Type 2 diabetes: Coffee, green and black tea could lower blood sugar - drinks to avoid

Living with the type 2 diabetes means that you have to be aware of everything you eat or drink. According to studies what are the best beverages to consume to help lower your blood sugar levels?

Several other studies have pointed to green tea as a potentially effective method of controlling diabetes, and even improving insulin sensitivity.

The Pacific College of Oriental Medicine suggests that the antioxidant activity of polyphenols and polysaccharides are to credit for these benefits.

These same antioxidants are attributed with anticancer, cholesterol lowering, and blood pressure management benefits.

In a study published in the US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health, the effect of green tea on glucose control and insulin sensitivity was investigated.

The study found that green tea consumption significantly reduced the fasting glucose and haemoglobin concentrations.

Score studies showed that green tea significantly reduced fasting insulin concentrations.

This meta-analysis suggested that green tea had favourable effects, ie, decreased fasting glucose and Hb A1c concentrations, concluded the study.

When it comes to drinks to avoid, soda takes the top spot.

On average, one can has a whopping 40 grams of carbohydrates and 150 calories playing havoc on blood sugar levels.

Research has shown that energy drinks not only spike your blood sugar, but they may also cause insulin resistance. This can increase your risk for type 2 diabetes.

Fruit juice should also be limited as there is often a high amount of carbohydrates and pure (natural) sugar involved.