Non-alcoholic beers can be an option for diabetics looking to enjoy the taste of beer while managing their blood sugar levels. However, it's important to choose non-alcoholic beers carefully, paying close attention to the sugar and carbohydrate content, as some varieties may still impact glucose control.
Impact of Carbohydrates in Non-Alcoholic Beers
Non-alcoholic beers tend to have either the same or more carbohydrates than traditional beers due to their higher sugar content. For example, San Miguel has 3.7g of carbohydrates per 100ml, while Maisel's Weisse Non-Alcoholic German Beer contains 5.5g. Some non-alcoholic beers can contain up to 8-9g of carbohydrates per 100ml.
However, studies have shown that consuming alcohol-free beers with modified carbohydrate composition, such as those enriched with isomaltulose and resistant maltodextrin, can lead to lower peaks in glucose, insulin, and incretin hormones compared to regular alcohol-free beer. When consumed with white bread, these modified alcohol-free beers also generated a lower glucose peak than consuming the same quantity of carbohydrates from white bread alone.
Despite having fewer calories than regular beer, some non-alcoholic beers still contain calories and carbohydrates that can add up, especially if consumed in larger quantities. But there are some that have much lower carbohydrate and sugar contents than others.
Reading Nutrition Labels: What Diabetics Should Look For
When reading nutrition labels, diabetics should focus on several key components to help manage their blood sugar levels:
- Serving size: Pay close attention to the serving size listed, as all other nutritional information is based on this amount. If you consume more than one serving, you'll need to adjust the other values accordingly.
- Total carbohydrates: This includes all types of carbohydrates - sugar, starch, and fiber. Use the total grams of carbohydrates when counting carbs or planning meals. Aim for foods with a lower % Daily Value of total carbohydrates.
- Added sugars: Look for the amount of added sugars, which are now required to be listed separately from naturally occurring sugars. Choose foods with minimal or no added sugars to better control blood glucose.
- Fiber: Opt for foods higher in dietary fiber, as it can help slow the absorption of sugar and improve blood sugar levels.
- Fat: While monitoring fat intake is important for overall health, pay special attention to saturated and trans fats, aiming for foods with a lower % Daily Value of these.
- Sodium: Look for foods with a lower % Daily Value of sodium to help manage blood pressure, which is often a concern for diabetics.
By carefully examining nutrition labels and focusing on these key aspects, diabetics can make informed food choices that support their blood sugar management goals.
Best Overall: IMPOSSIBREW
For diabetics seeking the best overall non-alcoholic beer option, IMPOSSIBREW stands out for several reasons. Their unique Social Blend™ aids relaxation in a way that other alcohol-free beers do not, allowing you to feel satisfied without the desire to consume alcohol.
With only 27 calories per 440ml can, which equates to 6 calories per 100ml, IMPOSSIBREW is one of the lowest calorie alcohol-free beers available. It also contains no sugar and is 100% vegan.
Recognised as the UK's best-tasting alcohol-free beer by the World Beer Awards, IMPOSSIBREW offers an exceptional all-round choice for diabetics looking to reduce their alcohol intake while still enjoying a flavourful beverage. Additionally, IMPOSSIBREW contains less alcohol than a ripe banana (0.5% ABV), burger roll (1.2%), or orange juice (up to 1%), making it a suitable option for those closely monitoring their alcohol consumption. The company also offers a gluten-free lager, catering to individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
If you fancy a try, check out their welcome bundle with a love-it-or-return it guarantee today at https://impossibrew.co.uk/welcome.
