Diabetics can chew sugarcane or drink a glass of fresh sugarcane juice in moderation.

1. Health Benefits of Sugarcane Juice

Due to its relatively high natural sugar content, sugarcane juice is good for hydrating the body and is an energy booster. The antioxidants in sugarcane are good for skin health. The electrolytes in sugarcane help the body stay hydrated. In addition, sugarcane is rich in fiber, which can prevent constipation.

According to studies, drinking sugarcane juice helps keep the skin healthy, has the function of increasing energy, supporting during pregnancy and preventing tooth decay. Sugarcane juice also treats fever disorders in children and adolescents.

According to Ayurveda (traditional Indian medicine), the antioxidants in sugarcane juice are effective in treating jaundice and boosting the immune system. Research has also shown that sugarcane juice is a rich source of flavonoids and phenolic antioxidants in its pure, unprocessed form. These antioxidants fight free radical damage in the body and provide many health benefits.

The electrolytes in sugarcane are beneficial in balancing sodium and potassium, which is great for keeping the body hydrated.

According to the American Diabetes Association, sugarcane juice is a low-glycemic food. Sugarcane has a nutritional profile similar to wheatgrass containing iron, calcium, chlorophyll, B vitamins, potassium and magnesium. Sugarcane juice is also rich in complex carbohydrates and very low in simple sugars, from 10-15%.

Test-tube studies on sugarcane extract show that its polyphenol antioxidants may benefit pancreatic cells to produce more insulin, helping to control blood sugar levels.

2. Good sugarcane juice recipes for diabetics

Sucrose or cane sugar and glucose increase insulin levels. Therefore, people with diabetes should drink sugarcane juice in moderation because it has a low glycemic index but a relatively high glycemic load.

According to MSc. Sarah Gaur – Clinical Nutritionist and Dietitian from Symbiosis Institute of Health Sciences, Pune (India), sugarcane juice should only be given to diabetics if their blood sugar levels drop suddenly and sharply. Because this is the fastest form of sugar that the body can convert into energy.

People with diabetes can chew sugarcane or drink a glass of fresh sugarcane juice in moderation. By chewing sugarcane cut into pieces, one can get maximum benefits and some fiber without eating too much.

Expert Sarah Gaur suggests 2 drinks using sugarcane juice, diabetics should refer to:

Ginger Sugarcane Juice Iced Mocktail

Thanks to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immune-boosting properties, ginger sugarcane juice can help prevent certain diseases such as diabetes, liver disease, etc. This drink not only provides energy but also maintains a healthy and energetic body.

Ingredients for 2 servings:

• Ginger juice: ⅓ tablespoon
• Sugarcane juice: 1 ⅔ cup
• Lemon juice: ⅛ tablespoon
• Sea salt: ⅛ teaspoon

Directions:

• Mix all ingredients in a jar/bowl and stir until dissolved. Make sure there are no salt grains or lumps.
• Pour mixture into a freezer mold. Freeze mixture for 2-3 hours.
• Blend frozen juice in a blender until smooth.
• Enjoy iced mocktail.

Tropical Sugarcane Coconut Mocktail

A refreshing drink made of coconut water mixed with refreshing sugarcane juice is good for diabetics. It is important that diabetics consume sugarcane juice in moderation to reap its nutritional benefits.

Refreshing drink consisting of coconut water mixed with cool sugarcane juice.

Ingredients for 2 servings:

• Sugarcane juice: 2½ cups
• Salt: ⅛ teaspoon
• Coconut water: 1 ½ cups
• Mint: 2-4 leaves
• Lemon slice: 1 (optional)

Directions:

• Pour sugarcane juice and coconut water into a sealed jar and shake well.
• Keep it in the fridge and let it cool.
• Add a pinch of salt to the mixture and mix well.
• Pour the mocktail into a glass, garnish with mint leaves and lemon slice.
• Enjoy while it is still cool.