This 'healthy' breakfast drink may be doing more harm than good for diabetics. Health experts warn

For anyone trying to manage Type 2 diabetes, the focus is usually on sugar-laden desserts or starchy foods. But what if one of the biggest culprits was sitting quietly in your fridge, disguised as a “healthy” choice? A recent advisory by health professionals reveals a hidden danger in a beverage many assume is good for them—but could actually wreak havoc on blood sugar levels.

The Surprising Drink Diabetics Are Being Urged to Avoid
According to The Mirror, in a report by Surrey Live, Jason Murphy, head pharmacist at Chemist4U, revealed a beverage that’s long been considered nutritious but is now being flagged for its potential risk to diabetics: fruit juice. While whole fruits are known for their fiber and vitamin-rich benefits, fruit juice—despite its natural origin—might be doing more damage than good for those managing diabetes.

“Fruit juices may seem harmless,” Murphy explained, “but without the fiber found in whole fruits, they can lead to sharp spikes in blood sugar.”

Why Juice Lacks the ‘Fruit Power’ Diabetics Need
This isn’t just pharmacist advice—it’s a concern echoed by Diabetes UK, a leading diabetes charity. The organization explains that most commercial fruit juices have the fiber removed during processing. What remains is a concentrated shot of sugar and carbohydrates—exactly what people with diabetes are advised to control.

According to Diabetes UK, the issue lies in the ease with which fruit juice can be consumed. “It’s quite easy to drink large quantities of juice rapidly,” they noted. “This means you could be drinking a lot of extra calories, carbs and sugar without realizing it.”

One Small Glass?
So should people with diabetes swear off juice completely? Not necessarily—but moderation is key. Experts suggest limiting fruit juice to just one small glass (150ml) per day and even recommend diluting it with water to lessen the glycemic impact.

“If you’re going to drink it,” Murphy advised, “make it last longer and reduce the sugar concentration by diluting.”

While fruit juices may retain a halo of health from their fruit-based origins, for people with Type 2 diabetes, that halo can quickly turn into a hazard. As health experts increasingly push for smarter dietary decisions, the message is clear: just because it’s natural doesn’t mean it’s harmless. And in the world of diabetes management, every sip counts.