Herbal tea may seem like a diabetes-friendly drink.
But youre living with diabetes, think twice before you sip.
Diabetesis a chronic condition where blood sugar is too high.
Photo:Stefania Pelfini, La Waziya Photography/Getty Images
How does it happen?
Can drinking herbal tea help you if you have diabetes?
And is it safe?
Not necessarily, saysErin Palinski-Wade, RD, CDECS, author of2 Day Diabetes Diet.
Theres another reason to be cautious about herbal teas.
So, which herbal teas should you avoid if youre living with diabetes?
Heres what diabetes experts have to say.
But it can also be found in tea form.
However, Palinski-Wade recommends caution before sipping a cup of aloe vera tea.
We arent knocking the science.
On the upside, chamomile isnt a problem for everyone living with diabetes, just those on certain medications.
Fenugreek Herbal Tea
Fenugreek has a long history as a herbal remedy for diabetes management.
Fenugreek supplements may have hypoglycemic effects, causing a decrease in blood sugar, says Drago.
Plus, they may also interact with blood-thinning medications, causing concern for those with diabetes and cardiovascular conditions.
Thats why Palinski-Wade and Drago recommend saving your money and focusing on whats in your kitchen.
They’re the best over-the-counter remedy for diabetes management!
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.What is Diabetes?
U.S. Food & Drug Administration.Questions and Answers on Dietary Supplements.
2023;24(18):13999. doi:10.3390/ijms241813999
