Can green tea help prevent diabetes. How does green tea affect blood sugar levels. What are the potential benefits of green tea for people with diabetes. Is green tea safe for diabetics to drink.

Understanding Diabetes: Types and Challenges

Diabetes is a chronic health condition affecting nearly 10 percent of the United States population, according to the American Diabetes Foundation. For those living with diabetes, managing blood sugar levels becomes a daily priority to maintain overall health.

There are two main types of diabetes:

• Type 1 diabetes: An autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
• Type 2 diabetes: A metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance, where cells become less responsive to insulin, often accompanied by insufficient insulin production.

Type 2 diabetes is more prevalent, accounting for 90-95% of diabetes cases in the United States. While medication and insulin injections are common treatments, research suggests that green tea may offer potential benefits for diabetes management and prevention.

The Potential of Green Tea in Diabetes Prevention

Several studies have explored the possible role of green tea in reducing the risk of developing diabetes. One notable study conducted in Japan found that individuals who consumed six or more cups of green tea daily had a 33% lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared to those who drank only one cup per week.

Additionally, research has indicated that consistent green tea consumption over a decade may contribute to smaller waist circumferences and lower body fat levels, potentially reducing the risk of obesity – a significant risk factor for type 2 diabetes.

How might green tea help prevent diabetes?

The preventive effects of green tea are believed to be linked to its rich content of catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). These compounds have been associated with improved insulin sensitivity and reduced inflammation, both of which play crucial roles in diabetes prevention.

Green Tea’s Impact on Blood Sugar Management

For individuals already diagnosed with diabetes, green tea may offer potential benefits in managing blood sugar levels. A comprehensive review of multiple studies found that green tea consumption was associated with:

• Decreased fasting glucose levels
• Reduced A1C levels (a measure of average blood sugar over 2-3 months)
• Lower fasting insulin levels

These findings suggest that green tea could potentially aid in improving glycemic control for people with diabetes. However, it’s important to note that not all studies have shown consistent positive results, and more research is needed to fully understand the extent of green tea’s effects on diabetes management.

What mechanisms contribute to green tea’s blood sugar-lowering effects?

The Pacific College of Oriental Medicine attributes the potential benefits of green tea for diabetes management to the antioxidant activity of polyphenols and polysaccharides found in the tea. These compounds may help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce oxidative stress, which are key factors in managing diabetes.

Additional Health Benefits of Green Tea for Diabetics

Beyond its potential effects on blood sugar control, green tea offers several other health benefits that may be particularly advantageous for individuals with diabetes:

1. Cardiovascular health: Green tea has been associated with improved cholesterol levels and blood pressure management, which is crucial for diabetics who are at higher risk of heart disease.
2. Weight management: The catechins in green tea may help boost metabolism and increase fat burning, supporting weight loss efforts.
3. Antioxidant properties: Green tea’s high antioxidant content may help combat oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which are elevated in diabetes.
4. Reduced cancer risk: Some studies suggest that the antioxidants in green tea may have anticancer properties, which could be beneficial for overall health.

Incorporating Green Tea into a Diabetes-Friendly Diet

For individuals with diabetes looking to incorporate green tea into their diet, it’s essential to consider how to consume it most effectively:

• Drink it plain: To avoid blood glucose fluctuations, it’s best to consume green tea without added milk or sweeteners.
• Choose high-quality tea: While tea bags are convenient, loose leaf tea or matcha powder may offer a more concentrated source of beneficial compounds.
• Consider timing: Some people find that drinking green tea with meals helps mitigate post-meal blood sugar spikes.

Is matcha green tea a better option for diabetics?

Matcha, a powdered form of green tea, may offer even more potent benefits due to its concentrated nature. When consuming matcha, you ingest the whole tea leaf, potentially providing a higher dose of antioxidants and other beneficial compounds compared to steeped green tea.

Potential Risks and Considerations

While green tea is generally considered safe, there are some factors to consider, especially for people with diabetes:

• Caffeine content: Green tea contains caffeine, which can affect blood sugar levels in some individuals. It’s important to monitor your response to green tea consumption.
• Interaction with medications: Green tea may interact with certain diabetes medications or blood thinners. Consult with a healthcare provider before adding significant amounts of green tea to your diet.
• Blood sugar variability: Some people may experience changes in blood sugar levels when consuming green tea. Regular monitoring is crucial when introducing green tea into your routine.

