Diabetes is a type of metabolism disorder in which the body is unable to properly utilize the glucose and store them. As a result, the glucose backs up in the bloodstream causing one’s blood sugar level to rise. So, why is it important for a diabetes patient to mind what he drinks? Insulin is a hormone that is produced by the pancreas to assist the movement of glucose from the blood into our cells. For patients with diabetes, the pancreas is unable to produce little or no insulin. As a consequence, the glucose builds up in the blood and thereafter passes out of the body as urine. The body loses one of its main sources of energy. This means that you have to make sure there isn’t any sugar in your drinks. However, first, let’s take a look at diabetes before jumping on the drink options. According to modern medical science, diabetes can be broadly divided into three sections: type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, and gestational diabetes. Let’s take a quick look quick at each section to know more.

Type 1
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder. It occurs when the immune system that is responsible for fighting infection turns against the body. The immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. That is why patients with type 1 diabetes are recommended to insulin daily in order to lead a healthy life.

Type 2
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, with about 90–95 percent of diagnosed diabetes being type 2. The type 2 diabetes is linked to obesity, older age, and family history. Patients suffering from type 2 diabetes are able to produce enough insulin from their pancreas; however, for some unknown reasons their cells are unable to utilize the insulin efficiently.

Gestational diabetes
Gestational diabetes is more common among Africans, American Indians, Hispanics, and among women with a family history of diabetes. It develops only during pregnancy. Patients who have had gestational diabetes have an increased chance of developing type 2 diabetes by up to 20 to 50 percent.

Which are the best and recommended drinks for diabetes?
Patients with diabetes need to be aware of the number of carbohydrates he/she is ingesting and how it can affect the blood sugar of the patient. When it comes to drinks for diabetes, the zero or low-calorie drinks are typically the best bet. One may add some lime juice to her/his drink to get a refreshing, low-calorie kick. Here are some of the most diabetic friendly beverage options.

Tea
Tea has a positive effect on our health; this makes tea one of the suitable drinks for diabetes. Tea helps in reducing blood pressure and lowers the LDL cholesterol level of the patient. Drinking tea along with other drinks for diabetes may reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. Patients may have any type of tea, be it green, black, or herbal. However, should avoid applying sweeteners. For a refreshing taste one can also enjoy iced tea.

Water
The human body is composed of two-thirds of water. It is one of the best drinks for diabetes patients to stay hydrated as it doesn’t raise the blood sugar level. Drinking enough water eliminate the chance dehydration and eliminate the excess glucose through urine. If the patient is unable to drink fresh water, then he/she can create some variety by adding lime, orange, or lemon for flavoring. Many add sprigs of flavorful herbs like mint, basil, or lemon balm. One may also add a couple of frozen raspberries into his drink.

Coffee
Coffee is also one of the few drinks for diabetes that might help in lowering the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Researchers have seen a considerable drop in the level of risk for developing diabetes for people who drink at least two cups of coffee per day. This can be applied to both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffees. Like tea, patients with diabetes should make sure that the drink is unsweetened and avid adding milk or sugar.

Vegetable juice
Vegetable juices or green smoothies form excellent options as drinks for diabetes. However, patients must make sure that the juice is sugar-free and juice content is 100 percent. One may also choose vegetable juice as these can be prepared at home. Mix green leafy vegetable, celery, berries, and cucumbers and use a hand juicer to get the juice out of it. A glass of vegetable juice contains a flavorful supply of vitamins and minerals.

Low-fat milk
Milk contains essential nutrients and valuable minerals. However, they are known to add carbohydrate to the diet. Low-fat, unsweetened, or skimmed milk is one of the most popular drinks for diabetes. Although patients should avoid drinking more than two glasses per day. Dairy-free, low-sugared coconut milk, or fortified milk are also good options.

While choosing drinks for diabetic patients, keep it as simple as you can. Pick water at whatever point conceivable; unsweetened tea and skimmed milk are also great choices along with fruit and vegetable juices. Avoid artificial flavoring or sugar, but go ahead if you need to add natural substances like fragrant herbs, lemon slices, or crushed berries.