Top 6 Proven Teas for Diabetes: Tips, Recipe & More!

Legend has it that tea was discovered by Emperor Shen Nong of China when some tea leaves blew into a pot of boiling water he was preparing. Since then, this beverage has become an integral part of various cultures and may even have health benefits for people suffering from diabetes.

In this article, we’ll explore a list of teas for diabetes, delve into what diabetes is and the factors affecting it, and discuss the pros and cons of drinking these teas.

So, prepare your cup of tea and get ready for some enlightening readin’ & sippin’ time about the best teas for diabetes.

List of Teas for Diabetes

Let’s have a look at a list of the 6 best teas for diabetes.

1. Green Tea

Green tea is a type of tea that is made from unoxidized leaves. It is traditionally used for improving mental alertness and aiding in digestion. A study by Liu et al. (2014) examined the effects of green tea extract on insulin resistance and glucagon-like peptide 1 in patients with type 2 diabetes and lipid abnormalities. The results showed beneficial impacts on glycemic and lipid profiles.

To craft a soothing cup of green tea, submerge a teaspoon of green tea leaves in 175°F or 80°C water, let it sit for 1-3 minutes, then sieve and partake. If you want to know more about the other health benefits of green tea, check out our article on green tea benefits!

2. Oolong Tea

Oolong tea is partially fermented and is somewhere between green tea and black tea in terms of oxidation and flavor. It is generally consumed to improve heart health and to provide a mental boost. A study by Chen et al. (2009) investigated the antioxidant capacity of polysaccharides from green tea, oolong tea, and black tea, which is beneficial for individuals with diabetes.

One to two cups of oolong tea a day can help. Steep 1 teaspoon of oolong tea leaves for 3 to 5 minutes in hot water. If you want to know more about the other health benefits of oolong tea, check out our article on the oolong tea benefits!

3. Black Tea

Black tea is fully oxidized, giving it a dark color and rich flavor. It has been consumed to increase alertness and improve digestive health. The study by Chen et al. (2009) also highlighted that black tea’s polysaccharides exhibited antioxidant activity, beneficial for diabetes.

To make it, infuse a teaspoonful of black tea leaves in a cup of boiling water (around 212°F or 100°C), wait for 3-5 minutes, then pour through a strainer and delight in your brew. If you want to know more, have a look at our article on black tea benefits!

4. White Tea

White tea is minimally processed and harvested when the tea plant is young. It has traditionally been used for its anti-aging properties and as a source of antioxidants.

While white tea has not been extensively studied for its effects on diabetes, it shares some of the beneficial antioxidants found in green tea, which are useful for people with diabetes (Chen et al., 2009). Drinking one cup of white tea a day can be a healthy addition.

To prepare, steep 1 teaspoon of white tea leaves in hot water for 4 to 5 minutes. If you want to know more about the other health benefits of white tea, check out our article on the benefits of white tea!

5. Herbal Teas for Diabetes

Herbal teas like fenugreek, cinnamon, and ginger tea are caffeine-free alternatives to traditional teas. These teas are often used for their digestive, anti-inflammatory, and blood sugar-lowering effects. While not directly referenced in the studies, herbal teas have long been associated with blood sugar management, which makes them one of the good teas for diabetes prevention (Liu et al., 2018).

6. Rooibos Tea

Rooibos tea is a caffeine-free herbal tea originating from South Africa. It is often consumed to relieve stress, improve digestive health, and support the immune system. Rooibos tea has not been a focus of studies regarding diabetes, but its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties are generally considered beneficial for metabolic health, including diabetes (Liu et al., 2018).

To make this tea, steep a tablespoon of organic red rooibos in a cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes, then strain and savor. If you want to know more about the other health benefits of rooibos tea, check out our article on the benefits of rooibos tea!

In summary, green tea, oolong tea, black tea, white tea, herbal teas, and rooibos tea are the best teas for diabetes. Each offers unique benefits that can complement a comprehensive diabetes management plan.

This rounds off our list of teas good for diabetes. Incorporating these teas into your diet can offer a multifaceted approach to managing this chronic condition.

