"Thought It Was Healthy"... Morning Misutgaru, Blood Sugar Spike Warning

Rapid Digestion and Absorption Can Cause Blood Sugar Spikes
Adding Sugar or Honey Further Increases Glycemic Load

Experts have issued a warning that Misutgaru—a popular and convenient breakfast replacement—can rapidly spike blood sugar levels. Because it is made by finely grinding grains and consumed as a liquid, it is quickly digested and absorbed. In addition, adding sugar or honey can further increase the glycemic load.

Image of misutgaru to aid article understanding. Pexels

Family medicine specialist Jinbok Lee shared results measuring changes in blood sugar after drinking Misutgaru on his YouTube channel.

Lee explained that his blood sugar, which was 97 mg/dL before consuming Misutgaru in the morning, rose to 184 mg/dL afterward. While individual responses may vary, he noted that a significant morning spike in blood sugar could make subsequent blood sugar management more challenging.

Even as a Grain Drink, Powdered Form Is Absorbed Quickly

Misutgaru is made by roasting and finely grinding grains such as barley, brown rice, glutinous rice, and beans. Although it is widely regarded as a healthy food due to its grain content, its finely milled particles and the fact that it is often consumed quickly mixed with water or milk can result in faster digestion and absorption compared to solid foods.

According to the Korean Diabetes Association’s food exchange list, Misutgaru is classified as part of the grains group. Thirty grams of Misutgaru corresponds to one grain exchange unit, with each unit containing about 100 kcal and 23 grams of carbohydrates.

Carbohydrates are broken down into glucose after consumption and directly impact blood sugar. The finer the grains are ground, the shorter the digestion process, potentially leading to a quicker rise in blood glucose.

Adding Sugar or Honey Further Increases Glycemic Load

When sugar or honey is added to Misutgaru for sweetness, the total intake of carbohydrates and sugars increases, which can cause a greater spike in blood sugar. It is also important to avoid drinking large amounts at once or habitually consuming Misutgaru as a meal replacement on an empty stomach.

A rapid increase in blood sugar prompts the body to secrete more insulin in an effort to lower it. Experts explain that if these blood sugar fluctuations occur repeatedly, it can place additional strain on blood sugar regulation.

Experts recommend moderating portion sizes and avoiding excessive sweetness when drinking Misutgaru as a breakfast substitute. In particular, people who need to manage their blood sugar, such as those with diabetes, should be especially cautious about consuming it on an empty stomach.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.