Can green tea consumption lead to hypoglycemia in diabetics?

While rare, there have been reports of green tea contributing to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) in some individuals with diabetes. This underscores the importance of monitoring blood sugar levels closely when incorporating green tea into your diet and discussing any changes with your healthcare provider.

Research Limitations and Future Directions

Despite the promising findings on green tea and diabetes, it’s important to acknowledge the limitations of current research:

• Variability in study designs and populations
• Inconsistent dosages and preparation methods of green tea across studies
• Limited long-term studies on the effects of green tea consumption

Future research should focus on:

1. Determining optimal dosages for diabetes prevention and management
2. Investigating the long-term effects of green tea consumption on diabetes outcomes
3. Exploring potential synergistic effects of green tea with other dietary interventions or medications
4. Conducting larger, well-controlled clinical trials to strengthen the evidence base

How might future research improve our understanding of green tea’s effects on diabetes?

Advancements in research methodologies, such as metabolomics and genomics, could provide deeper insights into the mechanisms by which green tea influences glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity. This could lead to more targeted recommendations for green tea consumption in diabetes prevention and management.

Integrating Green Tea into a Comprehensive Diabetes Management Plan

While green tea shows promise in supporting diabetes management, it should be viewed as a complementary approach rather than a standalone treatment. A comprehensive diabetes management plan typically includes:

• Balanced diet rich in whole foods
• Regular physical activity
• Stress management techniques
• Consistent blood glucose monitoring
• Adherence to prescribed medications
• Regular check-ups with healthcare providers

Green tea can be incorporated into this holistic approach, potentially offering additional benefits to overall health and well-being.

How can individuals with diabetes safely experiment with green tea consumption?

To safely integrate green tea into a diabetes management plan:

1. Start with small amounts and gradually increase intake
2. Monitor blood sugar levels closely to observe any effects
3. Keep a journal to track green tea consumption and any changes in blood sugar or overall well-being
4. Discuss green tea consumption with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian
5. Be consistent with timing and preparation methods to better understand its effects

By taking a cautious and informed approach, individuals with diabetes can explore the potential benefits of green tea while minimizing any risks.

The Role of Antioxidants in Green Tea for Diabetes Management

The antioxidants found in green tea, particularly catechins, play a crucial role in its potential benefits for diabetes management. These compounds help combat oxidative stress, which is often elevated in individuals with diabetes and can contribute to various complications.

How do antioxidants in green tea benefit people with diabetes?

Antioxidants in green tea may benefit individuals with diabetes in several ways:

• Reducing inflammation: Chronic inflammation is often associated with insulin resistance and diabetes progression. Green tea’s anti-inflammatory properties may help mitigate this effect.
• Protecting beta cells: Antioxidants may help protect insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas from oxidative damage, potentially preserving insulin production capacity.
• Improving insulin sensitivity: Some studies suggest that green tea antioxidants may enhance insulin sensitivity, allowing cells to respond more effectively to insulin.
• Supporting cardiovascular health: The antioxidant properties of green tea may help protect blood vessels from damage, reducing the risk of cardiovascular complications associated with diabetes.

While these potential benefits are promising, it’s important to note that the effects of green tea antioxidants can vary among individuals, and more research is needed to fully understand their impact on diabetes management.

Green Tea and Weight Management in Diabetes

Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for managing diabetes, as excess body fat can contribute to insulin resistance and difficulties in blood sugar control. Green tea has been studied for its potential role in supporting weight management, which could indirectly benefit diabetes control.

Can green tea aid in weight loss for individuals with diabetes?

While green tea is not a magic solution for weight loss, some studies suggest it may offer modest benefits:

• Increased metabolism: The caffeine and catechins in green tea may slightly boost metabolic rate, potentially increasing calorie burning.
• Fat oxidation: Some research indicates that green tea may enhance the body’s ability to burn fat, particularly during exercise.
• Appetite regulation: Certain compounds in green tea might help regulate appetite, potentially reducing overall calorie intake.

It’s important to note that the weight management effects of green tea are generally subtle and should be combined with a balanced diet and regular physical activity for optimal results. For individuals with diabetes, any weight loss efforts should be undertaken under the guidance of a healthcare provider to ensure safety and proper blood sugar management.

