Is Black Tea Good for Diabetes?
Diabetes is a serious chronic health condition that impacts the way our body processes sugars. Those with diabetes must take special care of their diet and exercise regimens to manage their health. It’s important to regulate what foods and beverages you consume, including tea. So, is black tea good for diabetes?
Link Between Blood Sugar and Black Tea
Black tea is known to benefit people with diabetes, as the tea helps to lower your blood sugar levels. A study published in PLoS Medicine found that drinking three cups of tea per day was associated with a 17 percent lower risk of diabetes, compared to those who drank no tea at all.
Health Benefits of Black Tea for Diabetes
Because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, black tea is thought to help reduce the risk of complications associated with diabetes. The antioxidants help reduce oxidative stress, which can damage the body and raise blood sugar levels.
Black tea also helps reduce blood sugar levels, making it a good choice for diabetics to manage their condition. A study from the Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that black tea extract significantly reduced the fasting plasma glucose levels of participants.
Precautions for Diabetics Drinking Black Tea
However, drinking black tea shouldn’t replace any prescribed medications or lifestyle changes recommended by your doctor. It’s important to keep your doctor in the loop on any changes to your health regimen.
In addition, watch out for added sugars to your tea. Some black teas contain sugar, which could raise your blood sugar levels. Make sure to check the label for any added sugars and to opt for more natural sweetener alternatives, such as honey or agave.
Conclusion
Overall, black tea can help reduce blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of complications associated with diabetes. However, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider if you’re on any medication or making any lifestyle changes, and to be aware of any added sugars when purchasing teas to enjoy.
