Diabetes And Jaggery: Can Diabetic Patients Consume Jaggery?

Jaggery is a traditional sweetener commonly used in Indian cuisine and is known to have health benefits for people with diabetes. However, debate continues as to whether jaggery can be a healthy alternative to sugar for diabetics. India accounts for 70% of global jaggery production and is the largest exporter to countries such as Sri Lanka, Nepal, the USA, Indonesia, etc. 

Jaggery is made from sugarcane or date juice and is used to prepare desserts and various dishes. Ayurveda has been using it for thousands of years. In this blog post, we will look at the scientific aspect of whether jaggery is good for your diabetes management plan. Read the blog to learn more about diabetes and jaggery.

Table Of Contents

1. Diabetes And Jaggery

2  Can Diabetic Patients Take Jaggery?

3. The Glycemic Index Of Jaggery 

4. Which Is Better For Diabetes, Jaggery Or Honey?

5. Is Black Jaggery Good For Diabetes

6. The Final Say

7. FAQs

8. References 

Diabetes And Jaggery

Jaggery, a traditional non-centrifugal cane sugar consumed in some countries in Asia and the Americas, has been a topic of interest regarding its impact on diabetes. While jaggery is often considered a more natural sweetener than refined sugar, it primarily consists of sucrose and glucose.

Organic jaggery does not cause the same reaction in the human body as white sugar. Although jaggery contains sugar, it is less dangerous than white sugar for people with diabetes. Jaggery also contains iron, calcium and phosphate, which are not found in white sugar. Unlike the commonly used white sugar, jaggery is good for diabetics. 

Also Read: Jaggery Powder: A Natural Alternative To Refined Sugar

Can Diabetic Patients Take Jaggery? 

Before answering the very common questions, “Will jaggery increase blood sugar?” or “Can diabetic patients have jaggery?”, you must ponder over several key factors. Choosing natural sweeteners over artificial ones is usually healthier. Therefore, organic jaggery with fewer chemicals is better than processed sugar. 

Despite its benefits, jaggery intake must be capped. It may seem like a better pick than refined sugar, but eating more jaggery can increase blood sugar levels. 

For diabetics, 1-2 teaspoons of jaggery daily can satisfy sugar cravings. At the same time, keeping a close eye on how it affects your blood glucose levels is important. As mentioned, if you have diabetes, it is always ideal to consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet. 

The Glycemic Index Of Jaggery 

The Glycemic Index (GI) ranks food by its effect on blood sugar levels. Lower GI scores are better for diabetics. The difference between the glycemic index of jaggery and sugar is stark.  Jaggery’s GI is estimated at 84.4, which shows a relatively high sugar content. In contrast, the GI of sugar varies depending on the type. 

For instance, white sugar has a higher GI compared to brown sugar or certain natural sweeteners. White sugar typically has a GI ranging from 60 to 65, while brown sugar may have a slightly lower GI due to its molasses content.

Foods with a high GI push up blood sugar levels sharply hence, its intake must be controlled by those afflicted with diabetes. 

Also Read: 20 Foods With A Low-Glycemic Index For Diabetes

Which Is Better For Diabetes, Jaggery Or Honey?

Diet plays an important role in treating diabetes. Eating the right foods at the right times is important to maintain acceptable blood sugar levels. Knowing what foods to eat, when to eat, and how much to eat can help you control your blood sugar levels and keep them within the normal range.

Also Read: Brown Sugar Vs. Jaggery: The Differences and Benefits

Consuming sugars like honey, sugar, and foods like jaggery significantly impact blood sugar levels. A diabetic's daily sugar intake (honey, jaggery or simple sugar) must be adjusted.

Therefore, jaggery & honey are better than sugar, which induces a comparable insulin increase when taken in the same quantity. For diabetics, you can consume small amounts of honey and jaggery. However, it is important not to consume too much as it raises blood sugar levels.

Is Black Jaggery Good For Diabetes?

Black jaggery is also known as palm jaggery made from sugarcane juice and palm tree extract and is made from sugarcane juice and palm tree extract. Black jaggery and palm sugar have been the staple sweetener in India and some South-Asian nations for many years. 

• As per a study, palm jaggery is a promising ingredient for people with type 2 diabetes mellitus in managing their blood sugar levels. 

• As palm sugar consists of less glucose and a low glycemic index, it is easy on the heart and regulates blood sugar. It does not rapidly spike up or crash the energy level. 

• For women with type 2 diabetes, insulin content is said to be beneficial in controlling blood sugar and enhancing antioxidant status. 

• This further protects the body from diseases, infections, and damage. 

• Another study suggests that fermentable carbohydrates may improve insulin sensitivity. 

• Additionally, metabolic effects may be greater in people at high risk of developing diabetes.

The Final Say

Now you know all about diabetes and jaggery and whether jaggery causes diabetes or not after reading the blog. Jaggery is a traditional sweetener used in South Asian cuisine for centuries. Jaggery may offer health benefits for diabetics due to the low glycemic index and high nutrient content. 

Jaggery, a still carbohydrate source, should be consumed in moderation as part of your balanced diet. It is important to determine the required amount of jaggery or other added sugars that fits your diabetes management plan. Effectively managing your diet and blood sugar levels can reduce your risk of diabetes-related complications.

FAQs

1. Does jaggery cause diabetes, and can a diabetic patient have jaggery?

Yes, jaggery increases blood sugar levels because of its high glycemic index. However, the presence of micronutrients makes it a better option. But still, for diabetics, jaggery should be avoided or taken in moderation.

2. Which sugar is best for diabetics?

Out of many types of sugar, palm sugar is one of the best sugar options for diabetics. It has a glycemic index of only 35, which is considered a low glycemic index.

3. Sugar or jaggery, which is better for diabetes?

There is no doubt that jaggery is healthier than sugar, but for people with diabetes, both mean the same. If diabetes patients consume jaggery, they must consume it in moderation. 

4. Is Jaggery sugar-free or not?

No, jaggery contains sugar and around 65 to 85 percent of sucrose. This is the reason that jaggery should be taken in moderation for diabetics.

5. Does jaggery increase sugar levels? 

Yes, jaggery can increase blood sugar levels as it primarily consists of sucrose and glucose. While considered a more natural sweetener, its intake should be controlled, especially by individuals with diabetes, due to its relatively high Glycemic Index (GI).

References

• Is Palm Sugar Good for Diabetics ?? Benefits, Side Effects, Nutrition & More!! Learn Everything !! 

• Comparison of blood glucose responses by cane sugar (Saccharum officinarum) versus coconut jaggery (Cocos nucifera) in type 2 diabetes patients - ScienceDirect

• Jaggery And Diabetes: Separating Fact From Fiction 

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