Is Gula Aren Safe for Diabetes? Many Think It's Healthy, Here's the Fact

YOGYAKARTA - Is palm sugar safe for diabetics? Many people answer "yes" without hesitation, especially because palm sugar is often labeled as a healthier natural sweetener than granulated sugar. Its distinctive brown color and traditional process make this sugar feel more friendly to the body. However, this assumption needs to be seen more clearly, especially if you live with diabetes or are trying to keep your blood sugar levels stable.

Jaggery comes from the sap of the sugar palm tree that is cooked until it thickens and crystallizes. Because it does not go through a purification process like white sugar, jaggery still contains a small amount of minerals. However, from the function in the body, jaggery is still a source of simple sugar. After being consumed, the body will break it down into glucose which then enters the bloodstream and affects your blood sugar levels.

One of the reasons why palm sugar is often considered safer is its relatively lower glycemic index value compared to granulated sugar. Citing Medical News Today, Monday, January 19, the glycemic index describes how quickly a food raises blood sugar after being consumed. With a slightly lower number, palm sugar tends to raise blood sugar more slowly. However, this does not mean that the impact is mild or can be ignored, especially if the consumption is excessive.

You need to understand that the glycemic index is not the only determinant of food safety for diabetics. Portion consumption, meal frequency, combination with other foods, and the individual's body response play a big role. Although it feels "more natural", palm sugar still contains quite high carbohydrates and calories. If used without control, blood sugar spikes can still occur.

Another common mistake is to think that palm sugar can be consumed freely because it is considered healthier. In fact, all types of sugar, both natural and processed, still contribute to daily sugar intake. Excessive consumption in the long term can make it difficult to control diabetes, increase weight, and increase the risk of other health complications.

So, back to the main question, is palm sugar safe for diabetics? The answer is not completely safe, but it also does not have to be avoided completely. Palm sugar can still be consumed by diabetics in limited quantities and with good supervision. The key is moderation, portion awareness, and regular monitoring of blood sugar levels.

To conclude, although many people think that palm sugar is always healthier, the fact is that this sweetener still needs to be treated wisely. If you want to enjoy sweetness without endangering your health, make sure that palm sugar is only a small complement, not the main source. With the right settings and consultation with health professionals, you can still enjoy sweet foods while keeping blood sugar under control.