What is Diabetes and How is it Influenced?

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder that results in elevated blood sugar levels.

Factors Affecting Diabetes

• Genetics
• Lifestyle
• Diet
• Physical activity

Natural remedies like herbal teas for diabetes have gained traction as people seek alternative ways to manage their condition.

Who Should Drink Tea for Diabetes

Individuals with pre-diabetes, type 1 or type 2 diabetes may find these teas beneficial as a supplementary measure to a well-rounded treatment plan.

Recipes and Blends

To create a diabetes-friendly tea blend that incorporates some of the best teas for diabetes, consider mixing green tea, cinnamon, and fenugreek.

Diabetes-Friendly Tea Blend Recipe:

• 1 tsp of black tea leaves
• 1 tsp of organic red rooibos
• 1 tsp of dried fenugreek seeds
• 2 cups of water

Instructions:

1. Boil the water and add all the ingredients.
2. Allow the blend to steep for 10-15 minutes.
3. Strain the mixture, pour into a cup, and savor your health-boosting beverage!

Incorporating Teas Into Your Daily Routine

Beyond tea, other natural remedies like cinnamon and fenugreek can be included in your daily routine along with a balanced diet and exercise.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best tea for diabetes?

Among various options, green tea stands out as the best tea for diabetes. Multiple scientific studies, including those by Chen et al. (2009) and Liu et al. (2014), have demonstrated that green tea can have a positive effect on insulin sensitivity and blood sugar levels. It’s rich in antioxidants and has been shown to help improve glycemic and lipid profiles in type 2 diabetes patients. Therefore, incorporating green tea into a diabetes management plan can offer significant benefits.

What can diabetics put in their tea?

For individuals managing diabetes, it’s crucial to avoid sugar and high-calorie sweeteners. Natural options like stevia can offer a sweet touch without affecting blood sugar levels. Some people also add a slice of lemon or a dash of cinnamon for flavor enhancement. The key is to keep it simple and avoid additives that could spike blood sugar levels.

What drink is best for diabetics?

Besides teas good for diabetes, water remains the most recommended drink for diabetics, as it has no impact on blood sugar levels. Herbal infusions without added sugar or sweeteners are also suitable. In terms of juice, it’s best to opt for unsweetened options and consume them in moderation, considering their carbohydrate content.

What drinks bring blood sugar down?

To help bring down blood sugar levels, opt for teas known to be good for diabetes prevention. Green tea, with its antioxidant properties, is a top choice. Herbal teas such as fenugreek tea have also been traditionally used to regulate blood sugar. Incorporating these teas into your routine can complement your broader diabetes management strategy.

Is chai tea OK for diabetics?

Chai tea can be a good option for diabetics if prepared mindfully. The spices in chai, such as cinnamon and cardamom, have their own health benefits but ensure the blend you choose does not contain added sugar. Making chai at home allows for better control over the ingredients, enabling you to opt for natural sweeteners like stevia instead of sugar.

When to See a Doctor

When experiencing symptoms like frequent urination, thirst, and fatigue, consult your healthcare provider.

• Frequent urination
• Increased thirst
• Fatigue

Conclusion

We’ve discussed the benefits of green tea, oolong tea, and black tea for diabetes management. Give these teas a try and share your experiences.

References

• Chen, H., Qu, Z., Fu, L., Dong, P., & Zhang, X. (2009). Physicochemical properties and antioxidant capacity of 3 polysaccharides from green tea, oolong tea, and black tea. Journal of Food Science, 74(6), C469-C474. Link Here
• Liu, C., Huang, C., Chen, I., Chiu, J., & Hsu, C. (2014). Effects of green tea extract on insulin resistance and glucagon-like peptide 1 in patients with type 2 diabetes and lipid abnormalities: a randomized, double-blinded, and placebo-controlled trial. Plos One, 9(3), e91163. Link Here
• Liu, Z., Bruins, M., Ni, L., & Vincken, J. (2018). Green and black tea phenolics: bioavailability, transformation by colonic microbiota, and modulation of colonic microbiota. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 66(32), 8469-8477. Link Here