That glass of chilled sugarcane juice from a roadside stall is almost irresistible in the Indian summer. It’s sweet, refreshing, and instantly gives you a burst of energy. For centuries, sugarcane has been enjoyed not just as a crop but also as a natural source of hydration. The juice is loaded with antioxidants, electrolytes, iron, calcium, and potassium, making it sound like the perfect health drink. In fact, Ayurveda often mentions sugarcane juice as a natural coolant that can balance the body’s internal heat. A comprehensive review of sugarcane juice published in Research Gate highlights its rich phytochemical content and therapeutic properties, confirming its role as a nutritious and health-supportive beverage.
But here’s the catch: just because something is natural doesn’t mean it’s right for everyone. Sugarcane juice is extremely high in natural sugar, and when consumed without caution, it can harm more than it heals. From raising blood sugar levels to increasing calorie intake, it may create health risks that most people don’t think about while sipping it on a hot afternoon. Moreover, reports from the WHO show that roadside vendors often use unwashed machines or ice that can lead to contamination and infections.
That’s why it’s important to know exactly who should be careful. While sugarcane juice is safe for many, certain groups of people should not drink sugarcane juice or at least consume it under strict moderation, according to studies published in the EAS Journal of Health and Clinical Studies and ClinConnect.
People who should avoid drinking sugarcane juice
People with diabetes
Sugarcane juice may look like a natural alternative to aerated drinks, but for diabetics, it’s one of the riskiest beverages. A single glass can contain up to 40–50 grams of sugar, which is almost the same as a soft drink. The high glycaemic index means it quickly spikes blood sugar levels, which can be dangerous for people managing Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes.
A study published in the EAS Journal of Health and Clinical Studies examined the glycemic response of sugarcane juice in healthy individuals. The study found that sugarcane juice led to a significant increase in blood glucose levels, indicating its high glycemic response. Given that individuals with diabetes have impaired insulin function, consuming sugarcane juice could exacerbate blood sugar control issues. Therefore, diabetics should avoid or limit their intake of sugarcane juice.
People with obesity or weight issues
If you are trying to lose weight, sugarcane juice is not your best friend. While it contains nutrients, it is also calorie-dense and full of natural sugar. A 250 ml serving can carry anywhere between 150–180 calories, all of which come mainly from sugar. Regularly drinking it can add up to a high-calorie intake that leads to weight gain instead of fat loss.
Obesity is already linked to health conditions such as heart disease, fatty liver , and high cholesterol, and sugarcane juice can silently worsen these risks. For those on weight management plans, it’s better to stick to low-calorie drinks like infused water, unsweetened herbal teas, or coconut water instead.
People with low immunity
Sugarcane juice is often sold on streets, where hygiene is not always guaranteed. The juice is usually extracted from cane pressed through machines that may not be cleaned properly. The use of dirty water or unfiltered ice further increases the risk of contamination. For people with strong immunity, the body may fight off minor infections.
But for those with low immunity, including the elderly, children, or people recovering from illness, even mild contamination can cause stomach infections, diarrhoea, or food poisoning. In such cases, sugarcane juice becomes more harmful than refreshing. It’s always safer for vulnerable individuals to avoid roadside juice and opt for properly prepared drinks at home.
People with jaundice or liver problems
Sugarcane juice is often recommended in Ayurveda for liver health, especially in jaundice. However, modern health experts warn that not all cases of liver weakness benefit from it. For people suffering from advanced liver disease, fatty liver, or cirrhosis, sugarcane juice can overload the system with sugar and worsen liver stress. A recent clinical trial published in ClinConnect explored sugarcane juice’s effects on liver patients, suggesting that while it might help in some cases, consumption should always be guided by a healthcare professional.
Moreover, if the juice is contaminated, it can further increase the risk of infection in an already weak organ. While moderate consumption may help in some recovery cases, it should always be under medical guidance. Self-medicating with sugarcane juice can do more harm than good.
People prone to tooth decay
Sugarcane is one of the stickiest sweet juices you can drink, and its high sugar content easily clings to the teeth. If not rinsed properly, it can lead to bacterial growth, cavities, and gum issues. People who already have dental problems like sensitive teeth, tooth decay, or gum infections should be extra cautious.
Dentists often warn that frequent sipping of sugary drinks is worse than occasional indulgence because it keeps sugar constantly in contact with the enamel. If someone enjoys sugarcane juice occasionally, it’s best to drink water immediately after or brush teeth soon to prevent decay.
People with digestive issues
While sugarcane juice is refreshing for many, it may not suit people with weak digestion, bloating, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The juice is rich in simple sugars that ferment quickly in the stomach, sometimes causing gas or discomfort. In cases of diarrhoea, drinking sugarcane juice can make symptoms worse because it adds more sugar and fluid load to the digestive system.
People with gastritis or frequent acidity may also find sugarcane juice irritating. Instead, soothing drinks like buttermilk or ginger tea may be a better option for sensitive stomachs.
Sugarcane juice is one of the most loved traditional summer drinks, but it’s not as harmless as it looks. While it provides hydration and some nutrients, the sugar load, calorie count, and hygiene risks make it unsuitable for certain groups. People with diabetes, obesity, low immunity, liver problems, tooth decay, or digestive issues should avoid or strictly limit sugarcane juice to prevent complications.
For everyone else, the key is moderation; an occasional glass from a hygienic source is fine, but overindulgence is never healthy. Remember, even natural drinks can have side effects if not consumed wisely. It’s also important to stay informed about the source and preparation of sugarcane juice to minimize contamination risks. Pairing it with a balanced diet and regular hydration from water can help enjoy its benefits safely. Additionally, avoiding consumption on an empty stomach and limiting intake for those with diabetes or digestive sensitivities can further reduce potential side effects while still enjoying its refreshing taste.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or lifestyle change.
