4 min learnNew DelhiMight 2, 2026 06:00 AM IST
For a lot of Indians, chai is greater than only a beverage; it’s a ritual. Whether or not it’s the first cup of the morning or a night pause after work, tea typically feels incomplete with out one thing crunchy to dip into it. Biscuits and rusks are the commonest companions, however for individuals watching their blood sugar, these small indulgences could also be extra important than they appear. Whereas they could seem innocent, these tea-time staples are sometimes loaded with refined flour, added sugar, and unhealthy fat that may quietly disrupt glucose management.
In keeping with Dr Pranav Ghody, Guide Endocrinologist & Diabetologist, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, the distinction between biscuits and rusks is smaller than most individuals assume.
DISCLAIMER: This text relies on data from the general public area and/or the specialists we spoke to. All the time seek the advice of your well being practitioner earlier than beginning any routine.
Biscuits vs Rusks: Which is much less dangerous?
“Between the 2, plain rusks are barely much less dangerous, primarily as a result of they’re drier and infrequently include rather less fats in comparison with biscuits,” says Dr Ghody. “Nonetheless, the distinction shouldn’t be dramatic. Each are largely constituted of refined flour, and each can raise blood sugar quickly.”
“Having one small piece as an alternative of mindlessly consuming 4 or 5 makes a a lot larger distinction than merely selecting rusks over biscuits,” he provides.
Why refined flour and sugar trigger hassle
The principle subject lies within the substances. Most business biscuits and rusks are made utilizing maida or refined flour, which is quickly damaged down by the physique, says Dr Ghody. “Refined flour will get digested very quick, which causes a fast spike in blood sugar,” explains Dr Ghody. “When sugar is added on high of that, the glucose rise turns into even sharper.”
This fast spike is commonly adopted by a sudden drop, resulting in starvation and cravings shortly after. It creates a cycle of repeated snacking and unstable sugar ranges, he provides.
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Chai biscuit vs Chai rusk (Picture: Freepik)
The hidden fats drawback
“These fat usually are not simply empty energy,” says Dr Ghody. “Over time, they will worsen insulin resistance, which implies the physique turns into much less efficient at dealing with glucose.” Insulin resistance is among the main contributors to Sort 2 diabetes and metabolic points. So whereas a biscuit could seem to be a tiny indulgence, common consumption can have a bigger long-term impression.
He factors out that even “digestive” or “lite” biscuits marketed as more healthy choices can nonetheless include important quantities of refined flour and unhealthy fats.
Higher options with chai
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Dr Ghody recommends changing biscuits and rusks with snacks that provide protein, fibre, or wholesome fat. “Higher choices embrace a handful of roasted chana, a small portion of peanuts, makhana, or perhaps a slice of multigrain toast with peanut butter. A boiled egg additionally works very effectively as a result of it gives protein and retains you fuller for longer.”
These meals decelerate sugar absorption, scale back post-meal glucose spikes, and forestall pointless cravings later. He additionally advises being attentive to the tea itself. “If the chai incorporates an excessive amount of sugar, even the healthiest snack is not going to totally stability that out. Lowering sugar in tea is equally vital.”
DISCLAIMER: This text relies on data from the general public area and/or the specialists we spoke to. All the time seek the advice of your well being practitioner earlier than beginning any routine.
