Caffeine may contribute to diabetes

DURHAM, N.C., April 8 (UPI) -- Caffeine may contribute to type 2 diabetes, U.S. researchers say, citing a study that challenges previous research that caffeine helps prevent diabetes.

James Lane of Duke University says studies have shown the increase in blood glucose levels that occurs after adults with type 2 diabetes eat carbohydrates is exaggerated if they also drink a caffeinated beverage such as coffee.

The inaugural issue of Journal of Caffeine Research: The International Multidisciplinary Journal of Caffeine Science reports a growing body of research suggests caffeine disrupts glucose metabolism and may contribute to the development and poor control of type 2 diabetes.

This caffeine effect could contribute to higher glucose levels in those with diabetes and could compromise treatment aimed at controlling their blood glucose, Lane says.

"The links that have been revealed between diabetes and the consumption of caffeine beverages -- especially coffee -- are of monumental importance when it is acknowledged that more than 80 percent of the world's population consumes caffeine daily," Jack E. James, editor in chief of journal and of the National University of Ireland, says.