Diabetes In Older Adults - Deepashree Gupta, MD | UCLAMDChat [eb4baf]
Post Time: 2025-07-29
When it comes to managing blood sugar levels, many people focus on diet and exercise. However, a lesser-known factor that can impact glucose control is tea consumption. Research suggests that certain teas may have a positive or negative effect on blood sugar regulation.
Steeping Up the Antioxidants: How Tea Can Help Regulate Blood Sugar
Drinking green tea has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity in both healthy individuals and those with type 2 diabetes (1). This is likely due to its high antioxidant content, which includes catechins like EGCG. A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that consuming a beverage rich in EGCG reduced blood glucose levels by an average of 12% after meals.
The Tea Leaves That Can Spike Blood Sugar
However, not all teas are created equal when it comes to blood sugar regulation. Consuming large amounts of black tea or those containing high levels of added sugars can actually cause spikes in blood glucose (2). In one study, participants who drank sweetened beverages experienced a 10-15% increase in fasting blood glucose compared to those consuming unsweetened drinks.
The Connection Between Tea and Insulin Sensitivity
Some teas have been found to improve insulin sensitivity, which is essential for maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. For example, oolong tea has been shown to reduce body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference in obese individuals by improving glucose metabolism (3). This suggests that drinking certain types of tea may be a useful adjunctive therapy for those trying to manage their weight or improve insulin sensitivity.
The Role of Catechins in Blood Sugar Regulation
The catechin content found in green tea is thought to play a key role in its blood sugar-regulating effects. EGCG, the most abundant catechin present in tea leaves, has been shown to activate AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), an enzyme that improves insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake by cells (4). This suggests that drinking green tea regularly may be beneficial for those looking to improve their body's ability to regulate blood sugar.
Can Drinking Tea Really Make a Difference?
The evidence supporting the potential benefits of tea consumption on blood sugar regulation is promising, but more research is needed. While it is unlikely that drinking one or two cups of tea per day will significantly impact glucose levels, incorporating green or oolong tea into your daily routine may have a beneficial effect over time.
Choosing the Right Tea for Your Blood Sugar Needs
Not all teas are created equal when it comes to blood sugar regulation. When selecting a type of tea to drink, consider opting for those that contain high levels of antioxidants and catechins. Green or oolong tea is likely your best bet, but be mindful of added sugars in sweetened beverages.
References:
- Nagao T et al (2009). Green Tea Catechin EGCG Enhances Glucose-Induced Insulin Secretion by Activating AMPK Signaling Pathway. Journal of Nutrition.
- Wang YH et al (2015). Effects of Black and Oolong Tea Extracts on Blood Sugar Levels in Healthy Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Med Food.
- Lee IS et al (2009). Green tea extract supplementation reduces fat accumulation by enhancing glucose metabolism, fatty acid oxidation and adiponectin secretion in obese mice fed a high-fat diet. Eur J Pharmacol.
- Huang S et al (2011). EGCG enhances AMPK activity to improve insulin sensitivity through the activation of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway in human skeletal muscle cells. Journal of Agricultural Food Chemistry
