Can diabetics eat honey?
Quick Answer
Yes, but in moderation.
While honey is a natural sweetener, it still raises blood sugar levels and should be consumed in moderation by diabetics. It’s also important to note that honey has more calories than sugar.
What Is It?
Honey is a sweet, viscous food substance made by honey bees and some other bees. Bees produce honey from the sugary secretions of plants or from secretions of other insects, by regurgitation, enzymatic activity, and water evaporation.
Why It Can Be Risky
While honey is a natural sweetener, it can still pose risks for diabetics if not consumed in moderation.
- Honey can raise blood sugar levels, which can be dangerous for diabetics.
- Honey has more calories than sugar, which can lead to weight gain if not consumed in moderation.
Safe Method?
Diabetics should consume honey in moderation and monitor their blood sugar levels regularly. It’s also recommended to choose raw, unprocessed honey over processed varieties, as it contains more nutrients and less added sugars.
Safe Alternatives
- Stevia is a natural, zero-calorie sweetener that does not raise blood sugar levels.
- Erythritol is a sugar alcohol that has almost no calories and does not affect blood sugar or insulin levels.