Sipping a cup of coffee every morning upon waking up is a habit for many Vietnamese people. However, in reality, this beverage isn’t really suitable for everyone. For people with diabetes, whether or not drinking coffee lowers blood sugar is a very common question.
1. Does drinking coffee lower blood sugar?
According to research conducted by scientists at Duke University Medical Center, coffee consumption can increase average daily blood sugar levels by 8% and also contribute to increased blood sugar blood glucose after meals. Specifically, the study indicates that the increase in blood glucose levels after breakfast, lunch, and dinner is due to…coffee caused at rates of 9%, 15%, and 26%, respectively.
Regarding the main cause of this phenomenon, experts believe that coffee counteracts the blood sugar-lowering effects of insulin, preventing sugar from entering cells and causing it to accumulate in the blood, leading to hyperglycemia. In addition, coffee consumption increases the release of adrenaline – a substance known to raise blood sugar – causing tremors, palpitations, and increased blood pressure.
2. Should people with diabetes drink coffee?
So, for those wondering if drinking coffee has any side effects…hyperglycemiaNo, it can be seen that this drink can only cause a drop in blood sugar levels for the user.
Another study published in the journal Diabetes Care also concluded that “Quitting coffee is the best way for users to…”blood sugar controlFor patientsType 2 diabetesIf you enjoy drinking coffee, this might not be good news at all.
For the average person, the American Heart Association recommends that the optimal daily intake of sugar (refined sugar, cane sugar, etc.) is approximately 36 grams (9 teaspoons, each teaspoon equivalent to 4 grams) for men and about 25 grams (6 teaspoons) for women. People with diabetes can consume coffee, but it is best to use less coffee and sugar than the above recommended amounts.
3. Suggested coffee alternatives for people with diabetes
According to doctors, instead of coffee, people with diabetes can use low-sugar or sugar-free drinks that are still delicious and refreshing, such as:
- Green tea: Use watergreen teaFreshly made fruit contains no calories and is rich in antioxidants such as polyphenols, which have anti-cancer and antibacterial properties. Therefore, diabetic patients should drink it regularly every day. However, please note that children should not drink too much or drink it before meals, as this can dilute gastric juices and eventually lead to gastritis.
- Lemonade: On hot summer days,lemonade. This is one of the effective cooling remedies for people with diabetes. However, when consuming it, you should mix lemon juice with 1-2 teaspoons of sugar or 1-2 teaspoons of diet sugar, combined with a little lemongrass, ginger, or a few mint leaves.
- Milk: You should choose unsweetened, low-fat, or fat-free milk for best results. Also, since 100 grams of milk contains approximately 50kcal, patients should only drink about 200ml per day. However, in cases where patients are unable to eat or drink, you can supplement with more milk to ensure they have enough energy for daily activities.
- Plant-based milk: Suitable for people with diabetes nut milk. Instead of cow’s milk, especially for vegetarians or those with lactose intolerance, start your morning with a delicious glass of almond milk, soy milk, peanut milk, etc. This will provide essential nutrients without affecting blood sugar levels.
The above information answers the question of whether drinking coffee lowers blood sugar. Basically, diabetic patients need to be cautious when consuming coffee to ensure the best possible health.