One of the key organs in digestion is the pancreas, which is responsible for producing insulin and helping the body digest fats. Because the pancreas is located deep within the abdomen, you may not realize you have problems such as cancer or pancreatitis until the condition has advanced, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. If you have any pancreatic problem, you should limit or avoid caffeine because the stimulant can worsen your symptoms. (References 1 and 2)
Caffeine and the Healthy Pancreas
Some studies dating back to the 1980s claim that caffeinated beverages such as coffee can prevent pancreatic cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. While these claims are generally not accepted in modern medicine, a recent study claims that people who drink several cups of caffeinated coffee or tea daily are less likely to develop type 2 diabetes. The more caffeine people drink, the better their chances of avoiding diabetes, according to Dr. Rachel Huxley of the George Institute for International Health in Sydney, Australia.
Diabetes
Diabetes is a potentially serious disorder of the pancreas which usually results from the organ not producing enough insulin, according to PubMed Health. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of the illness, especially among people who do not exercise regularly or are significantly overweight. Type 1 diabetes usually occurs in adolescence. Diabetics should consider drinking very little or no caffeine, because the stimulant can wreak havoc on blood sugar levels, according to a study led by Duke University researcher James D. Lane, Ph.D.
Pancreatic Cancer
African-American men over 45 who use tobacco are most likely to develop pancreatic cancer, warns the American Cancer Society. However, anyone who uses tobacco, including women and young people is at heightened risk of developing pancreatic cancer. People with this cancer should avoid or limit caffeine, tobacco, alcohol and watch their eating habits.
Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is a potentially serious inflammation of the pancreas that often requires intravenous fluids, painkillers and antibiotics, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Some people may suffer from a few acute attacks, while others experience chronic pancreatic attacks. Anyone with pancreatitis should avoid caffeine, as the drug may over-stimulate the pancreas. Pancreatitis patients should also eat low-fat diets, consume plenty of vegetables and fruits, avoid alcohol and tobacco and exercise for 30 minutes a day, five days per week.
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
- MayoClinic.com; Caffeine and Blood Sugar; February 2010
- ABC News; Tea, Coffee May Protect Against Diabetes; December 2009
Member Comments