Green Tea Varieties and Their Potential Impact on Diabetes

While all true tea comes from the Camellia sinensis plant, different processing methods result in various types of green tea, each with its own flavor profile and potentially different health benefits. Some common varieties of green tea include:

• Sencha: A Japanese green tea with a balanced flavor, rich in catechins
• Gyokuro: A shade-grown Japanese tea with a sweet, umami flavor and high theanine content
• Longjing (Dragon Well): A Chinese green tea known for its flat leaves and nutty flavor
• Matcha: A powdered Japanese green tea with a concentrated nutrient profile
• Genmaicha: A Japanese green tea blended with roasted brown rice, offering a unique flavor profile

Do different green tea varieties offer varying benefits for diabetes management?

While all green teas contain beneficial compounds, their concentrations can vary based on factors such as growing conditions, processing methods, and preparation techniques. Some studies suggest that matcha may offer higher concentrations of certain antioxidants due to the consumption of the whole leaf. However, more research is needed to determine if specific varieties of green tea are more beneficial for diabetes management than others.

When choosing a green tea, consider factors such as flavor preference, caffeine content, and any specific health goals. Experimenting with different varieties may help you find the one that best fits your taste and lifestyle while potentially offering diabetes management benefits.

Combining Green Tea with Other Diabetes-Friendly Foods

While green tea on its own may offer potential benefits for diabetes management, combining it with other diabetes-friendly foods could potentially enhance its effects and contribute to overall health. Some complementary foods to consider include:

• Cinnamon: Known for its potential blood sugar-lowering properties
• Berries: Rich in antioxidants and fiber, which may help with blood sugar control
• Nuts: Provide healthy fats and protein, which can help stabilize blood sugar levels
• Leafy greens: High in nutrients and low in carbohydrates, supporting overall health
• Fatty fish: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which may improve insulin sensitivity

How can green tea be incorporated into diabetes-friendly meals and snacks?

Consider these ideas for integrating green tea into a diabetes-friendly diet:

1. Use brewed green tea as a base for smoothies with berries and leafy greens
2. Incorporate matcha powder into yogurt or oatmeal for a nutrient-rich breakfast
3. Use cooled green tea as a marinade for lean proteins like chicken or fish
4. Brew a strong cup of green tea to use as a cooking liquid for whole grains like quinoa or brown rice
5. Create a refreshing iced tea by combining green tea with sliced citrus fruits and herbs (without added sugars)

Remember to consider the overall carbohydrate content of meals and snacks, and monitor blood sugar levels when trying new food combinations. Always consult with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized advice on incorporating green tea and other foods into a diabetes management plan.

Green Tea and Diabetes: Prevention and Management

Green Tea and Diabetes: Prevention and Management

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Medically reviewed by Peggy Pletcher, M. S., R.D., L.D., CDE — By Anna Schaefer — Updated on August 20, 2018

Nearly 10 percent of people in the United States have diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Foundation.

When you have diabetes, life becomes all about regulating your blood sugar to stay healthy. And while many must turn to medication and insulin injections, there is evidence to suggest that drinking green tea could make diabetes management easier.

Several studies have pointed to green tea as a potentially effective method of controlling diabetes, and even improving insulin sensitivity. Just how it works isn’t completely clear, but it’s believed catechins within the tea — also responsible for its anticancer and heart health benefits — may be responsible.

When you eat foods with carbohydrates, they are digested into sugar. In response, the pancreas releases insulin to help cells absorb glucose to be used as fuel. However, when you have diabetes, the process is hindered.

People with type 2 diabetes have cells that are desensitized to insulin, which is known as insulin resistance. This, and the fact that the pancreas often stops releasing enough insulin, makes their blood sugar levels difficult to control.

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease; the cells of the pancreas that produce insulin are attacked and killed by the body’s immune system, and simply do not produce insulin at all.

8 Essential Benefits of Green Tea »

Most studies on the effects of green tea in people with diabetes have focused on type 2 diabetes, as it is more common, accounting for 90 to 95 percent of the diabetes seen in the United States.

There are indications that green tea can reduce the risk of developing diabetes. According to one study in Japan, people who drank six or more cups of green tea daily were 33 percent less likely to develop type 2 diabetes than people who drank just one cup per week.

