As reported by Endocrine Web, a growing body of evidence suggests that caffeine may disrupt several metabolic processes and increase an individual’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes, according to a new report from a Duke University researcher.
James Lane reported in the Journal of Caffeine Research that several recent studies have looked at the connection between high levels of caffeine consumption and impaired metabolic function. After examining these investigations, he said that most have confirmed that caffeine can increase insulin resistance, one of the first steps toward developing type 2 diabetes.
Furthermore, in adults who already have type 2 diabetes, consuming caffeine can make their condition worse. Lane described one recent study, which showed that the increase in blood sugar levels that occurs following a meal rich in carbohydrates is nearly doubled when a caffeinated drink is included as part of the meal. This could make treating diabetes more difficult.
Millions of people around the world consume caffeine on a daily basis. Given the metabolic complications that this can cause, Jack James, a professor at the National University of Ireland and editor-in-chief of the journal, said that this is definitely reason for concern.
“The links that have been revealed between diabetes and the consumption of caffeine beverages are of monumental importance when it is acknowledged that more than 80 percent of the world’s population consumes caffeine daily,” he said. “Dr. Lane’s review of the topic gives the clearest account to date of what we know, what we don’t know, and what needs to be done – urgently!”
Diabetes is one of the most expensive conditions to treat. Anything that increases a person’s chances of developing the disease or worsens the condition of those who already have it may represent a major public health issue.
