Drink properly to optimize benefits
For many people, the new day starts with a cup of coffee. Not only does coffee help stay awake, it is also said to be beneficial for blood sugar metabolism. A large-scale study published in 2013 showed that people who added more than one cup of coffee per day for four years could reduce their risk of type 2 diabetes by 11%. Conversely, the group that reduced their consumption increased their risk of the disease by 17%.
According to nutritionist Avni Kaul, coffee contains many biologically active compounds such as polyphenols, antioxidants that help reduce oxidative stress and chronic inflammation, two factors closely related to diabetes and cardiovascular disease. In addition, coffee also provides a small amount of magnesium and chromium, which support glucose metabolism. However, she emphasized that coffee cannot replace a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.
Agreeing with this view, Professor Frank Hu, a nutrition epidemiologist at Harvard School of Public Health at Harvard University, USA, said that current evidence supports the link between regular coffee consumption and a lower risk of type 2 diabetes. However, he noted that the benefits are only obvious when coffee is drunk purely, without sugar, syrup or fatty cream.
Time and type of coffee that makes a difference
Black coffee usually does not cause sudden spikes in blood sugar immediately. However, caffeine can temporarily reduce insulin sensitivity, making the body use glucose less effectively, especially in people already sick. In return, chlorogenic acid in coffee can support glucose metabolism and partially neutralize the effects of caffeine.
A study published in the Colombian Journal of Medicine shows that drinking caffeine before exercise can limit increased blood sugar during exercise. This suggests that a cup of black coffee before exercise can help better control blood sugar.
For those who are concerned about the effects of caffeine on blood pressure or insulin sensitivity, non-caffeine coffee is a worthwhile choice. This type still retains beneficial antioxidants while reducing the risk of cardiovascular irritation.
Experts agree: coffee can contribute to reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes, but the key lies in the way of drinking, pure, moderate and suitable for each person's physical condition.
