Prediabetes is the precursor to type 2 diabetes. However, at this stage it is still possible to normalize blood sugar levels and prevent the development of diabetes. Regular coffee consumption could significantly increase the likelihood of prediabetes remission.
A recent study examined whether there is a connection between coffee consumption and total caffeine intake and the likelihood of regression or progression of prediabetes. The results are published in the “Journal of Diabetes & Metabolic Disorders”.
Coffee consumption influences diabetes risk
Previous research has shown that coffee affects blood sugar and blood pressure. The effect is primarily attributed to the caffeine it contains, which has been proven to help you lose weight and reduce the risk of diabetes.
An Iranian research team has now examined the extent to which regular coffee consumption can prevent the transition from prediabetes to diabetes in 334 people with prediabetes. Around half of the participants were women and the average age was almost 50 years.
40 percent developed diabetes
At the start of the study, habitual coffee consumption was also recorded and the participants were followed up every three years over a period of nine years.
During the follow-up period, around 40 percent of the participants developed type 2 diabetes. However, a normalization of blood sugar levels was observed in an equally high proportion, the team reports.
Coffee increases the chance of remission
When compared with regular coffee consumption, the researchers found that it doubled the likelihood of a return to normal blood sugar levels.
In addition, the average blood sugar levels of coffee consumers two hours after a meal were significantly lower than those of the other participants, the team reports.
However, there was no connection between the progression or regression of prediabetes and overall caffeine consumption. This suggests that other ingredients in coffee also play a role.
Use coffee for prevention?
Overall, the study suggests that habitual coffee consumption significantly increases the chance of returning to normal blood sugar levels in people with prediabetes. Coffee could also make a contribution to preventing diabetes. (fp)
