Taking the simple step of cutting caffeine from our diets can help control diabetes, say researchers at the Duke University Medical Center. Daily consumption of caffeine in coffee, tea, or soft drinks increases blood sugar levels for people with Type 2 diabetes, undermining individuals’ efforts to control the disease.

The researchers theorize that caffeine may interfere with the metabolic process that moves glucose from the blood into muscle and other cells, where it is used for fuel. They also think that caffeine triggers the release of adrenaline—the fight-orflight hormone—known to boost sugar levels in the bloodstream.

“Coffee is such a common drink in our society that we forget that it contains a powerful drug—caffeine,” cautions Dr. James Lane, a psychologist and lead author of the newly-released study. “Our findings suggest that one way to lower blood sugar is to simply quit drinking coffee or any other caffeinated beverages. It may not be easy but it doesn’t cost a dime and there are no adverse side effects.”