How to Pick a Healthy Beverage if You Have Diabetes

Sweetened drinks can lead to rapid blood sugar spikes, which may pose challenges for people with diabetes.

Written by Marisa Taylor Karas | Reviewed by Mera Goodman, MD, FAAP

Published on February 20, 2024

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Sugar-sweetened beverages can pose a challenge for people with diabetes. Sugar is absorbed by the body quickly, which can lead to rapid blood sugar spikes. Water is the best drink for people with diabetes, but there are other factors to consider, such as whether the drink offers fiber or other nutrients.

References

American Diabetes Association. (2023). Rethink your drink.

American Diabetes Association. (n.d.). Reading food labels.

View All References (5)

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American Diabetes Association. (n.d.). What can I drink?

American Heart Association. (2021). Added sugars.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Get the facts: Added sugars.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Carb counting.

Crowe, A. (n.d.). Why you should drink more water. American Diabetes Association.

GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.

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