Diabetes is a chronic disease that is caused by excess sugar. It affects the way your body process food into energy.
There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes.
Type 1 diabetes, is a long-lasting medical condition that occurs when the immune system of the body targets and demolishes the beta cells, which are responsible for producing insulin.
As a result, the body cannot produce enough insulin to regulate blood sugar levels, leading to high levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood.
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition in which the body either resists the effects of insulin or doesn’t produce enough insulin to maintain normal blood sugar levels. Insulin is a hormone that helps glucose (sugar) enter cells and be used for energy.
Health Benefits of Sugarcane
Here are some of the benefits of Sugarcane:
- Sugarcane aids Digestion
- It Boosts Immunity
- Sugarcane hydrates the body
- Sugarcane lowers Cholesterol in the body
- Sugarcane promotes Healthy skin
Demerits of Sugarcane
While sugarcane has several potential health benefits, there are also some demerits to its consumption:
1. High in Sugar: Sugarcane is high in sugar, which can cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels, leading to a risk of developing diabetes, especially when consumed in large amounts.
2. Poor Oral Health: Consuming sugarcane or sugarcane juice regularly can increase the risk of dental cavities and tooth decay due to the high sugar content.
3. Pesticide Residue: Sugarcane is often sprayed with pesticides and other chemicals to protect it from pests and diseases. Consuming sugarcane with high levels of pesticide residue can pose health risks.
4. Not Suitable for Everyone: People with diabetes or those trying to lose weight may need to limit or avoid consuming sugarcane due to its high sugar content.
5. Potential Contamination: Sugarcane juice can be contaminated with harmful bacteria or viruses if proper hygiene and sanitation practices are not followed during preparation and storage.
Can Sugarcane Cause Diabetes?
Research has it that consuming sugarcane itself does not directly cause diabetes. However, consuming sugarcane juice or any sugary drinks in excess can lead to weight gain and obesity, which are risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes.
Additionally, consuming large amounts of sugary drinks like sugarcane juice can lead to a rapid increase in blood sugar levels, which can over time damage the pancreas, the organ that produces insulin, leading to insulin resistance and diabetes.
Therefore, it is recommended to consume sugarcane juice and other sugary drinks in moderation as part of a balanced and healthy diet to minimize the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
