Diabetes mellitus (most commonly known simply as diabetes) is a chronic condition that affects millions of people every year. Whether you suffer from type 1 or type 2 diabetes, it’s important to manage your condition effectively. Proper management of your condition reduces the risk of your symptoms worsening or developing further health issues.
Coffee for diabetics is a controversial topic, and many people with diabetes are unsure whether they can drink it or what types of coffee they should choose when they consume it.
You may be relieved to hear that you can absolutely drink coffee as someone with diabetes. You can enjoy your morning pick-me-up or relax with a hot drink at lunchtime, even if you have diabetes!
However, there are some important factors that you need to consider when you drink coffee as someone with diabetes. We’ve covered some of these factors below so you can make informed decisions when drinking coffee.
Type of Coffee
As a diabetic, it’s always best to choose black coffee over a sweetened cappuccino or latte. The latter tend to be packed full of sugar, which can make it harder for your body to maintain an optimal blood glucose concentration and a healthy blood pressure.
Sweetened coffees, such as those with a lot of milk, added sugar, or flavoured syrups are also higher in calories and fats than non-sweetened alternatives like regular coffee with a splash of milk or without any milk at all. An increase in calories could contribute to unwanted weight gain and worsen the symptoms of diabetes.
The Caffeine Content Of Your Coffee
Ideally, the coffee you choose as a diabetic should be relatively low in caffeine. You’ll need to monitor your body’s sensitivity and response to caffeinated coffee, as caffeine can affect insulin sensitivity and disrupt your body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels.
Consider switching exclusively to decaffeinated coffee if you find that your body reacts strongly to caffeinated options or find that it wreaks havoc on your blood glucose. Alternatively, try reducing your overall caffeine consumption by swapping one or two of your daily coffees to decaf.
Your Current Medications
If you take regular medications, whether for your diabetes or another health condition, you will need to keep this in mind when drinking coffee. Some medications may interact with the caffeine in coffee and become more or less potent.
If you’re unsure whether your medications are safe to take with coffee, speak to your doctor for expert advice. They can discuss your options and determine whether you need a change in your regular medications.
If you take medications to manage diabetes, be aware of any potential interactions with coffee. Some medications may be affected by caffeine, impacting their effectiveness or causing side effects. Consult your healthcare provider to discuss any concerns and determine the best approach for your specific situation.
