Per Can/Bottle — Diabetes Nutrition Facts

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https://www.bluecircle.foundation/food/ginger-beer

ginger beer

CARBS

39g

PROTEINS

FATS

Ginger beer is a carbonated soft drink flavored primarily with ginger and sweetened with sugar. It is not advisable for individuals managing diabetes due to its high carbohydrate content, which primarily comes from sugars.

Quantity: 355ml

Glycemic Index: High

Glycemic Load: High

Fiber: 0g

Key Nutrients: None

Health Impact: Ginger beer can cause rapid increases in blood sugar levels due to its high sugar content, leading to significant insulin responses and potentially longer digestion times due to carbonation.

💉 Suggested Bolus

If consuming, consider pre-bolusing insulin to manage the anticipated spike in glucose levels.

🍽️ Best Paired With (Veg)

Grilled Tofu Salad – High in protein and low in carbs, helping to maintain blood sugar control.
Zucchini Noodles with Pesto – Low-carb alternative to pasta, providing satiety without the sugar spike.

🍽️ Best Paired With (Non Veg)

Grilled Chicken Breast with Steamed Vegetables – Lean protein and fiber aid in slow digestion and stable blood glucose levels.
Beef Stir-fry with Mixed Greens – Protein-rich and low in carbohydrates, supporting steady blood sugar management.

🥄 Smart Substitutes

Diet Ginger Ale – Contains zero carbs and sugars, reducing the risk of blood sugar spikes.
Sparkling Water with a Splash of Lemon or Lime – Offers a refreshing taste with minimal to no impact on blood sugar levels.
Herbal Tea with Fresh Ginger – Provides the ginger flavor without added sugars, supporting stable glucose levels.

⏱ Blood Sugar Timeline

0–15 min: Minimal impact as substitutes contain little to no carbohydrates.
30–60 min: Stable blood sugar levels expected due to absence of sugars.
2–3 hr: Continued stability in blood sugar, with no late glycemic response.

“Many in the low-carb diabetes community find that avoiding sugary drinks like traditional ginger beer helps in better overall management of their glucose levels, especially when combined with consistent monitoring and low-carb eating.”
— BCDF community member

🧠 Lowering Impact Tip

Opt for a sugar-free or diet version of ginger beer, which contains artificial sweeteners instead of sugar.

🤔 FAQs about ginger beer

Can I drink ginger beer if I have diabetes?

Traditional ginger beer is high in sugars. Opt for sugar-free or low-carb alternatives like diet ginger ale or infuse water with fresh ginger.

What are the effects of ginger on blood sugar?

Ginger can help in managing blood sugar levels due to its anti-inflammatory properties, but it should be consumed without added sugars.

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