Can green tea help manage blood sugar levels?

Diabetes is a chronic disease in which glucose or blood sugar levels are too high. In diabetics, the pancreas does not produce insulin, which is responsible for regulating blood sugar levels. Diabetes can not be completely cured; Therefore, it's important to manage it well, whether it's eating healthy, exercising, or living a healthy lifestyle. Most health experts suggest foods and beverages that help manage blood sugar. One of them is green tea. Green tea provides a number of health benefits and is believed to reduce the risk of developing diabetes and the complications associated with it. In addition, it can also facilitate the control of blood glucose. Although research is still in the early stages, green tea is known to have a potential effect of lowering blood sugar levels.

Green tea for diabetes

According to a study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, drinking green tea containing caffeine may help reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes. Study participants who ate at least six cups of green tea a day were 33% less likely to have type 2 diabetes than participants who drank one cup a day. Also, once a person has diabetes; it may be better to drink less green tea, according to the study published in BioFactors.

(READ ALSO: What is the best time to drink green tea?)

Here's why green tea can be good for diabetics

1. Green tea has long been known for weight loss and helps people with type 2 diabetes to control their blood sugar levels. The zero calorie drink is a drink that you can admire.
2. Catechins (antioxidants) found in green tea help reduce the effects of insulin resistance by decreasing digestion and the absorption of carbohydrates.
3. Green tea also has a powerful antioxidant called polyphenol that can have anti-inflammatory properties. Polyphenols come from plants and help protect our cells from damage.
4. Chronic conditions like diabetes can add stress and anxiety, so a cup of green tea can help manage the problem. It can have a calming effect on the mind and body as it contains the amino acid L-Theanine, which is believed to reduce anxiety and stress.

How much green tea should you drink to control diabetes?

Any excess is bad, so moderation is the key. Excess caffeine in green tea can have a negative impact on your blood pressure and blood sugar levels. It is best to always consult a doctor who will know how much green tea you need to drink and how it can help your body.

(Also read: Side Effects of Green Tea: From Caffeine Overdose to Dehydration)

Disclaimer: This content, including tips, provides only generic information. It does not replace in any case a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim any responsibility for this information.