Diabetes is a chronic disease characterized by high levels of sugar (glucose) in the blood. Glucose is the main source of energy for the cells of the human body. However, for people with diabetes, glucose cannot be utilized by their bodies. Even though it cannot be used, it does not mean that diabetics cannot consume glucose-based foods, such as coconut sugar. Coconut sugar is one of the food ingredients that produce glucose for the body. However, what is the role of coconut sugar for diabetics?
In general, Diabetes Mellitus occurs as a result of an unhealthy lifestyle, which causes an accumulation of sugar levels in the blood. Sugar levels in the blood have been above the normal threshold which is chronic and long-term. Therefore, blood sugar must be kept stable and not increase significantly. Many assume that consuming coconut sugar makes blood sugar rise dramatically, even though coconut sugar has a low glycemic index. Many forget about other factors even if they replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar. Here are some factors that make coconut sugar less effective for diabetics:
1. Consuming excessive Coconut Sugar
Coconut sugar does have a low glycemic index, but that doesn’t mean it can be consumed recklessly. As a sweetener for food and drinks consumed, coconut sugar can help release glucose regularly, so that the body can burn energy gradually. So, the amount of coconut sugar as a sweetener must still be adjusted to the needs of diabetics.
2. Mixed coconut sugar
If you want to consume coconut sugar, it’s a good idea to choose high-quality, unmixed coconut sugar products. It is not uncommon for diabetics to consume dangerous mixed coconut sugar. So blood sugar levels increase after consuming coconut sugar. Before buying coconut sugar, make sure to choose a coconut sugar manufacturer or supplier that has good credibility. In addition, buy coconut sugar that already has BPOM distribution permits to ensure the nutritional content is there.
3. Irregular eating patterns
A sugar diet is an obligation that must be carried out by diabetics. Because sugar levels can be formed not only from consuming sugar but also from consuming foods and drinks that contain high sugar levels. Even though consuming coconut sugar which has a low glycemic index, a diabetes diet must still be regulated. So that the body does not have glucose which causes blood sugar levels to increase.
4. Coconut sugar is not a diabetes drug
Apart from the 3 factors above, many people think that consuming coconut sugar as a substitute for coconut sugar can cure diabetes. So it is not uncommon for diabetics to consume it in large quantities, and seem to ignore diabetes food guidelines. Coconut sugar is just like any other sweetener. However, coconut sugar can be used as a sweetener that is safe for diabetics. Of course, with a note that it is not consumed in excess, while maintaining a diet, eating a diabetes diet is carried out and understanding the severity of diabetes.
