### Can People with Diabetes Drink Cranberry Juice? Cranberry juice is a popular drink known for its sweet and tart taste. However, if you have diabetes, you need to be cautious about your sugar intake. Here’s what you need to know about cranberry juice and diabetes. #### Nutritional Content Pure cranberry juice is made from pressed cranberries and contains no added ingredients. One cup (236 mL) of pure cranberry juice has about 30 grams of naturally occurring sugar, along with nutrients like potassium and vitamins C and K. It also contains antioxidants like proanthocyanidin and anthocyanin, which can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases and urinary tract infections. Cranberry cocktail, on the other hand, often contains added sugars and other ingredients like high fructose corn syrup. Despite this, the overall sugar content is similar to pure cranberry juice, with around 30 grams per cup. #### Impact on Blood Sugar Both pure cranberry juice and cranberry cocktail have similar carbohydrate content from sugar. However, pure, unsweetened cranberry juice is a better option because it has more nutrients and fewer additives. The lack of dietary fiber in cranberry juice means that its sugar is rapidly absorbed by your body, causing a quick spike in blood sugar levels. Therefore, it’s generally better to consume whole fruits instead of fruit juices, as they contain more nutrients and fiber, which have a lesser impact on blood sugar levels. #### Recommendations If you choose to drink cranberry juice, opt for pure, unsweetened cranberry juice or a light version. Stick to a 1/2-cup (125 mL) serving, which provides about 15 grams of carbs from naturally occurring sugar. Light cranberry juice usually contains about half the calories and sugar of regular cranberry juice and is often made with artificial sweeteners like sucralose, which may have a lesser impact on blood sugar levels. #### Monitoring and Moderation Everyone’s body reacts differently to cranberry juice. If you have diabetes and decide to drink cranberry juice, it’s important to monitor your blood sugar levels carefully. Consult your diabetes educator if you have any concerns about managing your blood sugar levels. In summary, while cranberry juice can be part of a healthy diet for people with diabetes, it should be consumed in moderation. Always pay attention to your blood sugar levels and consult your healthcare professional if you have any concerns. #### Try This Make the most of the recommended 1/2-cup (125 mL) cranberry juice serving by mixing up a refreshing cranberry-lime mocktail. In a cocktail glass, add 1/2 cup (125 mL) of pure cranberry juice, juice from half a lime, and crushed ice. Top with a dash of sparkling water and add a few frozen cranberries to serve. For extra flavor, add some fresh mint.