Can people with diabetes drink boiled adzuki bean and coix seed tea?

Red Bean and Coix Seed Tea is a beverage known for its detoxifying properties—especially effective in summer for clearing heat and relieving summer-heat symptoms. Can people with diabetes drink boiled Red Bean and Coix Seed Tea?

Can people with diabetes drink boiled Red Bean and Coix Seed Tea?

Individuals with diabetes may consume Red Bean and Coix Seed Tea in moderation, but must absolutely avoid adding sugar. Moreover, this tea is rich in starch and contains a certain amount of calories; excessive intake may cause a sudden postprandial blood glucose spike. Therefore, it should only be consumed in small quantities when blood glucose levels are well-controlled—ideally as a light snack between lunch and dinner (e.g., mid-afternoon). Additionally, increasing physical activity—particularly after meals—can help boost energy expenditure and mitigate adverse effects on postprandial blood glucose.

Both red beans and coix seeds are considered “cooling” foods in traditional Chinese medicine. Overconsumption by healthy individuals may increase internal coldness, irritate the stomach, stimulate excess gastric acid secretion, and potentially lead to diarrhea—especially in those with a constitution characterized by deficiency-cold. Individuals with such a constitution should avoid this tea altogether, as it may exacerbate internal coldness. Excessive consumption may also irritate the gastrointestinal tract, causing functional disturbances and gastric pain. In particular, patients with gastritis, gastric ulcers, or other gastric disorders may experience symptom aggravation upon drinking Red Bean and Coix Seed Tea. Thus, the above-mentioned groups are advised to limit their intake of this tea.

People with diabetes are encouraged to increase their intake of animal-based proteins—such as fish, shrimp, eggs, dairy products, and lean meats—as these are high-quality proteins suitable for diabetic diets. We hope this information proves helpful. Wishing you good health and a joyful life!