Experts Warn: Americano and Sweet Potatoes Can Spike Blood Sugar

Commonly perceived healthy dietary choices, such as drinking Americano coffee instead of mixed coffee and consuming potatoes or sweet potatoes instead of white rice, may actually lead to elevated blood sugar levels, according to medical experts. Dr. Lee Jae-hyuk, an endocrinologist at Myongji Hospital, highlighted this concern during an appearance on the YouTube channel 'Kim Jae-won TV,' which has over 550,000 subscribers.

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There are quite a few people who come to the clinic saying their blood sugar has risen even after quitting mixed coffee, switching to Americano, and eating a lot of potatoes and sweet potatoes instead of rice, experiencing blood sugar spikes.

Dr. Lee stated that many patients report experiencing significant blood sugar increases even after switching from mixed coffee to Americano and replacing rice with potatoes and sweet potatoes. He addressed the misconception surrounding Americano, explaining that while it has very low calories, the caffeine content can stimulate the release of hormones like cortisol and epinephrine. These hormones, in turn, can elevate blood sugar levels. Therefore, he advised against assuming Americano is entirely safe for blood sugar management.

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Americano itself has very low calories, but caffeine stimulates hormones that activate the body, such as cortisol or epinephrine, and has the effect of raising blood sugar a little.

Similarly, the choice to consume potatoes and sweet potatoes over white rice is also questioned. Dr. Lee pointed out that these root vegetables, when consumed, can also lead to substantial spikes in blood sugar. The article implies that the way these foods are prepared and consumed significantly impacts their effect on glucose levels, suggesting a need for greater awareness beyond simple substitutions.

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It's better to put aside the thought that 'Americano is completely safe.'