Green tea and diabetes

Green tea and diabetes =============== **Green tea and diabetes:** Diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases of the current century, which is associated with blood sugar regulation disorders and can lead to serious complications such as heart, kidney, nerve and vision diseases if not controlled. While pharmaceutical methods play an important role in the management of this disease, it is also important to pay attention to lifestyle modification, proper nutrition, and the use of natural treatments. In the meantime, green tea, as one of the popular and characteristic drinks, has been noticed by researchers and nutritionists. Green tea is rich in bioactive compounds such as catechins, antioxidants and polyphenols, which have anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and metabolic regulating effects. Numerous scientific researches have shown that this drink can play an effective role in controlling blood sugar, improving insulin sensitivity and even preventing type 2 diabetes. On the other hand, conscious and regular consumption of green tea not only helps diabetics manage their disease, but can also prevent the disease as part of a healthy lifestyle. Effects of green tea antioxidants on blood sugar control Green tea is rich in antioxidants such as polyphenols, especially EGCG, flavonoids, vitamin C and E , as well as minerals such as manganese and zinc, which play an important role in inhibiting free radicals. These radicals are the main cause of oxidative stress in the body, which damage the cells, especially β cells of the pancreas (insulin producers), causing the occurrence and exacerbation of type 2 diabetes. Antioxidants in green tea protect these vital cells and maintain their normal function, thereby improving insulin production. Also, by reducing chronic inflammation and strengthening the sensitivity of cells to insulin, they help the better entry of glucose into the cells and prevent a sudden increase in blood sugar. In addition, regular consumption of green tea can reduce the risk of chronic complications of diabetes such as damage to the kidneys (nephropathy), retina (retinopathy) and peripheral nerves (neuropathy). Some research has also shown that drinking green tea is associated with a decrease in HbA1c index, which indicates improved long-term blood sugar control. Therefore, green tea antioxidants are not only effective in reducing blood sugar, but also play a valuable role in protecting vital organs and reducing the complications of diabetes. Effect of green tea on type 2 diabetes Green tea has significant effects in the management of type 2 diabetes due to its biologically active compounds, especially epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). One of the most important features of this combination is reducing insulin resistance; A problem that is seen in most patients with type 2 diabetes. Insulin resistance occurs when the body's cells do not respond properly to the hormone insulin, and because of this, glucose cannot enter the cells easily. By activating insulin receptors and increasing cell sensitivity to it, green tea reduces this resistance and causes blood sugar to be better and faster absorbed by cells. Clinical studies have shown that regular consumption of green tea can optimize blood insulin levels and improve the body's response to this hormone, especially in people with prediabetes or uncontrolled diabetes. ### Helping to reduce fasting blood glucose levels On the other hand, regular consumption of green tea also helps to reduce fasting blood glucose levels. Fasting blood glucose is one of the important indicators in the evaluation of diabetes control, and when it is high, it indicates a disturbance in the normal regulation of blood sugar during the night or when the body is at rest. The compounds in green tea slow down the breakdown of carbohydrates by inhibiting digestive enzymes such as amylase, resulting in slower absorption of glucose in the intestine. This process prevents the sudden jump of blood sugar after eating and keeps the blood sugar level in a more stable state. Also, EGCG, by acting on the liver, prevents excessive production of glucose in this organ (gluconeogenesis process), which plays an important role in controlling blood glucose levels, especially in fasting conditions. ### Effect on HbA1c and long-term sugar control In addition, the effect of green tea on reducing HbA1c has also been noticed by researchers. HbA1c or glycosylated hemoglobin is one of the most important indicators in monitoring blood sugar status during the last 2-3 months. Several studies have shown that drinking green tea daily can lower HbA1c levels, especially if combined with a healthy diet and regular physical activity. This reduction indicates better blood sugar control over time and helps reduce the risk of chronic diabetes complications such as heart, kidney and nerve damage. In other words, regular consumption of green tea not only reduces blood sugar in the short term, but also helps to maintain the balance of glucose in the body and prevent its harmful fluctuations in the long term. In general, green tea can be considered as a natural and safe supplement for patients with type 2 diabetes, which plays an effective role in better management of this disease with several mechanisms, including reducing insulin resistance, inhibiting hepatic glucose production, reducing the rapid absorption of carbohydrates, and improving long-term blood sugar control indicators. Mechanism of green tea effect in blood sugar control One of the most important reasons for the popularity of green tea among people with diabetes is its ability to directly affect the physiological mechanisms of blood sugar control. This effect takes place from two main paths: first, strengthening the function of the pancreas and improving the secretion and effectiveness of insulin, and second, reducing the absorption of glucose in the digestive system, especially in the small intestine. Together, these two mechanisms help the body to maintain a balanced blood sugar level and prevent sudden and harmful fluctuations. Regarding the pancreas, we must know that this organ is the main responsible for insulin secretion; A hormone that plays a key role in the entry of glucose into cells. The polyphenolic compounds found in green tea, especially EGCG, have a very active supporting role in protecting beta (β) cells of the pancreas; These cells are responsible for the secretion of insulin, and in diabetic patients, they are usually damaged or malfunction over time. Studies have shown that the antioxidants in green tea protect these vital cells by reducing oxidative stress and chronic inflammation in the pancreatic tissue and help to improve their function in insulin secretion. Also, by stimulating intracellular pathways (including the PI3K/Akt pathway), EGCG increases the sensitivity of cells to insulin, which means more effective use of secreted insulin and reduces the body's need for higher amounts of this hormone. Green tea and reduction of glucose absorption in intestines In the second pathway, i.e. reducing