Caffeine is a substance that is found naturally in certain plants, and it can be made artificially. It works by stimulating the central nervous system and providing a burst of energy and alertness. It can be found in coffee, tea, sports or energy drinks, and it is also in some foods. When used in moderation, it usually has no serious adverse effects in healthy individuals. However, those with chronic medical conditions should talk to a doctor about its safety. Along with many other changes in the body, caffeine can have an effect on blood sugar levels, which is a concern for those with or at risk of diabetes.
Less Sensitivity to Insulin in Diabetics
Caffeine can hinder the body's ability to use insulin properly, though this is usually not a concern in health individuals, states the Mayo Clinic. Those with type 2 diabetes may need to be more careful. If the body can not use the insulin properly, then blood sugar levels may rise after ingesting caffeine, which can make controlling diabetes more challenging. This effect is more noticeable if caffeine is consumed after meals.
Since each case is different, it will be necessary to test blood sugar levels when consuming caffeine to determine how much is safe and what amount raises blood glucose levels too high.
Raises Blood Sugar Levels
Even those without diabetes can be affected by ingesting caffeine. Since caffeine interferes with the ability to use insulin properly, meals may take longer to digest leaving glucose in the bloodstream longer. According to a study in 2008 by the American Society for Nutrition, healthy men who consumed 5 mg caffeine per kg of body weight experienced a temporary spike in blood glucose levels. The spikes in blood sugar were higher in those who consumed a meal considered to have a high glycemic index after drinking the caffeine. However, even eating low glycemic index foods caused blood sugar levels to go up. More studies are needed to determine if ingesting caffeine regularly raises the risk of developing diabetes in healthy individuals.
Prevents Exercise Induced Hypoglycemia
While in most circumstances caffeine should be used in moderation to prevent spikes in blood sugar, its effect on the body may be helpful in certain situations. Exercise can make blood sugar levels drop dangerously low. However, the American Diabetes Association, suggests that type one diabetics who take 5 mg of caffeine per kg of body weight half an hour before exercising may be able to prevent hypoglycemia or low blood sugar. Caffeine stimulates the production of adrenaline, which in turn causes glucose to say in the bloodstream longer. At this stage much more research is needed to fully determine the benefits of caffeine before exercise.
