Green Tea
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) states that a cup of green tea contains 0 carbohydrates, 0g of sugar or fat, and only 2.4 calories. Therefore, it is a healthy choice for individuals, including those with diabetes.
Green tea and its extract can help reduce blood sugar levels and may play a role in preventing type 2 diabetes and obesity.
Regular green tea drinkers for over 10 years had lower body fat and smaller waistlines compared to non-drinkers. Obesity can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by at least 6 times.
The reason green tea can prevent diabetes is because it contains a compound called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). This compound has been shown to increase the absorption of glucose into muscle cells. The process where EGCG stimulates glucose uptake into muscle cells can also be beneficial in treating obesity.
Chamomile Tea
The U.S. CDC states that even one restless night of sleep can result in the body producing insulin less efficiently, potentially causing an increase in blood sugar levels. Diabetes is considered an inflammatory condition. Proper food intake and good quality sleep are important in reducing inflammation.
Chamomile tea is caffeine-free and can support better sleep. Furthermore, chamomile tea is associated with improved insulin sensitivity and glucose control, helping to reduce oxidative stress in the body.
A study published in 2018 concluded that individuals with type 2 diabetes who consumed chamomile tea three times a day (after meals) for 8 weeks experienced improved insulin resistance and reduced signs of inflammation.
Ginger Tea
People with diabetes should consider adding ginger tea to their dietary regimen. Supplementing with ginger can help reduce fasting blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes as well as A1C levels.
Individuals with diabetes (not using insulin) who supplemented with ginger for 3 months experienced significant improvements in blood sugar control compared to the control group.
By inhibiting enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism and increasing insulin sensitivity, ginger can impact blood sugar control.
Cinnamon Tea
Cinnamon is an excellent supportive supplement commonly used in concentrated form to reduce blood sugar levels. Research also shows that using cinnamon as a tea has a similar effect. Cinnamon tea helps improve glucose absorption in cells, increase insulin sensitivity, and reduce blood sugar levels.
Cinnamon tea has a direct impact on digestive enzymes, slowing down the breakdown of carbohydrates in the digestive system. The antioxidant properties in cinnamon tea help the body reduce oxidative stress, a factor related to the development of type 2 diabetes.
Research shows that adding cinnamon to the diet of individuals with diabetes can help reduce blood sugar and total cholesterol levels. It also assists in reducing risk factors of diabetes and cardiovascular issues.
One can consume 2.5g of cinnamon tea or 2 teaspoons of cinnamon powder daily. The best time to consume cinnamon tea is in the morning.
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