Diabetes is a condition of the endocrine system that causes high levels of glucose in the bloodstream. If you have it, you likely monitor what you ingest daily. That is because diabetes is controlled through dietary changes as well as exercise, oral medications and insulin injections. Like most people, diabetics enjoy the occasional cup of coffee, but it is important to know the ways coffee can affect blood sugar levels before partaking.
Diabetes
More than 25 million Americans have some form of diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form and occurs when you cannot produce enough insulin to transport sugar from the bloodstream into your cells. Insulin is essential for changing starches and sugars into energy. Latinos, African-Americans, Native Americans and Native Hawaiians have a higher risk of developing diabetes but anyone can develop the disease. People with diabetes are at a higher risk for heart disease, stroke, kidney failure and blindness. See your doctor if you experience excessive thirst, hunger, blurred vision or frequent urination, which may indicate diabetes.
Coffee
Coffee is made from brewing the roasted seeds of the coffee plant, commonly called coffee beans. Sold in a variety of flavors, there are two main bean species --- Arabica and Robusta. Arabica comprises 70 percent of the world's coffee production and produces a smooth flavor. Robusta produces a robust flavor and contains up to 60 percent more caffeine, according to the National Coffee Association. Caffeine is the central nervous system stimulant found in coffee, tea and chocolate. Caffeine can cause elevated blood sugar levels in some diabetics, so closely monitor your blood sugar after drinking caffeinated beverages.
Benefits
Scientists have studied the effects of coffee for years, but new research shows that coffee may be beneficial for some conditions. In fact, raw coffee beans contain up to 1,000 antioxidants and brewing adds 300 more antioxidants. In addition, UCLA researchers discovered a protein specific to coffee called SHBG that may actually offer protection against developing diabetes. The studies conducted in 2010 revealed that women who drank 3 to 4 cups of coffee daily were half as likely to develop diabetes compared to non-coffee drinkers, possibly because SHBG interferes with hormones that contribute to diabetes. Research on coffee consumption was still ongoing at the time of publication, but results look promising for diabetics who enjoy a moderate amount of the brew.
Warnings
Although new research shows coffee may protect against diabetes, you must still exercise caution. Diabetes is a complicated disease, and the compounds in coffee can affect people differently. Most regular, decaffeinated and flavored coffees are safe, low-calorie choices for diabetics when consumed in moderation, according to Cassie Rico, a registered dietitian with the American Diabetes Association. However, adding sugary syrups and flavorings can pack on sugar, fat and carbohydrates, resulting in blood sugar spikes. Ask your doctor or diabetes specialist what amount of coffee is safe for your condition.
References
- American Diabetes Association: Diabetes Statistics
- American Diabetes Association: Type 2
- National Coffee Association of U.S.A., Inc.: What is Coffee?
- CoffeeScience: Drink to Your Health---Coffee as Health Food?
- UC Health: Why Coffee Protects Against Diabetes
- American Diabetes Association: Ask the Registered Dietician Archives
