Does milk spike blood sugar

Milk is often a topic of discussion when it comes to managing blood sugar levels. While it does contain carbohydrates, which can raise blood sugar, milk is considered a low-glycemic index (GI) food. This means it releases glucose into the bloodstream slowly, which helps maintain stable blood sugar levels. The GI of milk is typically around 30 to 55, depending on the type. For example, regular fat milk has a GI of about 30, while reduced-fat milk has a slightly lower GI of 26.

The presence of protein and fat in milk also helps slow down the digestion and absorption of its natural sugars, such as lactose. This slow release of glucose can be beneficial for people managing diabetes, as it reduces the risk of sudden spikes in blood sugar levels. Additionally, lactose-free milk is a good option for diabetics, as its sugar content is similar to regular milk, and in some cases, slightly lower.

In contrast, some nondairy milks, like oat and rice milk, can be high in sugar and have a higher GI, which may cause more significant blood sugar spikes. Therefore, when choosing milk alternatives, it’s important to check their sugar content and GI to ensure they fit within a diabetes-friendly diet.

Recent studies suggest that including dairy products in the diet may help control blood sugar levels better than plant-only diets. This is partly due to compounds found in dairy that help cells use fat for energy and reduce oxidative stress, which can occur when blood sugar levels are high. However, it’s always important to balance milk consumption with other dietary choices to maintain overall health and stable blood sugar levels.