Another study found that people who drank green tea consistently for a period of 10 years had smaller waist circumferences and lower body fat levels, showing that the tea may play a role in reducing obesity risk.

But tea’s benefits don’t stop at prevention. For people already diagnosed with diabetes, green tea may be able to help manage blood sugar levels.

According to a comprehensive review, green tea consumption is associated with decreased fasting glucose levels and A1C levels, as well as reduced fasting insulin levels, which are a measurement of diabetes health. While not all studies have shown these positive results, green tea has still been shown to be beneficial in other ways.

The Pacific College of Oriental Medicine suggests that the antioxidant activity of polyphenols and polysaccharides are to credit for these benefits. These same antioxidants are credited with anticancer, cholesterol lowering, and blood pressure management benefits.

If you have diabetes and want to reap the potential benefits of green tea, steer clear of additions that can cause blood glucose changes. It’s best to drink the mild-tasting tea plain, instead of diluting it with milk or sweetening it with sugar.

The 1-Hour Effects of AriZona Green Tea »

Teabags are just fine (loose leaf is best), but if you want to enjoy a fresher, green flavor, you can buy traditional matcha green tea online and in specialty shops. Matcha is a green tea powder, traditionally used in Chinese tea ceremonies. It is prepared with a small bowl and bamboo whisk, though a spoon or wire whisk can work in a pinch. Because the tea is more concentrated in a matcha powder, you may reap additional benefits over bagged green tea.

Last medically reviewed on February 29, 2016

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

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• Liu, K., Zhou, R., Wang, B., Chen, K., Shi, L., Zhu, J. D., & Mi, M. T. (2013, August). Effect of green tea on glucose control and insulin sensitivity: a meta-analysis of 17 randomized controlled trials. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 98(2), 340-8. Retrieved from
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• Nagao, T., Komine, Y., Soga, S., Meguro, S., Hase, T., Tanaka, Y., & Tokimitsu, I. (2005, January). Ingestion of a tea rich in catechins leads to a reduction in body fat and malondialdehyde-modified LDL in men. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 81(1), 122-129
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• Park, J., Bae, J., Im, S., & Song, D. (2014, March). Green tea and type 2 diabetes. Integrative Medicine Research, 3(1),4-10. Retrieved form
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• Wu, C. H., Lu, F. H., Chang, C. S., Chang, T. C., Wang, R. H., & Chang, C. J. (2003, September). Relationship among habitual tea consumption, percent body fat, and body fat distribution. Obesity Research, 11(9), 1088-1095
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Medically reviewed by Peggy Pletcher, M.S., R.D., L.D., CDE — By Anna Schaefer — Updated on August 20, 2018

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Is Green Tea Good for Type 2 Diabetes?

By now, you’ve probably heard about the wonders that green tea can do for a body. Researchers have studied this nutritional powerhouse’s potential role in boosting heart health, fighting infection, and even improving brain function, a review published in Chinese Medicine suggests. But does the beverage also have a place in a type 2 diabetes diet? Turns out, it can.

The Importance of Choosing Good Drinks for Diabetes

When you have type 2 diabetes, your body’s cells can no longer efficiently absorb blood sugar (glucose), the body’s main energy source, due to a condition called insulin resistance. Insulin resistance leads to an elevated blood glucose level (called hyperglycemia), which increases the risk for diabetes complications, including heart disease, kidney failure, and nerve damage (neuropathy).

What you choose to eat and drink can affect your blood sugar level dramatically, the Mayo Clinic points out. The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health notes that one of the main drivers behind the obesity and diabetes epidemic is added sugar — namely, the added sugar in popular sips like sports drinks, soda, and fruit juice. It’s this very aspect of your diet where green tea can be helpful in stabilizing blood sugar.

RELATED: The Best and Worst Drinks for Type 2 Diabetes

The Science-Backed Health Benefits of Green Tea for Diabetes

There’s a wealth of research on how green tea may help with weight loss and thus help people with type 2 diabetes get their blood sugar under control. It depends on the variety, but a plain cup of green tea from a steeped bag contains 0 calories, according to U.S. Department of Agriculture nutrition data. That means it’s a great alternative to sugary and caloric sodas and energy drinks.

