As a doctor with many years of clinical experience, I have seen too many diabetic patients focus their energy on calculating carbohydrates for each meal, often overlooking the most fundamental and critical aspect—drinking water. Many patients ask, "Doctor, since my blood sugar is high, should I drink more water?" The answer is yes. Adequate hydration helps dilute the blood and promote metabolism. However, drinking water is not as simple as "the more, the better, anytime is fine." Especially during two key periods, drinking incorrectly may disrupt blood sugar levels. Timing of Water Intake Managing blood sugar requires careful attention to both the timing and amount of water intake. For diabetic patients, two specific periods require extra caution. It is not advisable to drink large amounts of water within half an hour before a meal. Many patients believe drinking water before meals can increase satiety and help control food intake. However, from a physiological perspective, this may backfire. Large amounts of water can dilute gastric acid and digestive enzymes, weakening the initial digestive capacity of the stomach and intestines. More importantly, this may accelerate gastric emptying. Food, especially carbohydrates, enters the small intestine more quickly for absorption, potentially leading to a faster and higher postprandial blood sugar spike, which is detrimental to stable blood sugar levels. Drinking large amounts of water immediately after a meal is another common misconception. Many people have the habit of drinking tea or soup after meals. Drinking large amounts of water at this time further accelerates the emptying of stomach contents into the intestines, causing similar issues as drinking before meals: altered digestion and absorption rates of food, increasing the risk of blood sugar fluctuations. The ideal clinical recommendation is to schedule water intake between meals, such as between 9-10 AM and 3-4 PM. If you wish to control appetite before a meal, drink 200-300 milliliters of water about an hour in advance to allow sufficient time for the body to adjust. Principles of Hydration In addition to timing, the "amount" and "quality" of scientific hydration are equally important. Adhering to the following principles can make drinking water a true ally in blood sugar control. Ensure adequate total intake and avoid drinking only when thirsty. The recommended daily water intake for adult diabetic patients is generally 1.5 to 2 liters (approximately 7-8 cups), which can be adjusted based on activity levels and seasons. However, do not wait until you feel noticeably thirsty to drink water, as thirst indicates mild dehydration, leading to relatively concentrated blood, which is unfavorable for blood sugar control. Pay attention to water quality, with plain water being the top choice. The best beverages are always plain water or lightly brewed tea. Strictly avoid sugary drinks, including fruit juices, colas, and various "sports drinks." Even beverages labeled "sugar-free" should be scrutinized for other potential additives. Maintain a steady pace, with small sips being preferable. Avoid chugging a large bottle of water at once, as this places unnecessary strain on the heart and kidneys. The correct approach is to replenish fluids evenly, in small amounts, and multiple times throughout the day, drinking about 200 milliliters (approximately one cup) at a time, taking small sips. Suitable Tea Beverages On the journey to blood sugar control, in addition to plain water, appropriately consuming some traditional herbal teas is also a good option. They not only add flavor to hydration but may also assist in blood sugar management due to certain components. Below are several research-backed, relatively mild recommendations: Mulberry Leaf Tea Mulberry leaves have long been used in traditional medicine for "thirst-wasting disorder" (a traditional Chinese medicine term for diabetes symptoms). Modern research has found that components such as alkaloids (e.g., 1-deoxynojirimycin) in mulberry leaves can inhibit the activity of glycosidase in the intestines, thereby delaying carbohydrate absorption and helping to reduce postprandial blood sugar spikes. It has a fresh, slightly sweet, and bitter taste. Tartary Buckwheat Tea Tartary buckwheat is a nutrient-rich grain. Its tea is rich in flavonoids (such as rutin) and dietary fiber. These components help improve insulin sensitivity and provide a sense of satiety. Tartary buckwheat tea has a rich, wheat-like aroma and a mellow taste, making it an excellent alternative to regular tea. Green Tea Green tea is unfermented and retains abundant tea polyphenols, particularly catechins. Multiple studies have shown that catechins possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help improve glucose and lipid metabolism and protect pancreatic beta cell function. Avoid brewing it too strong or drinking it on an empty stomach. Auxiliary Herbal Teas Lotus Leaf Tea: Traditional Chinese medicine believes it has heat-clearing and dampness-draining effects, making it a good auxiliary option for diabetic patients with high blood lipids or obesity. Hawthorn Tea: Aids digestion and promotes blood circulation, suitable for diabetic patients with poor appetite or mild cardiovascular risks. However, those with excessive stomach acid should use it with caution. Important Reminders Before trying any tea beverages, please keep the following core principles in mind to ensure safety: First, tea beverages are "supplements," not "medications." All these teas should only serve as complements to a healthy diet and lifestyle and must never replace standardized medication, insulin injections, or doctor-prescribed blood sugar management plans. Relying solely on tea to lower blood sugar is dangerous and unrealistic. Second, individual responses vary; observe your own reactions. Everyone's constitution is different, and reactions to the same tea may vary. When trying a tea for the first time, start with a weak brew and a small amount, and closely monitor blood sugar changes before and after consumption. If abnormal blood sugar fluctuations or physical discomfort occur, discontinue use immediately. Third, pay attention to consumption methods. Brew tea lightly; avoid making it too strong or too hot. Refrain from adding sugar, honey, or other sweeteners to tea. The best time to drink tea is still between meals. Avoid consuming large amounts on an empty stomach or before bedtime to prevent affecting sleep or gastrointestinal function. For diabetic patients, managing blood sugar is a systematic project involving diet, exercise, medication, monitoring, and other aspects. Scientific hydration is an important and foundational cornerstone of this systematic project. Drinking a glass of water correctly can sometimes be as crucial as eating a proper meal. Avoid misconceptions, master the principles, and let every glass of water become an aid to stabilizing your blood sugar, not a burden.