Can Drinking Water with High GI Foods Prevent Blood Sugar Spikes?

Q: Can Drinking Water with High GI Foods Prevent Blood Sugar Spikes?

Dear Anonymous Mr.：<br>1. <br>The glycemic index (GI) refers to the measurement of how much a specific food raises blood glucose levels after a 12-hour fast. <br>This is determined by consuming a food containing a specific amount of digestible carbohydrates (excluding indigestibl

Does drinking water to dilute high GI foods help prevent blood sugar spikes?

I understand that high glycemic index (GI) foods can put a strain on the pancreas due to their refined nature, causing a sudden increase in workload.
If I drink water while consuming high GI foods, will the dilution of food molecules help reduce the burden on the pancreas? (Although it may cause gastric discomfort) Thank you, doctor.

Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/06/09

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine

Dear Anonymous Mr.:
1.
The glycemic index (GI) refers to the measurement of how much a specific food raises blood glucose levels after a 12-hour fast.
This is determined by consuming a food containing a specific amount of digestible carbohydrates (excluding indigestible fibers) and measuring the area under the blood glucose response curve over time, which is then divided by the area under the curve for a standard food (such as glucose) and multiplied by 100.
Glycemic load (GL) is calculated as GI multiplied by the grams of carbohydrates in the food consumed divided by 100.
Both of these metrics influence postprandial blood glucose levels; the former is straightforward, while the latter indicates that low-GI foods can still raise blood glucose levels significantly if consumed in large quantities, whereas high-GI foods may not raise blood glucose levels significantly if only a small amount is consumed.
2.
Theoretically, drinking water to dilute blood glucose levels is possible; however, the human blood volume is approximately 1/13 of body weight, or about 8%, which equates to roughly 4-5 liters.
Diabetic patients already have issues with glucose metabolism; thus, relying on water consumption to lower blood glucose levels may not be effective.
Additionally, excess water is quickly excreted through urine or sweat, making it even more challenging to use water for blood glucose reduction.
Furthermore, the pancreas has receptors for glucose molecules that bind with glucose in the blood to secrete insulin; the impact of water on this process is limited.
Interestingly, the insulin secretion triggered by oral glucose intake is greater than that induced by intravenous glucose administration, indicating that factors influencing pancreatic insulin secretion are not solely dependent on blood glucose levels but are also significantly affected by food intake through the gastrointestinal tract.
3.
This explains why it is rare for physicians to recommend increased water intake as a means to lower blood glucose levels.
However, increasing water consumption to enhance the elimination of metabolic waste products is still advised.
4.
If you have further questions, it is recommended that you discuss them in detail with your family physician.

Reply Date: 2019/06/09

More Info

When it comes to managing blood sugar levels, particularly for individuals consuming high glycemic index (GI) foods, the question of whether drinking water can help mitigate blood sugar spikes is a common one. High GI foods are known to cause rapid increases in blood glucose levels because they are quickly digested and absorbed into the bloodstream. This can place a significant burden on the pancreas, which must produce insulin to help regulate blood sugar levels.
The idea of drinking water to "dilute" the blood sugar concentration is theoretically appealing, but in practice, it is not an effective strategy for controlling blood sugar spikes. The human body has a complex system for regulating blood glucose levels, and simply adding water does not significantly alter the dynamics of this process.
Firstly, the volume of blood in the human body is relatively stable, comprising about 8% of body weight, or roughly 4 to 5 liters for an average adult. While drinking water can temporarily increase the volume of fluid in the bloodstream, it does not change the concentration of glucose in a meaningful way. The kidneys will quickly filter excess water, and any dilution effect would be short-lived. Moreover, the pancreas responds to blood glucose levels through specific receptors that detect glucose molecules, and the presence of water does not influence this mechanism.

Additionally, the digestion and absorption of food, particularly carbohydrates, trigger hormonal responses that are more complex than just the concentration of glucose in the blood. For instance, when high GI foods are consumed, the body releases insulin in response to the rapid rise in blood sugar. This insulin response is influenced not only by the glucose levels in the bloodstream but also by the rate at which glucose is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, the act of consuming food—especially high GI foods—will inherently stimulate insulin secretion, regardless of whether water is consumed simultaneously.

Furthermore, while hydration is important for overall health and can aid in metabolic processes, it should not be relied upon as a method for controlling blood sugar levels. Instead, individuals should focus on dietary choices that prioritize low to moderate GI foods, which are digested more slowly and lead to more gradual increases in blood sugar. Foods rich in fiber, whole grains, legumes, and non-starchy vegetables are excellent choices for maintaining stable blood sugar levels.

For those who are concerned about their blood sugar levels, it is advisable to monitor carbohydrate intake, consider portion sizes, and maintain a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrients. Regular physical activity also plays a crucial role in managing blood sugar levels effectively.

In conclusion, while staying hydrated is essential for health, drinking water while consuming high GI foods is not a viable strategy for preventing blood sugar spikes. Instead, focusing on a balanced diet, understanding the glycemic index of foods, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are far more effective approaches to managing blood sugar levels. If there are ongoing concerns about blood sugar management, consulting with a healthcare provider or a registered dietitian can provide personalized strategies and support.

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