Chai
CARBS
10g
PROTEINS
2g
FATS
3g
Quantity: 250ml
Glycemic Index: Medium
Glycemic Load: 5
Fiber: 0g
Key Nutrients: Calcium from milk
Health Impact: The sugar and milk in chai can cause a moderate rise in blood sugar levels, requiring careful management of insulin response and digestion time.
💉 Suggested Bolus
Consider pre-bolusing insulin or using a dual-wave bolus to manage the delayed sugar absorption from milk.
🍽️ Best Paired With (Veg)
- Mixed nuts – Provides healthy fats and proteins, which help in moderating blood glucose levels.
- Cheese platter – Offers a good source of protein and fat with minimal impact on blood sugar.
- Avocado slices – Rich in monounsaturated fats that can help maintain blood sugar stability.
🍽️ Best Paired With (Non Veg)
- Grilled chicken strips – High in protein and low in carbs, supporting stable glucose levels.
- Smoked salmon – Provides omega-3 fatty acids and protein, beneficial for blood sugar control.
- Boiled eggs – A zero-carb option that helps in sustaining energy and regulating blood sugar spikes.
🥄 Smart Substitutes
- Unsweetened almond milk chai – Reduces sugar intake and provides a lower carbohydrate alternative.
- Chai with coconut milk – Offers a creamy texture with fewer carbs and sugars, supporting stable blood glucose levels.
- Herbal chai (no black tea) – Eliminates caffeine and reduces carb content, aiding in better blood sugar management.
⏱ Blood Sugar Timeline
- 0–15 min: Minimal impact as long as no sugar or high-carb dairy is added.
- 30–60 min: Stable blood sugar if consumed without sweeteners or high-carb milk.
- 2–3 hr: Continued stability in blood sugar, especially beneficial if paired with low-carb snacks or meals.
— BCDF community member
🧠 Lowering Impact Tip
Use a sugar substitute and opt for full-fat, unsweetened milk or a low-carb milk alternative like almond or coconut milk.
🤔 FAQs about Chai
Can I drink chai if I am watching my carb intake?
Yes, you can enjoy chai by using unsweetened almond or coconut milk and avoiding added sugars.
Is chai beneficial for diabetes management?
Chai can be part of a diabetes management plan if prepared with low-carb milk alternatives and without added sugars.
What are the best times to drink chai for blood sugar control?
Drinking chai during or after meals can help in moderating potential blood sugar spikes, especially if paired with low-carb meals.
Have a question about Chai or any other topic related to diabetes?
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