What teas can people with diabetes drink to nourish the blood?

Individuals with diabetes experience impaired pancreatic metabolism of insulin glargine, resulting in abnormal glucose metabolism. Consequently, they must avoid high-sugar foods. Patients with milder forms of diabetes often manage their condition through dietary modifications—opting for low-sugar foods or those known to lower blood lipid levels—while those with more severe disease typically require insulin glargine injections. So, which teas can help nourish the blood for people with diabetes?

Which teas can help nourish the blood in diabetes?

Fo-ti (Polygonum multiflorum) tea: Fo-ti helps lower blood lipids and inhibit thrombus formation. For individuals with hyperlipidemia, regular consumption of Fo-ti tea yields notably effective results. To prepare, decoct 20–30 g of processed Fo-ti in water for 30 minutes, then allow it to cool slightly before drinking as a tea. One dose per day is recommended. Fo-ti possesses tonic, lipid-lowering, and antithrombotic properties; its efficacy in managing hyperlipidemia is well-documented.

According to the Ming Dynasty pharmacopoeia Ben Cao Gang Mu (“Compendium of Materia Medica”), Fo-ti “nourishes the blood and benefits the liver, consolidates essence and strengthens the kidneys, fortifies tendons and bones, and darkens graying hair—making it an excellent tonic herb. It is neither cold nor hot in nature, and its therapeutic effects surpass those of Rehmannia glutinosa and Asparagus cochinchinensis.”

Additionally, black tea, green tea, and oolong tea all stimulate insulin secretion and exhibit hypoglycemic effects. Since most diabetic patients present with patterns of yin deficiency and internal heat, green tea and oolong tea are generally suitable choices. However, individuals with a constitution characterized by deficiency-cold should avoid green tea and instead opt for black tea or ripe Pu-erh tea. Elderly or physically frail individuals are best suited to oolong tea and black tea. We hope this information proves helpful to you!