“When you lose weight, you increase your insulin sensitivity and will have a lower blood sugar level,” says Sandra Arevalo, MPH, RDN, a certified diabetes educator based in Hilton Head, South Carolina, and spokesperson for the American Association of Diabetes Educators. A study published in the Journal of Research in Medical Sciences looked at different doses of green tea in 63 people with type 2 diabetes. Researchers found that drinking 4 cups per day was linked to weight loss and lower blood pressure.

Toby Smithson, RDN, CDE, author of Diabetes Meal Planning and Nutrition for Dummies, explains that the catechins in green tea help reduce the effects of insulin resistance by decreasing the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates. (Catechins are a type of antioxidant.) A study published in September 2014 in the Iranian Journal of Medical Sciences suggests that drinking green tea regularly — participants drank a 150-milliliter infusion three times per day for four weeks — had a positive effect on insulin resistance in people with diabetes and increased their HDL (“good”) cholesterol levels. An infusion of 3 grams (g) of tea leaves in 5 ounces of water is stronger than a regular cup of green tea (2 g of tea leaves brewed in 8 ounces of water), but Smithson, who is also based in Hilton Head, South Carolina, says it’s possible to get the same benefits listed in the study by drinking several cups of regular green tea per day. But, she points out, green tea alone is unlikely to control blood sugar and cholesterol levels — you’ll need to eat a balanced diet that’s low in added sugars, simple carbohydrates, and saturated fat and monitor your numbers regularly.

RELATED: 10 Surprising Causes of Blood Sugar Swings You Probably Didn’t Know

Drinking green tea may also decrease the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, some scientific literature suggests. Research in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that people in Japan who drank 6 or more cups of green tea per day were 33 percent less likely to develop type 2 diabetes compared with people who drank less than 1 cup per week when adjusting for confounding factors like age and body mass index.

Green tea has a powerful antioxidant called polyphenol, which may give it anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and cholesterol-lowering benefits, according to a review published in November 2014 in the Journal of Food Processing and Technology. Polyphenols come from plants and help protect our cells from damage. Green tea has a few different types that make up around 40 percent of its dry weight.

In addition, green tea may have a calming effect on the mind and body. It contains the amino acid L-theanine, which Smithson says has a calming effect. According to a study published in October 2012 in the Journal of Physiological Anthropology, L-theanine may help reduce anxiety and prevent stress-related increases in blood pressure. “Having a chronic condition like diabetes can add stress and anxiety, so drinking a cup of green tea can offer a benefit of calmness,” she adds.

How Much Green Tea Should You Drink If You Have Diabetes?

Research suggests that there aren’t negative effects to drinking green tea, as long as you’re not adding sugar, says Winonah Hoffman, RN, nursing manager at Austin Regional Clinic in Austin, Texas. When treating people with diabetes, Hoffman recommends never adding sugar to drinks; instead, she advises drinking unsweetened tea or tea with sugar alternatives, like stevia.

Stevia is a sugar substitute that comes from the leaves of the stevia plant. Hoffman likes it as an option for people with diabetes because it has less than 1 calorie and no carbs per packet. A study published in the journal Appetite suggests that of the low-calorie sweeteners commonly used by people with diabetes (including aspartame and sucrose), stevia was the only one shown to lower blood sugar and insulin levels after a meal.

RELATED: 5 Sugar Substitutes for Type 2 Diabetes

If you find green tea to be too bitter, forgo using honey or table sugar (brown or white) and instead opt for a sweetener such as stevia.

When drinking green tea, the other thing to keep in mind is caffeine, which can affect blood sugar and blood pressure. The latter is of particular concern for people with type 2 diabetes, who are 2 to 4 times as likely to die of heart disease compared with people without type 2 diabetes, according to the American Heart Association.

A good way to see how you respond to the amount of caffeine in green tea is to check your blood sugar before drinking the tea and then one to two hours afterward, says Smithson. If you’re still in your target range before and after, you haven’t hit your limit. Smithson also recommends using a home blood pressure cuff to monitor blood pressure.

The good news is that green tea has much less caffeine than coffee or black tea. According to the Mayo Clinic, there’s about 25 to 29 milligrams (mg) per 8 ounces of brewed green tea compared with 95 to 165 mg for the same amount of brewed coffee and 25 to 48 mg for brewed black tea.

But if your body is sensitive to caffeine, it could still be a problem. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to your individual reaction.

