Although we always put an emphasis on food, beverages can also affect our blood sugar. The best ways to quench your thirst throughout the day is by drinking water. Don’t like water or tired of drinking water? Add a bit of fresh lemon juice to your water.
When it comes to coffee and tea, limit your intake to no more than 2 cups per day. Try adding some milk and also try without sugar or sweetener. (Avoid sweeteners with cyclamate.) Avoid herbal drinks. Check out the Safety & Foods to Avoid section for a list of herbal teas to avoid. Avoid energy drinks with caffeine.
If you are someone who enjoys drinking milk with your meals, make sure to choose a low-fat option and count the carbohydrates as part of your meal. Don’t forget that 1 cup of milk contains 12 grams of carbohydrates.
Some beverages are not recommended due to their high sugar content. These beverages include:
- Sugar-sweetened beverages (fruit punch, Fruitopia, Gatorade, slush)
- Soft drinks (Coke, Pepsi, Seven-Up, Orange Crush, Gingerale)
- Juice (always choose a whole fruit over a 100% natural fruit juice)
Diet drinks have been linked to higher body weight. It is best to avoid all soda pop.
Do NOT consume Alcohol. Consuming any alcohol during the course of your pregnancy can cause fetal alcohol syndrome and fetal malformations.
Avoid energy drinks with caffeine.
Check out Safety & Foods to Avoid for other cautions regarding beverages.
