As diabetes cases continue to rise globally, doctors are sounding the alarm: certain everyday drinks may quietly accelerate the progression of the disease, increasing the risk of severe complications — even death. Many people believe only sugary foods are dangerous, but in reality, what you drink can be just as harmful.

Health experts emphasize that people with diabetes, prediabetes, or those at high risk should be extremely cautious with the following five types of beverages, which can cause sudden spikes in blood sugar, damage blood vessels, and burden vital organs.

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1. Sugary Soft Drinks

High in refined sugar and absorbed rapidly, these drinks can cause blood glucose to surge within minutes. Studies show that frequent consumption significantly increases the risk of insulin resistance and cardiovascular complications.

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2. Sweetened Milk Tea and Flavored Coffees

Although marketed as trendy and harmless, many contain massive amounts of sugar, syrup, and creamers — some equivalent to an entire meal’s calories. Doctors say these beverages are among the fastest ways to worsen diabetes.

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3. Packaged Fruit Juices

Even “100% juice” varieties are concentrated with natural sugars. Without fiber to slow absorption, they can raise blood sugar nearly as quickly as soda.

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4. Energy Drinks

Designed for athletes, not daily hydration. They contain extreme levels of caffeine and sugar, which can cause arrhythmias, high blood pressure, and dangerous glucose spikes.

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5. Alcoholic Beverages

Alcohol interferes with glucose regulation, strains the liver, and may cause blood sugar to fluctuate unpredictably — sometimes dangerously low, sometimes extremely high.

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Doctors’ Advice: Water Is Still the Safest

Medical experts recommend prioritizing plain water, herbal teas without sugar, and unsweetened beverages. People who often feel thirsty should be screened for diabetes early, as excessive thirst is one of the earliest warning signs.