Other Teas to Try to Better Manage Type 2 Diabetes

The difference between green, oolong, and black tea is how they’re processed. Green tea is made from fresh leaves, which are steamed to prevent fermentation. The tea keeps its green color and antioxidant compounds. Oolong tea is slightly fermented, and black tea is fully fermented.

Some people prefer black or oolong teas because they’re milder in taste (green tea can be a bit more bitter), says Hoffman. Compared with green tea, black and oolong teas don’t have the same antioxidant levels and have slightly more caffeine, but that doesn’t mean they’re a bad choice.

If you are sensitive to caffeine, herbal teas can be a great substitute. They don’t contain caffeine and can be rich with flavor. On this note, Arevalo recommends cinnamon tea for people with type 2 diabetes — for both taste and possible health benefits (cinnamon is packed with antioxidants). There’s also some evidence that cinnamon might help control blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes in larger amounts.

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Drinks for diabetes | CPC

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What and how much to drink if you have diabetes

1. Coffee

Studies have shown that moderate consumption of decaffeinated coffee can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes in middle-aged and young women. However, excessive coffee consumption can increase blood sugar levels. Coffee contains the compound chlorogenic acid, which helps delay the absorption of glucose into the blood. In addition, coffee is carb- and calorie-free, making it one of the best drinks for diabetics. Thus, you should enjoy 1-2 cups of coffee a day without sugar and milk. This is because adding sugar, milk or cream to your coffee can increase your total calories and affect your blood sugar levels.

2. Milk

Milk is known to be a healthy drink for children and also for diabetics. Studies show that eating low-fat dairy products reduces the incidence and mortality of diabetes. Milk promotes weight loss in people with type 2 diabetes and supports basic bodily functions. Skimmed and non-fat milk is considered one of the healthiest drinks for diabetes and helps lower high blood pressure. Thus, you should take 2-3 servings of dairy products on a regular basis.

3. Green tea

One of the best healthy drinks for diabetics is green tea because it has no carbohydrates and no calories. Thus, diabetic patients can drink unlimited amounts of green tea. According to a study, green tea may reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and blood pressure. Green tea is rich in antioxidants that help neutralize inflammatory effects and protect against coronary heart disease. In addition, tea – both black and green – comes with polysaccharides that help slow down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream. It is recommended to drink 4-5 cups of green tea a day to reduce the risk of developing diabetes and control diabetes. You should avoid sweeteners whether you choose black, green or herbal teas.

4. Water

Water is one of the best drinks for diabetics because it does not raise blood sugar levels. High blood sugar can cause dehydration. Drinking enough water can help the body remove excess glucose through the urine. Men should consume about 10 glasses of water a day, and women about 8 glasses. If plain water doesn’t work for you, you can create some variety by adding sprigs of aromatic herbs such as basil, mint, adding lime, lemon or orange slices, or crushing a few frozen or fresh raspberries into a drink.

5. Bitter gourd juice

Bitter gourd is an effective medicine for people suffering from anemia and diabetes. According to a study, bitter gourd juice has a beneficial effect on glucose tolerance. In addition, it contains a hypoglycemic substance, so it helps to reduce the level of sugar in the urine and in the blood. To prepare this juice, you first need to wash the bitter gourd and then peel its upper skin. Then cut it into small pieces, sprinkle with salt and rub with turmeric. Let it stand for a few minutes and extract the juice. Mix all parts in a mixer properly. Add some fresh lemon juice for flavor and tangy aroma.

6. Cucumber juice

Cucumber is enriched with calcium, iron, phosphorus, amino acids, aromatic substances, vitamins A, C, B ₁ and B ₂ , which effectively improves human health. In addition, it has powerful effects that can eliminate inflammation, treat arthritis, and as a diuretic reduce swelling. Cucumber pulp extract has been shown to help lower blood sugar levels, according to research. Therefore, diabetic patients should drink cucumber juice frequently to provide the body with essential nutrients.

7. Chamomile tea

Chamomile tea is rich in antioxidants and contains no calories, making it one of the best drinks for diabetics. According to a recent study, chamomile tea has some positive effects on glycemic control and serum lipid profile in patients with type 2 diabetes. According to another study, regular consumption of chamomile tea can help lower blood sugar levels and prevent complications such as nerve and circulatory damage, blindness, and kidney disease. In addition, chamomile contains antimicrobial and antioxidant agents that help reduce inflammation and reduce the risk of high cholesterol and cancer.