the absorption of glucose in the intestines, green tea works by another mechanism that greatly helps in postprandial blood sugar control. In the natural process of food digestion, enzymes such as alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase break down carbohydrates into simple sugars, which are then absorbed into the blood through the intestinal wall. Polyphenols in green tea, especially catechins, are able to inhibit these enzymes and, as a result, make the process of glucose breakdown and absorption slower. This mechanism causes blood sugar to rise slowly and at a more controlled rate instead of a sudden and sharp increase; An event that greatly helps to improve the glycemic control of patients. Additionally, some research suggests that green tea may directly reduce the entry of glucose into the bloodstream by affecting glucose transporter proteins in the gut (such as SGLT1 and GLUT2). Another important point is that regular consumption of green tea may also affect the gut microbiome. By changing the composition of beneficial gut bacteria, green tea can help regulate nutrient absorption and reduce gastrointestinal inflammation; All these things help to control blood sugar. This effect can be significant, especially in patients with type 2 diabetes who often face a disturbance in the intestinal microbial composition. In sum, the multiple mechanisms of green tea in controlling blood sugar, from the direct effect on pancreatic function and improving insulin secretion to inhibiting digestive enzymes and reducing glucose absorption, indicate the high potential of this herbal drink in the natural and non-pharmacological management of diabetes. Regular and targeted use of green tea, especially in the context of a healthy lifestyle, can play an important complementary role in addition to the main treatments of diabetic patients. How to properly consume green tea for diabetics Although green tea has many properties for type 2 diabetes, it is necessary to use it correctly and consciously to achieve effective results and prevent possible complications. Especially for people with diabetes, it is important to know the permissible amount of consumption, proper timing and check drug interactions. ### Permissible amount of green tea consumption per day for diabetics: Various studies have recommended that daily consumption of green tea in the range of 2 to 4 cups (equivalent to about 400 to 800 ml) is safe and beneficial for people with diabetes. This dosage can deliver the right amount of active compounds such as EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) and other catechins, without causing excessive accumulation of caffeine or other stimulants. However, consuming more than 5 cups a day can be problematic for some people, especially those who are sensitive to caffeine or have kidney or liver problems. It should also be noted that green tea in supplement form (capsule or concentrated powder) provides higher doses of catechins, which may increase the risk of liver toxicity with high consumption. Therefore, consuming green tea naturally (brewed) in the right amount is the best option for diabetics. ### The best time to drink green tea: The time of consumption of green tea also has a great effect on its performance. For diabetics, the best times to drink green tea are: - **30** **to 60 minutes after meals**: drinking green tea after meals can help better control postprandial glucose. It also reduces the absorption of fat and glucose in the digestive system. - **Mornings or between meals**: Drinking green tea at the beginning of the day stimulates metabolism and increases energy. It also reduces false appetite between meals, which is useful for weight control and prevention of overeating. - **Avoid consumption before sleep**: Due to the presence of caffeine, consumption of green tea close to bedtime may cause insomnia or disturbance in sleep quality, which can be problematic for diabetics (for whom adequate sleep is vital). Note: It is better not to consume green tea on an empty stomach, as it may cause stomach irritation or a severe drop in blood sugar, especially if a person is taking hypoglycemic medication. ### Possible interactions with diabetes medications: One of the important issues for people with diabetes is the investigation of drug interactions of green tea with blood sugar control drugs such as metformin, insulin, glibenclamide, etc. Although green tea naturally lowers blood sugar levels, taking it with hypoglycemic drugs may lead to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). On the other hand, some studies have shown that EGCG can affect the metabolism of drugs in the liver, because it affects certain liver enzymes that are involved in the breakdown of drugs. This effect can decrease or increase the plasma concentration of the drug. If a person uses certain medications such as *warfarin* (a blood thinner), blood pressure medications, or even iron supplements, they should consult their doctor about taking green tea at the same time, because green tea may reduce the absorption of iron or interfere with the action of these medications. For more certainty, it is recommended that diabetics leave at least one to two hours between taking medicine and green tea. Also, if a person plans to start consuming green tea regularly and on a high scale, it is better to first consult a doctor or a nutritionist so that drug adjustments can be made according to his physical condition. ### Green tea as part of a healthy lifestyle The important thing here is that green tea should not be considered as a miracle cure or solution on its own, but should be used as part of a healthy and active lifestyle. Drinking green tea regularly can be a good alternative to sweet, sugary and harmful drinks. When a person uses green tea instead of soda or artificially sweetened beverages, it actually reduces the body's glucose load. This simple but effective change keeps blood sugar levels more balanced over time and prevents insulin resistance from developing. In addition, green tea can be very effective in weight control due to the property of increasing metabolism and helping the body's natural fat burning. Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the key factors in preventing type 2 diabetes, because obesity, especially in the abdominal area, is directly related to increased insulin resistance and hormone dysfunction. Green tea also improves mental energy levels and concentration, which can encourage people to be more physically active and change unhealthy behaviors. Therefore, green tea is not only a useful drink, but also a natural tool to promote a healthy lifestyle. Drinking green tea daily, along with a low-sugar diet, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and stress reduction, can have a significant impact on reducing the risk of diabetes. The combination of these factors provides a complete model of natural and sustainable prevention for people who wish to take control of their health before disease develops. **To receive a visit (online or in person) with Dr. Yazdan Panah, fill out the form below**