Lemon cordial, or limoncello, is made from the juice of fresh lemons, vodka and granulated sugar. Fruit juice and sugar can be problematic for diabetics and can raise blood sugar levels because they are absorbed quickly into the body. Alcohol can cause blood sugar levels to drop dangerously, especially on an empty stomach. However, a small lemon cordial may be suitable for a diabetic who has already eaten and monitors his blood sugar levels.
Glycemic Index
The glycemic index (GI) assigns a number value to food to indicate how much of an impact carbs in these foods will have on blood sugar levels. Table sugar has an medium GI value of about 60 to 65. Lemon juice also has a medium GI value at 37 to 70. Vodka contains no carbohydrates and does not have a GI value assigned. Thus, a lemon cordial may raise blood sugar levels fairly quickly.
Carb Counting
Counting the carbs or carbohydrates in a lemon cordial may give a diabetic the best indication as to what the drink will do to blood sugar levels. It is best to start with a small amount of lemon cordial. Two oz. of lemon juice contains 14 g of carbs. One oz. of vodka contains no carbs. One tbsp. of sugar contains almost 17 g of carbs. Add 1 oz. of water to the mix. This creates about 1/3 cup of lemon cordial that contains about 31 g of carbs.
Alcohol's Effect
A small amount of lemon cordial can contain many carbs even when vodka has no carbs at all. The ingredient amounts can be altered to create more or less lemon cordial; however, the carb content may remain high. Alcohol can lower blood sugar levels and can continue to do so for eight to 12 hours after a drink containing alcohol is consumed. It is important for a diabetic who consumes alcoholic drinks to check blood sugar levels before and after drinking.
Substitutions
Sugar substitutes such as xylitol, agave nectar, fructose, brown rice syrup, raw honey, apple juice and artificial sweeteners all have a lower GI index value than granulated table sugar. A diabetic can create a healthier lemon cordial by substituting one of these ingredients for granulated table sugar. More water and less vodka may also create a lemon cordial that is still satisfying for a diabetic.
