The pancreas is deep within the abdomen and responsible for many essential digestive functions, including producing insulin, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine. Because of its location, many people suffering from pancreatic cancer or other disorders of the pancreas fail to learn about the problem until it becomes advanced. People with pancreatic problems, such as cancer, diabetes or pancreatitis, should avoid drinking coffee because it might over-stimulate the pancreas. (References 1, 2, and 5)
Coffee and Healthy Pancreas
Some older studies claim that drinking coffee can help you prevent pancreatic cancer, but newer studies do not back up such claims, according to the American Cancer Society. However, recent studies show that drinking three to four cups of regular or decaf coffee daily may prevent some people from developing type 2 diabetes, according to Dr. Rachel Huxley of the George Institute for International Health in Sydney, Australia. People who drink more coffee may be even less likely to suffer from diabetes, according to the study.
Diabetes
Diabetes happens when the pancreas produces too little blood sugar or the body resists the blood sugar created in the pancreas, according to PubMed Health. Type 1 diabetes usually happens in childhood, while type 2 diabetes typically develops later in life, especially among people who are obese or do not get enough exercise. If you are diabetic, try to avoid drinking caffeinated coffee because it can make it much harder to regulate your blood sugar levels, according to a study led by Duke University researcher James D. Lane, Ph.D.
Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer usually happens to men over the age of 45, though in some cases younger people and women can develop the illness, according to the American Cancer Society. Avoiding tobacco smoking is one of the best ways to help prevent pancreatic cancer. People with the disease must carefully watch their diets as well as their intake of coffee, alcohol and tobacco.
Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas that usually causes significant pain, malnutrition and in some cases diabetes, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. If you drink a lot of alcohol, have a family history of pancreatic problems, recently had surgery or have gallstones you might develop pancreatitis. You should avoid coffee, caffeinated beverages, alcohol and tobacco use if you have suffered from pancreatitis.
References
- American Cancer Society; Pancreatic Cancer; June 2011
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Pancreatitis; August 2008
- CBS News; Diabetes Sufferers: Beware of Caffeine; February 2009
- PubMed Health; Diabetes; May 2010
- John Hopkins Medicine; The Pancreas; June 2011
- ABC News; Tea. Coffee May Protect Against Diabetes; December 2009
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