Beer has always been our go-to drink when unwinding after a long day at work. Getting a good buzz can help us feel relaxed too. The problem with drinking alcohol, however, is that it can increase our blood glucose levels which can be dangerous to those who have health issues like diabetes, heart problems, and the like. This is one of the many reasons why those with diabetes are in doubt when it comes to drinking beer because they know that too much can affect their blood glucose levels especially when they are taking insulin.
You are wondering if drinking one glass of beer can affect their glucose levels. The answer to this is yes. This is dangerous especially to those who are taking insulin since it can trigger a hypoglycemic episode. Although there are some who would argue that drinking glass will not hurt, it is better to be safe than sorry.
However, what about getting your hands on the best low carb beer? There are low carb beers that are designed for those who are watching their weight since the number of carbohydrates is significantly fewer compared to that of regular beers. An ordinary beer usually has 145 calories and about 10.6 grams of carbs while a low carb beer only has about 55 grams of calories and 1.09 grams of carbohydrates. See the difference?
The question now, however, is which among the beers being sold today is the best low carb beer? There are a few things that you need to know first before getting your hands on them.
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Who Needs Low Carb Beer?
Who needs to drink the best low carb beer, you ask? Weight watchers know full well that alcoholic drinks can increase their weight, not to mention the amount of fat in their body, hence they are looking for beers that are on the lighter side. This means that low carb beers are very much welcome to their list of drinks to consume since they do not have to worry about bloating midsection at all.
Well, aside from those who are watching their weight, those who have been diagnosed with diabetes can also need low carb beer and can drink this beverage, but in moderation. One reason behind this is that low carb beers have fewer carbohydrates compared to regular beers. It is easy to fall into the trap of thinking that you can drink several glasses of low carb beer especially when you have diabetes, but this is not so. It is important that you monitor your intake to avoid complications to your health.
What is Low Carb Beer?
Low carb beer is an alcoholic beverage that is low in carbohydrate content. A typical beer has more than 10 grams of carbs in them depending on their brand, but these low carb beers are way below the expected number. Some say that the taste of the beer is significantly affected by the low carb while others barely register the difference. Of course, when you are looking for the best low carb beer, you will need to consider the rest of the ingredients too so that you will get the best one for your needs.
There are varied brands of alcoholic drinks available today, but it is sometimes difficult to find one that has low carbohydrate content. The flavor of beers relies mostly on the carbohydrate it contains so you might be wondering if it is worth getting your hands on the best low carb beer for your diabetes. The good news is that there are beer makers who have seen the need to create low carb beers not just for those who have diabetes but weight watchers too. We all know the effects of consuming too much alcohol which is why it is not a bad idea to consider looking for beers that are low in carb content.
What Are The Benefits of Low Carb Beer For Diabetics?
Are there any benefits to drinking the best low carb beer? It appears that there are several benefits to be enjoyed when you take low carb beer in moderation even when you have diabetes. Here are a few reasons to try:
Reduces inflammation. When drinking the best low carb beer in moderation, it might help reduce any inflammation in your body. If you are pre-diabetic, this might help prevent it from becoming Type-2 diabetes. Inflammation might be one of the leading causes of diabetes, and through drinking beer in moderation, you might be able to prevent or at least reduce flare-ups in the body.
Increased insulin sensitivity. Another possible benefit to drinking the best low carb beer is that it helps in increasing insulin sensitivity in drinkers. It is also possible that the acetate in the low carb drink can reduce the number of fatty acids being released from the adipose tissues while preventing the uptake of fatty acids circulated by the muscles. This, in turn, can boost insulin sensitivity and glucose oxidation which is a plus to those with diabetes.
Increased adiponectin levels. Studies show that those who imbibe low carb beers or those whose intake of carbohydrates from beer is low, show an increase in adiponectin levels. The adiponectin levels are the ones responsible for increasing your insulin sensitivity which prevents you from getting Type-2 diabetes.
Regulates glycemic levels. Another benefit that is linked to drinking low carb beer is that it can help you regulate your glycemic index. This has been observed in those whose intake of alcoholic beverage is below 40 grams per day. Although there is no clear indication on how alcohol is helping control one’s glycemic index, it might be possible that the properties of low carb beer can prevent the rise of one’s blood glucose levels especially after eating.
Improves social relationships. If you have access to the best low carb beer, it will significantly help your social relations since you will be able to bond with your family and friends. Of course, you will still need to keep a close eye on your blood glucose levels to ensure that you are not consuming more than is necessary.
Increases good cholesterol levels. It is also possible that drinking the best low carb beer can improve your good cholesterol levels. The HDL or good cholesterol is the one protecting you against potential heart issues like stroke, heart attack, and the like. This means that you can prevent or at least reduce your risk of heart problems when you drink alcohol in moderation.
What Are The Best Low Carb Beer For Diabetics?
You are wondering what is the best low carb beer to buy when you have diabetes. Well, you are most likely to come across several brands and may be tempted to buy the first one that you come across. However, before you spend money on such a drink, you need to make sure that you get the best low carb beer for your money. Like it was mentioned before, the taste may be different from what you are used to. Here we have rounded up five that made it into our list of best low carb beer for people with diabetes.
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K1 Sugar-Free Beer
Overview:
K1 Sugar Free Beer has 4 grams of carbohydrates per 330 ml. This means that it only has just over 1 gram for every 100ml of alcoholic drink. Not only is it low carb, but it is sugar-free, and it does not come with artificial additives too. This is one of the reasons why it is an excellent choice to consider if you are trying to find a beer that is low in carb content.
Pros
- No artificial additives.
- Has only over 1 gram of carbs per 100 ml.
- It has an appealing taste to it.
- Price for 12 bottles is significantly cheap.
