sugar or jaggery which is better for diabetes - #39533
I am really confused about my diet lately. I got diagnosed with diabetes a few months ago, and I have been super careful with what I eat. My doctor mentioned to stay away from sugar, but then I heard that jaggery could be better for you? Like, sugar or jaggery which is better for diabetes? I don’t wanna mess up my health any more. My aunt makes these sweet dishes using jaggery and says it is way healthier, but honestly, I feel like I'm just swapping one problem for another. Sometimes I just get cravings for sweets, and getting to the point where I can enjoy a treat without worrying is tough! 😩 I tried making some snacks with jaggery last week, but my blood sugar spiked like crazy! Is that common? Maybe I used too much? Can sugar and jaggery impact blood sugar levels the same way? I’ve also heard that some people say jaggery can actually help in digestion?? I'm just super lost on this... I keep thinking, sugar or jaggery which is better for diabetes, really? Anyone have any insights or personal experiences they can share? Feeling kinda overwhelmed here. Thanks!!!
Shop Now in Our Store


Doctors' responses
When it comes to managing diabetes, navigating between sugar and jaggery can indeed be confusing. In the Ayurvedic perspective, both are considered types of sweeteners that influence the body’s metabolism, but their impacts on blood sugar levels are quite similar. Jaggery, often touted as a healthier alternative, does have some additional minerals like iron, but this doesn’t necessarily make it a safer choice for someone with diabetes. The essential point here is that both jaggery and sugar have high glycemic indexes, leading to rapid spikes in blood sugar levels.
Your experience with your blood sugar spiking after consuming snacks made with jaggery is not uncommon. It’s a misconception that because jaggery is less processed, it’s significantly better for diabetics. The spike you experienced could be due to the amount used, as even small quantities can elevate blood sugar substantially. Whether it is sugar or jaggery, portion size is key. Both should ideally be limited in a diabetic diet.
In Ayurveda, the focus is on balance and the individual’s constitution or ‘prakriti’. The sweet taste is nourishing but can exacerbate an imbalance in kapha dosha, which might already be dominating in someone with diabetes. To help with cravings, consider natural sweet alternatives that have a lower glycemic impact, such as stevia, in moderation. Meanwhile, integrating more bitter and astringent tastes, which help pacify kapha and might aid in blood sugar management, could be beneficial.
Regarding the idea that jaggery aids in digestion, it’s worth noting that this is somewhat context-dependent. It might help certain individuals due to its properties and constituents, but it doesn’t mitigate the fact that it can still raise blood sugar.
It’s crucial to tailor your diet and lifestyle to your specific needs. In Ayurveda, managing diabetes involves more than just dietary changes — optimizing digestion (agni), reducing kapha-inducing habits, and incorporating regular physical activities like yoga or brisk walking can significantly help. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels and consulting with your primary healthcare provider or a knowledgeable Ayurvedic practitioner will provide guidance tailored to your situation. Always approach your cravings and dietary choices with mindful moderation for balanced wellbeing.

100% Anonymous
600+ certified Ayurvedic experts. No sign-up.
About our doctors
Only qualified ayurvedic doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.