8. Apple Cider Vinegar

This great blend helps control blood sugar levels. It also helps improve insulin sensitivity and suppress complex post-meal sugar activity. In addition, it helps in weight loss and metabolism. According to a study conducted by scientists from Arizona State University, taking 20 g of apple cider vinegar diluted in 40 g of water with 1 tsp. saccharin, may lower blood sugar levels after meals. You can drink a mixture of apple cider vinegar with lime, cinnamon and lemon for a better taste.

Drinks to Avoid with Diabetes

Patients with diabetes should avoid some certain drinks, such as soda, sugary soft drinks, energy drinks, and fruit juices, because these drinks are full of hundreds of calories and high in sugar.

1. Energy drinks

Energy drinks often contain high levels of caffeine, carbohydrates and refined sugar, making them harmful to diabetics. In addition, energy drinks are high in carbohydrates and caffeine. According to a study, energy drinks cause insulin resistance and increase blood sugar levels. This may increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. In addition, too much caffeine can lead to insomnia, nervousness, and high blood pressure. Therefore, diabetic patients should avoid energy drinks.

2. Diet soda

Generally, diet soda contains artificial sweeteners that can attack bacteria in the gut. As a result, insulin resistance may increase, which can lead to or worsen diabetes. A study found that consumption of diet soda increased the risk of metabolic syndrome. Basically, this syndrome refers to various conditions such as high blood pressure, high triglycerides, high cholesterol, high blood sugar, and weight gain.

3. Alcoholic beverages

Studies have shown that excessive alcohol consumption has increased the risk of type 2 diabetes in men. While moderate alcohol consumption has a beneficial effect on blood sugar levels. Beer and sweet wines are rich in sugar, which adds glucose to your bloodstream. You should consult your doctor to determine which alcoholic beverages are safe for you.

4. Fruit juices

Although fruit juice is full of healthy vitamins, it is not a healthy drink for diabetics, as even 100% fruit juice contains fruit sugar, which causes a sudden increase in blood glucose levels, which is bad for diabetic patients. Therefore, it is better to consume whole fruits, which contain healthy carbohydrates rich in fiber. Drink juice that is sugar-free and 100% pure.

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The doctor named six types of tea that are good for diabetics to drink – Gazeta.Ru

The doctor named six types of tea that are useful for diabetics to drink – Gazeta.Ru | News

August 05, 2022, 21:40

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Some types of tea, when used correctly, have a positive effect on the condition of patients with diabetes. Olga Kashlyak, a pediatrician and expert at the Dia Talks project lecture hall for diabetics, spoke about this in an interview with Gazeta.Ru.

The expert named six types of drink that people who have problems with high blood sugar should drink. The first drink on the list is green tea. Kashlyak noted that there are studies that say that green tea slightly, but lowers the current blood sugar level, and also reduces the likelihood of developing this disease.

“Please note that all studies show the average amount of tea required to observe beneficial effects is 3-4 tea cups,” the specialist emphasized.

Beneficial for diabetics and Hibiscus tea (hibiscus petals). The main effect of its use is a decrease in blood pressure. The doctor recalled that high blood pressure is often found in people with diabetes. 240 milliliters of tea twice a day for a month helps to significantly reduce systolic blood pressure.

“Hibiscus helps reduce insulin resistance. But note that this tea can interact with hydrochlorothiazide, a diuretic prescribed for patients with high blood pressure, ”the specialist warned.

Lemon balm tea and chamomile tea should also be included in the diet for those who are worried about their health. The first, due to the essential oils of lemon balm, stimulates the absorption of glucose and inhibits the synthesis of glucose, which leads to a decrease in blood sugar levels . The second one optimizes blood sugar control and also protects against oxidative stress, an imbalance that can lead to complications associated with diabetes.

Cinnamon tea is great for diabetic patients – the spice in the drink slows down the release of sugar into the bloodstream and enhances the absorption of glucose by cells, increasing sensitivity to insulin.

In conclusion, Kashlyak advised me to try turmeric tea. A 2020 study found that curcumin intake was associated with significant reductions in blood sugar and lipid levels.