- Good for people who are on a diet or have diabetes.
Cons
- It is only available in the UK.
- The shipping fee may be an issue.
- Taste of the beer may be too light for some beer drinkers.
- Alcohol content is only 4.8%.
- Shipping may take a while especially when you are in the US.
Cisk Excel Low Carbohydrate Beer
Overview:
Another choice for the best low carb beer is Cisk Excel Low Carbohydrate Beer. Manufactured in Malta, this beer was voted as the best low carb beer at the World Beer Awards in the United Kingdom which is not a bad feat. The crisp taste of this beer is not only amazing, but weight watchers and diabetic drinkers will surely enjoy its low-carb content.
Pros
- It contains 1.5 grams of carbohydrates per 100 ml.
- Only 25 calories per 100ml
- Still retains the original taste of Cisk lager but fewer carbs
- Crisp and clean taste and refreshing flavor.
- It pairs well with shellfish, fresh fish, and even poultry.
Cons
- Available in the UK only.
- Canned packaging may get damaged during shipping.
- Taste may not be as deep as regular beers.
- Rare to find in local groceries.
Marston’s Resolution Premium Low Carb Beer
Overview:
Marston’s Resolution Premium Low Carb Beer is yet another option to consider if you are looking for the best low carb beer for people with diabetes. Marston’s brew undergoes double fermentation to transform all sugars into alcohol. The total alcohol content of each bottle is at 4.7%, but the best part is that it has low carb content. According to Marston’s, each bottle only has 2 grams of carbohydrates, so less sugar to worry about.
Pros
- Undergoes double fermentation process to transform sugar into alcohol.
- Strong and refreshing taste.
- Low carbohydrate content at 2 grams per bottle.
- Full-bodied flavor ideal for those who are looking for a strong drink
- Each pack comes in 24 bottles.
Cons
- Available in the UK.
- Shipping time may be longer.
- Price may be too expensive compared to other low-carb beers.
- Bottles may get damaged during shipping.
- May not be available in local groceries.
Stoli Non-alcoholic Premium Mixer Ginger Beer
Overview:
It might be a good idea to consider Stoli Non-alcoholic Premium Mixer Ginger Beer too when in search of the best low carb beer to drink. The packaging itself looks excellent, and it does taste amazing. What makes this drink a good choice for those who are watching their weight or have diabetes is that it has pure cane sugar and real ginger extract. This is much better compared to other beers that have additives and artificial flavoring which can wreak havoc on your blood glucose levels when consumed in large amounts. It is low in calories too which is a plus.
Pros
- The taste is flavorful for a beer.
- Low in calorie content perfect for weight watchers.
- It has low carbohydrate content; suitable for those with diabetes.
- Use real ginger extract and pure cane sugar
- It is relatively cheaper compared to others.
Cons
- Not enough details on the ingredients used.
- Taste may not suit regular beer drinkers.
- A bit expensive to buy for beer drinkers.
- Must be mixed with other alcoholic drink.
- Calorie and carbohydrate content not indicated on the label.
Heineken Premium Quality Lager Beer
Overview:
Heineken Premium Quality Lager Beer is yet another best low carb beer to consider if you are looking for one that will not compromise your blood glucose levels. The brewers in Heineken has developed an alcohol-free drink that does not compromise the quality and taste of the beer. It has that soft malty body with a hint of fruity freshness which might be a bit different from the usual beer most are accustomed to. You can have this beer even if you plan on driving as it will not give you that foggy or confused mind after drinking a few cans of it.
Pros
- Alcohol-free drink
- Perfectly balanced taste.
- Makes use of natural ingredients including A-Yeast that is unique to Heineken.
- Ideal for weight watchers and those with diabetes.
- Comes in 24 cans per set.
Cons
- No indication of carbohydrate content in its label.
- Canned packaging may get compromised during shipping.
- Might cause a hangover in some cases.
- Quality may not be consistent for each can as reviewed by a customer.
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Our Choice for the Best Low Carb Beer For Diabetics
Now that we have rounded up the brands that we think are worth looking into when it comes to best low carb beer, we have decided that Cisk Excel Low Carbohydrate Beer is the best among the list.
Being voted as the best low carb beer in the World Beer Awards in the United Kingdom gives it an edge over the rest of the low-carb beers in the list. It only shows that the unique flavor and texture of this beverage, not to mention the process of fermentation, and the use of ingredients have made a mark to its testers which we believe is a true sign that this beer is definitely worth looking into if you are in need of the best low carb beer. There is no denying that flavor is everything when it comes to beer and since Cisk has received high points from the panel of judges, it is worth trying out.
What we like about Cisk Excel Low Carbohydrate Beer is that it clearly indicates that it only contains 1.5 grams of carbohydrates per 100ml with its calorie content at 25 grams per 100ml. This is not bad considering the quality of the beverage. Even when compared to other low-carb beers, the amount is not too high to worry about. What’s more, the crisp and clean taste of the drink will make you enjoy this best low carb beer during meal times or when you just need to relax a bit after a long day at work. Of course, everything should be in moderation even when you are drinking low carb beers like Cisk.
Although it is available in the UK, it might be possible for you to find this beverage in your local grocery. Just make sure that you check the description of the can so that you will know that you are getting the low carb beer. If you have questions about the beverage, you can contact the manufacturer to get more details about their beer.
Now that you have an idea on which low carb beers to try, you might want to consider these options the next time you plan on having a party with family and friends. These low carbohydrate beers might help you prevent your blood glucose levels from shooting up too fast while enjoying a few rounds with the gang. Just make sure that you check your blood from time to time since it is easy to get a few more cans into your system when enjoying yourself too much.
Check out more info on best low carb beer for diabetics here:
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