The Effects Of Caffeine On Weight Loss In Diabetics

The relationship between caffeine, diabetes and weight loss is complex. While caffeine may have beneficial effects on fat use inside the body that lead to weight loss, it may not always be suitable for diabetics. Caffeine interferes with the way your body responds to blood glucose. If you are a diabetic, before embarking on a weight-loss program, especially one centered around caffeine use, always consult first with your doctor.

Caffeine and Diabetes

Dietary caffeine may not be the best choice for a person with diabetes, according to a study conducted by the Duke University Medical Center and published in the February 2008 issue of "Diabetes Care." Participants of the study were diabetics who drank at least 2 cups of coffee daily and were managing diabetes through diet and exercise, no medications. For a 72-hour period, these participants engaged in daily living with a small glucose monitor embedded just under their skin, giving researchers the ability to get a real-time look at glucose levels throughout the day. Researchers gave the participants one caffeine capsule totaling the equivalent of 4 cups of coffee for one day, then a placebo for the next two days. On the day the participants took the caffeine pill, their average blood sugar levels increased by 8 percent. This shows that caffeine may interrupt the body's ability to clear blood glucose.

Caffeine, Diabetes and Weight Loss

Clearly, a diabetic's body and glucose levels do not respond in a favorable way. A high blood glucose level caused by caffeine initiates your body to release insulin into the bloodstream. High insulin levels stimulate fat and carbohydrate storage. This hormonal response is counterproductive to weight loss.

Other Negative Side Effects

Caffeine can also promote a side effect known as the pressor effect. This is the increase in both heart rate and blood pressure that comes after ingesting caffeine. This effect can increase the risk of cardiovascular related events. This is significant for people with diabetes because diabetes already increases your risk for heart disease and related cardiovascular events.

Considerations

According to a study published in the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition" in October 2006, there may be some benefits to caffeine for weight loss. Caffeine may induce a feeling of satiety, making it easier to reduce your caloric consumption. However, further evidence suggests that caffeine does not promote favorable effects on metabolism in diabetics and may even increase your risk for a heart attack. You may be wise to skip the caffeine if you are a diabetic. The best route for managing diabetes and losing weight is to follow a healthy eating plan and to get regular exercise. To understand the best course of action for you and before starting a diet or exercise program, consult with your physician.