In my office pantry, Biscoff biscuits are always kept with tea and coffee, and it’s very tempting. Compared to other regular biscuits, are Biscoff any better or worse nutritionally?

Ans: Both monk fruit and stevia are excellent natural, zero-calorie sweeteners, but they have some differences. Monk fruit sweetener is about 150-200 times sweeter than sugar, contains zero calories, and doesn't impact blood sugar levels. Stevia is also a zero-calorie sweetener, about 200-300 times sweeter than sugar, and also does not raise blood sugar levels. The choice will depend on your personal preference and availability. Yes, palm sugar can be used in tea and coffee. It's a natural sweetener derived from the sap of palm trees and has a lower glycemic index than regular sugar.

Ans: Most biscuits are made with refined flour and sugar, offering little to no fiber, protein, or essential nutrients. Many packaged biscuits contain trans fats or hydrogenated oils, which raise bad cholesterol (LDL) and lower good cholesterol (HDL), increasing heart disease risk. Tea contains tannins that can increase stomach acidity. Paired with sugary biscuits, this may worsen acid reflux, bloating, or indigestion. Tannins in tea can interfere with iron and calcium absorption, especially when consumed with nutrient-poor foods like biscuits. Wait at least 1 hour before or after meals to enjoy tea or coffee, especially if the meal includes iron-rich plant foods. Healthier alternatives that may be paired with tea or coffee include nuts and seeds, fresh fruits, whole grain crackers, roasted chana, boiled mung or sprouts, etc.

Ans: That’s such a relatable challenge! I completely understand the temptation when biscuits are always around! The good news is you can absolutely enjoy tea-time without guilt if you keep diabetes-friendly snacks handy. The trick is to choose options that are low in refined carbs, high in fiber or protein, and portion-controlled so they satisfy cravings without spiking blood sugar. Include roasted chana (gram), unsalted nuts (almonds, walnuts, pistachios), seeds mix (flax, pumpkin, sunflower), roasted makhana (fox nuts) or low GI fruits like apple or guava slices paired with a few nuts, cucumber/carrot sticks with dips like hummus or hung curd.