Also read| 5 types of people who should not eat pomegranates
But here’s the catch: just because something is natural doesn’t mean it’s right for everyone. Sugarcane juice is extremely high in natural sugar, and when consumed without caution, it can harm more than it heals. From raising blood sugar levels to increasing calorie intake, it may create health risks that most people don’t think about while sipping it on a hot afternoon. Moreover, reports from the WHO show that roadside vendors often use unwashed machines or ice that can lead to contamination and infections.
That’s why it’s important to know exactly who should be careful. While sugarcane juice is safe for many, certain groups of people should not drink sugarcane juice or at least consume it under strict moderation, according to studies published in the EAS Journal of Health and Clinical Studies and ClinConnect.
People who should avoid drinking sugarcane juice
People with diabetes
Sugarcane juice may look like a natural alternative to aerated drinks, but for diabetics, it’s one of the riskiest beverages. A single glass can contain up to 40–50 grams of sugar, which is almost the same as a soft drink. The high glycaemic index means it quickly spikes blood sugar levels, which can be dangerous for people managing Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes.
A study published in the EAS Journal of Health and Clinical Studies examined the glycemic response of sugarcane juice in healthy individuals. The study found that sugarcane juice led to a significant increase in blood glucose levels, indicating its high glycemic response. Given that individuals with diabetes have impaired insulin function, consuming sugarcane juice could exacerbate blood sugar control issues. Therefore, diabetics should avoid or limit their intake of sugarcane juice.
People with obesity or weight issues
If you are trying to lose weight, sugarcane juice is not your best friend. While it contains nutrients, it is also calorie-dense and full of natural sugar. A 250 ml serving can carry anywhere between 150–180 calories, all of which come mainly from sugar. Regularly drinking it can add up to a high-calorie intake that leads to weight gain instead of fat loss.
Obesity is already linked to health conditions such as heart disease, fatty liver , and high cholesterol, and sugarcane juice can silently worsen these risks. For those on weight management plans, it’s better to stick to low-calorie drinks like infused water, unsweetened herbal teas, or coconut water instead.
People with low immunity
Sugarcane juice is often sold on streets, where hygiene is not always guaranteed. The juice is usually extracted from cane pressed through machines that may not be cleaned properly. The use of dirty water or unfiltered ice further increases the risk of contamination. For people with strong immunity, the body may fight off minor infections.
But for those with low immunity, including the elderly, children, or people recovering from illness, even mild contamination can cause stomach infections, diarrhoea, or food poisoning. In such cases, sugarcane juice becomes more harmful than refreshing. It’s always safer for vulnerable individuals to avoid roadside juice and opt for properly prepared drinks at home.
People with jaundice or liver problems
Sugarcane juice is often recommended in Ayurveda for liver health, especially in jaundice. However, modern health experts warn that not all cases of liver weakness benefit from it. For people suffering from advanced liver disease, fatty liver, or cirrhosis, sugarcane juice can overload the system with sugar and worsen liver stress. A recent clinical trial published in ClinConnect explored sugarcane juice’s effects on liver patients, suggesting that while it might help in some cases, consumption should always be guided by a healthcare professional.
Moreover, if the juice is contaminated, it can further increase the risk of infection in an already weak organ. While moderate consumption may help in some recovery cases, it should always be under medical guidance. Self-medicating with sugarcane juice can do more harm than good.
People prone to tooth decay
Sugarcane is one of the stickiest sweet juices you can drink, and its high sugar content easily clings to the teeth. If not rinsed properly, it can lead to bacterial growth, cavities, and gum issues. People who already have dental problems like sensitive teeth, tooth decay, or gum infections should be extra cautious.
Dentists often warn that frequent sipping of sugary drinks is worse than occasional indulgence because it keeps sugar constantly in contact with the enamel. If someone enjoys sugarcane juice occasionally, it’s best to drink water immediately after or brush teeth soon to prevent decay.
People with digestive issues
While sugarcane juice is refreshing for many, it may not suit people with weak digestion, bloating, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The juice is rich in simple sugars that ferment quickly in the stomach, sometimes causing gas or discomfort. In cases of diarrhoea, drinking sugarcane juice can make symptoms worse because it adds more sugar and fluid load to the digestive system.
People with gastritis or frequent acidity may also find sugarcane juice irritating. Instead, soothing drinks like buttermilk or ginger tea may be a better option for sensitive stomachs.
Sugarcane juice is one of the most loved traditional summer drinks, but it’s not as harmless as it looks. While it provides hydration and some nutrients, the sugar load, calorie count, and hygiene risks make it unsuitable for certain groups. People with diabetes, obesity, low immunity, liver problems, tooth decay, or digestive issues should avoid or strictly limit sugarcane juice to prevent complications.
For everyone else, the key is moderation; an occasional glass from a hygienic source is fine, but overindulgence is never healthy. Remember, even natural drinks can have side effects if not consumed wisely. It’s also important to stay informed about the source and preparation of sugarcane juice to minimize contamination risks. Pairing it with a balanced diet and regular hydration from water can help enjoy its benefits safely. Additionally, avoiding consumption on an empty stomach and limiting intake for those with diabetes or digestive sensitivities can further reduce potential side effects while still enjoying its refreshing taste.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or lifestyle change.
Also read| 5 types of people who should not eat pomegranates
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