Coconut Water Is Called Can Increase Blood Sugar Levels, This Is A Doctor's Explanation

Illustration of coconut water (istockphoto)

JAKARTA - Coconut water is one of the drinks consumed to quench thirst during hot weather. Not only refreshing and eliminating thirst, coconut water also has many benefits for the health of the body.

However, there are also concerns that drinking coconut water can increase blood sugar levels and increase the risk for diabetics. Regarding this, diabetes expert, Dr. Siva Sundar, provides an explanation of how coconut water can affect blood sugar levels.

Doctor Siva said that there was indeed an increase in blood sugar levels of 100mg / dL within half an hour after consuming coconut water. Therefore, Doctor Siva said that coconut water is not recommended for diabetics.

However, if you want to continue to consume coconut water, it is recommended that people with diabetes exercise first, then drink it.

"It's better to exercise and then drink enough coconut water," said Doctor Siva, quoted from Indian Express, on Tuesday, May 13, 2025.

Head and nutritionist of Marengo Asia Gurugram Hospital, Parmeet Kaur, also said that coconut water can increase blood sugar levels or does not depend on several factors. Starting from the amount consumed, medical history, especially for diabetics.

An increase in blood sugar levels after drinking coconut water can occur due to the content of fructose and glucose in it. These two compounds can increase blood sugar levels if consumed excessively.

Natural sugars contained in coconut water, namely fructose and glucose, have the potential to increase blood sugar levels if consumed excessively. The glass (240 ml) of coconut water usually contains 6-7 grams of sugar, "said Doctor Kaur.

Coconut water also contains a low glycemic (IG) index, meaning that compared to food with high IG, blood sugar levels are gradually increasing and slowly, he added.

Thus, the portion of consuming coconut water must be highly considered, especially for diabetics so that there is no increase in blood sugar. Coconut water can be part of a balanced diet if consumed with a reasonable amount, without causing major disorders to the body's blood sugar levels.