Excessive coffee may ward off diabetes

Researchers at OU Health Sciences Center just announced the results of some new findings regarding excessive coffee drinking and Type 2 Diabetes. The research suggests 12 cups of coffee or more per day can reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes by 70 percent among American Indians.

However, OU Health Sciences researcher Dr. Madona Azar also has a warning about this latest research, "Twelve cups is a pot of coffee. Caffeine has a lot of health benefits, but moderation is the key. Also keep in mind that it will predispose you to heart problems."

Researchers suspect the antioxidants in coffee are a big part of the success in warding off diabetes. Baristas like Melody Harwell at the downtown Oklahoma City coffeehouse Coffee Slingers are not surprised.

Harwell says, "Coffee is amazing. It lowers blood pressure. It's high in antioxidants and it's a nice supplement for fiber." Researchers only studied caffeinated coffee, decaf was not included.