How a Daily Cup of Tea May Improve Your Diabetes Management

It’s time to spill the tea. Your daily steep can have positive health implications on overall disease risk and diabetes management. With quality options such as green, black, white, oolong, and matcha, no wonder it has grown in "populari-tea!" We have reviewed some recent data about the potential health benefits of consuming tea on overall health and diabetes management.

General health benefits of tea

Recent research has suggested that regular green or black tea consumption may have protective properties that improve cardiovascular and metabolic health. Specifically, the polyphenols and flavanols found in certain teas may help reduce the risk of atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease. There is also evidence of a possible inverse association (as one increases the other decreases) between tea consumption and certain cancers.¹

Specific benefits for people with diabetes

Regular tea consumption may also help prevent or improve diabetes management. Experimental studies show that tea may help enhance insulin action, improve insulin resistance and turn on the insulin signaling pathway.²

A separate study reviewing the chemical composition of matcha green tea found that only those who drank green tea, rather than black or oolong tea, experienced the possible anti-diabetic benefits. Although more research is needed on which tea may have the most health benefits, black tea drinkers still experienced a decrease in inflammatory markers.³

More about matcha

Matcha is a type of tea that has recently surfaced in the spotlight and has taken social media by storm. Its bright color, unique flavor profile, and sweet aroma caught the attention of health enthusiasts (and their Instagram accounts). But, what differentiates matcha from other types of tea?

While matcha is a powdered version of green tea, its high antioxidant content is unmatched against other teas. Thus, matcha is thought to provide even more significant health benefits than traditional green or black tea, although additional research is needed.

For example, its high polyphenol content may provide blood glucose stabilizing properties. Specifically, research shows that regular matcha consumption may decrease starch digestion, thereby slowing down the release and absorption of glucose in the body. This may ultimately improve overall insulin sensitivity.³

Tasty ways to enjoy tea

There are plenty of ways to reap the benefits of tea without simply opting for a quick steep. Check out how to satisfy your tastebuds and your health with these daily options:

• Create a frozen treat: Take your favorite low-sugar ice cream and mix in matcha powder! You can also make a smoothie with matcha powder.
• Brew something new: Transforming your tea into a latte. I love to use my favorite plant-based milk to create flavor combinations such as green tea, cinnamon, and vanilla matcha sweetened with stevia.
• Embrace the classics: Stick to long-appreciated drink options such as chai and London fog. They can also be enjoyed over ice on a hot summer day.
• Go for oats: Use tea as an add-in to your morning oatmeal or overnight oats. Add half a teaspoon of your favorite tea for an uplifting flavor. It can also be baked into granola.

A warm cup of tea can provide you with relaxation and comfort when you need it most!
What is your favorite kind of tea to prepare and enjoy?