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Is Bulletproof Coffee Healthy For Diabetics?
Bulletproof coffee has created both curiosity and controversy in recent months. While its purported health benefits for people with diabetes could include reduced spikes in blood sugar and energy from fat sources, it should be remembered that it shouldn’t replace eating healthy breakfast or lunches and that its calories can easily add up.
Created by mixing hot black coffee with unsalted grass-fed butter (for optimal results, MCT oil may also be added), the drink contains shorter medium chain triglycerides that the body quickly breaks down for energy, as well as heart-healthy saturated fats found in grass-fed butter (grass-fed is preferred).
Although many health claims for grass-fed butter exist, there is limited scientific support to back them. One study suggested that its fatty acids help reduce inflammation; however, more research must be completed. Furthermore, its high level of saturated fats increases cholesterol, an established risk factor for cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Coffee’s caffeine can lead to jitters and energy drops. Meanwhile, its high fat content may slow the digestive process down too much and lead to bloating, gas, diarrhea or constipation. Finally, breakfast often leaves diabetics feeling famished due to lack of fiber and carbohydrates – not ideal.
If you’re living with diabetes and trying to manage it effectively, it is wise to speak to your healthcare provider before beginning any new diets or beverages – including bulletproof coffee – due to our limited knowledge about its long-term impacts. In particular, because we do not fully understand its long-term implications.
Opting for bulletproof coffee instead of eating healthy breakfast items is never recommended, particularly among diabetics. Although such beverages provide some carbs and saturated fats, they lack essential vitamins, minerals and fiber essential for a balanced diet.
If you decide to give it a try, be sure to have it early in the day so that any excess calories can be burnt off before bedtime. Otherwise, overeating can easily lead to weight gain which in turn contributes to diabetes and other health conditions. Sleep is particularly vital if you have diabetes as it helps control glucose levels and maintain good management practices – Novant Health primary care clinicians offer assistance at locations near you so schedule your appointment now!