Per Cup — Diabetes Nutrition Facts

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https://www.bluecircle.foundation/food/sweet-tes

Sweet tes

CARBS

High

PROTEINS

Low

FATS

Low

Sweet teas are generally high in sugars and are not advisable for individuals managing diabetes due to their high carbohydrate content.

Quantity: 250 ml

Glycemic Index: High

Glycemic Load: High

Fiber: None

Key Nutrients: Minimal

Health Impact: Sweet teas can cause rapid increases in blood sugar levels due to their high sugar content, leading to significant insulin responses and prolonged digestion times.

💉 Suggested Bolus

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

🍽️ Best Paired With (Veg)

Grilled tofu salad – High in protein and low in carbs, complementing the low-carb drink choice.
Zucchini noodles with pesto – Offers a satisfying meal with low glycemic impact.

🍽️ Best Paired With (Non Veg)

Grilled chicken breast – Provides a high-protein, low-carb pairing that helps stabilize blood sugar levels.
Baked salmon with herbs – Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and low in carbs, supporting heart health and blood sugar control.

🥄 Smart Substitutes

Unsweetened iced tea – Eliminates added sugars and reduces carbohydrate intake, helping to maintain stable blood glucose levels.
Herbal tea – Provides a flavorful alternative without any carbohydrates, supporting blood sugar management.
Water with lemon or lime – Offers a refreshing taste with minimal impact on blood sugar.

⏱ Blood Sugar Timeline

0–15 min: Minimal impact on blood sugar as substitutes contain little to no carbohydrates.
30–60 min: Stable blood sugar levels due to absence of sugar spikes that are common with sweet teas.
2–3 hr: Continued stable blood glucose levels, supporting overall metabolic health.

“Many in the low-carb community find that completely eliminating sugary drinks and opting for natural, unsweetened alternatives significantly aids in managing diabetes and maintaining energy levels throughout the day.”
— BCDF community member

🧠 Lowering Impact Tip

Opt for unsweetened tea and use a non-nutritive sweetener if sweetness is desired.

🤔 FAQs about Sweet tes

Can I drink sweet tea if I use artificial sweeteners?

While artificial sweeteners do not raise blood sugar levels like sugar does, some people may still experience cravings or other side effects. It's best to enjoy naturally flavored drinks without added sweeteners.

How can I make unsweetened tea taste better?

Try adding natural flavors such as slices of lemon, lime, or cucumber, or steep the tea with herbs like mint or ginger for enhanced taste without added sugars.

Have a question about Sweet tes or any other topic related to diabetes?

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