Drinking too much sugarcane juice this summer? Here's why you might want to give it a second thought

With scorching temperatures and peak summer heat, ice cream and coconut water vendors line the streets across India. Another drink that enjoys pride of place during the summer season is sugarcane juice.

Vendors crush fresh sugarcane through machines and serve a chilled green drink in a glass, often topped with ice and a pinch of pink salt.

It is undoubtedly one of the most popular summer beverages. The common belief is that sugarcane juice is safe because it is natural, freshly prepared in front of customers, and contains no added chemicals or preservatives.

But before taking another sip, you may want to give it a second thought.

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A warning sign

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has warned against the overconsumption of sugarcane juice because of its high sugar content.

In a report released previously in collaboration with the National Institute of Nutrition, it stated, "Sugarcane juice, which is extensively consumed in India, particularly during summers, is high in sugar and hence its consumption should be minimised."

To understand the health implications of this popular summer drink, Firstpost spoke to Fauziya Ansari, Senior Dietitian at Apollo Spectra Hospital, Mumbai.

Why the ‘natural means healthy’ myth needs to be broken

Ansari highlights that there is a need to break the myth that sugarcane juice is healthy simply because it is naturally occurring.

"It will be shocking for people to know that sugarcane juice can be labelled as a sugary drink because it contains a high amount of naturally occurring sugars. Although it is fresh and less processed than soft drinks, excessive consumption can contribute to excess calorie and sugar intake and hurt the weight loss goals, and lead to a spike in blood sugar levels."

Does sugarcane juice have any health benefits?

According to Ansari, sugarcane juice does contain some beneficial nutrients.

Ansari says that sugarcane juice contains small amounts of antioxidants, minerals such as potassium, and natural sugars that provide quick energy.

However, she cautions against viewing it as a health drink.

"It is not a substitute for water or healthier low-sugar drinks. Make sure to have it in the quantity recommended by the expert."

What happens if you drink sugarcane juice every day?

Regular consumption of sugarcane juice can have several health consequences.

"If a person is having sugarcane juice regularly, then he/she can be at risk of weight gain, blood sugar spikes, and poor glucose control, mainly in those with diabetes or prediabetes. People can also pile up those excess kilos, become obese and also suffer from fatty liver disease," says Ansari.

Hidden health risks in street-side sugarcane juice

Apart from its sugar content, hygiene during preparation is another concern.

Ansari points out that poor handling practices can increase the risk of infections.

"Not wearing gloves and poor hygiene while preparing the juice and even using ice can allow bacteria, viruses, or other germs to contaminate the juice, increasing the risk of stomach infections, gastroenteritis, diarrhoea, vomiting, food poisoning and other gastrointestinal illnesses."

Should you stop drinking sugarcane juice completely?

Many people who enjoy a glass of sugarcane juice during the summer might have to limit their consumption owing to the health risks associated with it.

Ansari suggests: "A small glass (that is around 150ml) of freshly prepared sugarcane juice, once a month, is fine for a healthy adult."

However, experts suggest that people with diabetes, obesity, fatty liver disease, insulin resistance, or other metabolic disorders should completely avoid sugarcane juice because of its high sugar content.

For healthy individuals, moderation remains key. While sugarcane juice may offer quick refreshment on a hot day, it should not be mistaken for a low-sugar healthy beverage.