 percent of their calories from carbohydrates, 20 percent of their calories from protein, and less than 30 percent from fat. Diabetics can drink juice as part of a healthy diet.
Best Juices to Drink
Diabetics can drink juice in moderation, sticking to low glycemic index carbohydrates. Low glycemic index carbohydrates won't spike blood sugar levels. The Australian Fruit Juice Association says these types of juices include orange, pineapple and apple juices. The North Fulton Internal Medicine Group says to try tomato and vegetable juices, lemon and lime juices, and canned fresh fruit juices without added sugars. A half cup of juice equals one serving.
Fruit's Better Than Juice
Although diabetics can drink juice, the best carbohydrate sources are fresh fruit and vegetables. The American Diabetes Association says these carbohydrates contain vitamins A, C, and E, calcium, potassium, fiber and magnesium. Good carbohydrates include dark, leafy green vegetables, citrus fruits like grapefruit, oranges, lemons and limes, berries and tomatoes. A healthy diabetic diet consists of 3 to 5 servings of vegetables and 2 to 4 servings of fruits.
Exercise
Whether or not diabetics decide to drink juice, exercise is an important part of a healthy diabetes lifestyle. Exercise works with diet to maintain consistent blood sugar levels and also helps overweight diabetics lose excess pounds. Diabetes should get 30 minutes of physical activity a day, such as walking and low-impact aerobics. Diabetics can consult personal trainers and nutritionists who specialize in working with diabetes to create comprehensive diet and exercise plans.
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