Green tea and coffee may help protect against complications of diabetes.

The advantages of tea and coffee for individuals, especially those with diabetes, have been acknowledged. Recent research from Japan has uncovered life-saving benefits associated with both beverages. So, grab a cup of tea or coffee and explore these fascinating discoveries.

Scientists have long observed that people who regularly consume tea and coffee have a reduced risk of mortality from cardiovascular diseases and other causes.¹

The presence of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in both tea and coffee is believed to contribute to these health benefits.

Coffee and Tea: Rich in Disease-Fighting Properties

Green tea is recognized for its catechin content, which combats cell damage that can lead to cancer. Conversely, coffee contains chlorogenic acids, another antioxidant associated with improved fat metabolism and decreased cholesterol levels.²

Past research indicates that these compounds may also improve glucose control and insulin sensitivity.

Researchers from Kyushu University, Fukuoka Dental College, and Hakujyuji Hospital in Japan conducted a comprehensive five-year observational study to investigate the impact of coffee and green tea on the mortality risk of individuals with diabetes.

Researchers Examined Nearly 5,000 Diabetic Patients

They carried out a large-scale observational study over five years, monitoring the well-being of nearly 5,000 individuals in Japan diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes.

Participants completed surveys focusing on their lifestyle, dietary patterns, and daily consumption of green tea and coffee.

The study found that individuals with Type 2 diabetes who consumed more than one cup of green tea or coffee daily had a lower likelihood of dying from any cause compared to non-consumers of these beverages.

"Increased consumption of green tea and coffee was significantly associated with reduced all-cause mortality in individuals with type 2 diabetes," the researchers noted.

The individuals who lived the longest with diabetes were those who consumed significant quantities of these beverages.

Coffee or Tea? Researchers Suggest Both!

Among those who exclusively consumed coffee, drinking two or more cups daily was linked to a 41% lower risk of mortality. Coffee also provides various other health benefits. 

On the other hand, individuals who drank four or more cups of green tea daily experienced a 40% lower risk of mortality. (Green tea has lower caffeine content than coffee, allowing tea drinkers to consume more without feeling overly stimulated.)

The most intriguing results were observed in individuals who consumed both beverages daily, with even greater health benefits!

• Two to three cups of green tea plus two or more cups of coffee — 51% lower mortality risk
• Four or more cups of green tea plus one cup of coffee — 58% lower mortality risk
• Four or more cups of green tea and two or more cups of coffee — 63% lower mortality risk

While not everyone may be able to tolerate consuming such amounts, some individuals may find it suitable. It's important to remember that the effects of these beverages can last up to 12 hours.

Let's continue in the scientific vein.

Limitations of Observational Studies

This study is based on self-reported data regarding tea and coffee consumption, making it an observational study. While generally reliable, individuals may not always accurately recall their habits.

Moreover, as the study focused on the Japanese population, its findings may not directly apply to individuals in the U.S. It's worth noting that tea consumption is higher in many Asian cultures compared to the U.S.

Dr. Minisha Sood, an endocrinologist at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City, highlighted that the study participants were generally non-obese individuals with controlled blood pressure, which could influence the interpretation of the results.³

Nonetheless, consuming coffee or green tea may still be beneficial for individuals with other health conditions. Previous research suggests that green tea, in particular, could be advantageous.

If you have elevated blood sugar levels, consider incorporating coffee and green tea into a diet rich in fresh vegetables and lean protein while minimizing processed foods.

To delve deeper into the findings of the Japanese study, refer to the research published in the British Medical Journal Open Diabetes Research & Care.⁴