Diabetes mellitus is an acute metabolic disorder wherein the body is unable to convert sugars, starches, and other foods into usable energy. Most of the foods you eat are normally converted into a kind of sugar called glucose during the process of digestion. The bloodstream then transports this glucose throughout the body. The hormone, insulin, then converts glucose into active energy or is stored for future use.
Eat This, Not That!
Those with diabetes can either not make enough insulin or their bodies cannot use the insulin correctly. This is the reason why too much glucose gets accumulated with the bloodstream. There are certain kinds of foods for diabetics that can help manage your blood sugar levels efficiently. They are as follows:
- Bitter gourd
- Indian gooseberry
- Fenugreek Seeds
- Effective supplements
- Helpful Herbs
Bitter Gourd (Karela)
If you wish to keep blood sugar levels under control, drink a cup full of fresh bitter gourd (karela) juice first thing in the morning Karela is known to be effective in lowering elevated blood sugar levels in type II diabetes. You can also have it in the cooked form. Karela helps improve carbohydrate metabolism, supports the immune system and is rich in Vitamin A and C. It is also beneficial in the treatment of piles, heat boils and rash.
Indian Gooseberry (Amla)
This all-rounder Berry has infinite benefits. One of the richest sources of Vitamin C, the Indian Gooseberry boosts immunity when taken in high doses (three to four berries). It helps improve digestion, is a potent liver cleanser, works as a laxative, brings a glow to the skin and is also beneficial in erasing age spots (brown spots on the skin). When it comes to type II Diabetes, it helps bring down the blood sugar levels. Mix a tablespoon of amla juice with half a cup of bitter gourd juice and take it on an empty stomach in the morning. It is especially beneficial for young children suffering from frequent colds and throat infections.
Dark purple in disposition, the Jambool is an age-old remedy for a number of conditions. In the Ayurveda, the seeds, as well as the fruit, are used in the treatment of type II Diabetes. The dried powder of the Jambool seed is given to diabetic patients in a dosage of two gm thrice a day. Eating the fresh Jambool fruit has a beneficiary effect on the liver and pancreas too. It helps remove toxins from the liver and prevents fatty liver infiltration.
Fenugreek Seeds (Methi)
Fenugreek seeds are known to be highly effective in treating type II Diabetes. Two tablespoons of powdered methi seeds should be taken in the mornings on an empty stomach to bring down blood sugar levels effectively. In addition, this will also help bring down triglycerides and serum cholesterol levels. Methi leaves are also useful in combating anemia. However, most of these benefits will be seen only when the treatment is coupled with diet and lifestyle changes.
Take some antioxidants like Vitamins A, C, and E. They will protect the body against unnecessary aging. Minerals like zinc, chromium, selenium and magnesium help control blood sugar imbalances. Discuss it with your doctor if you are a diabetic.
Certain herbs available in pharmacies are especially good in controlling Diabetes. Karneem made from Karela is one such herb. Jambukasav, syrup made from jamuns is another such herb that helps control blood sugar.
Avoid the these foods if you are suffering from Diabetes:
- Milk and Milk products
- Tea or Coffee
- White flour and its products
- Fried Foods
- Foods with a high glycemic index
Sucrose, present in table sugar, provides no nutrition instead increases calories and carbohydrates intake. Try substituting this kind of sugar with natural sugar, like honey, jaggery (gur), molasses etc.
Whole Milk and its Products
Try replacing high-fat milk or its products with low-fat milk and its products like low-fat yogurt (curd) or low-fat cottage cheese.
Tea and Coffee
Avoid having more than two cups of the regular tea or decaffeinated coffee every day. Try to switch over to herbal teas.
Refined Flour and its Products
Replace these with whole grains, whole wheat or soy bread and unpolished rice, whole wheat pasta.
French fries, fried chicken/Fish, Potato chips, soak up tons of oil during their preparation. This leads to piling of extra calories if eaten frequently.
Foods with a High Glycemic Index
Avoid white rice, potatoes, bread, cakes, and banana — they spike the blood sugar levels.
Even if you don’t appear to be at the risk of being diabetic, being aware of diabetes symptoms and causes may help us or a loved one make the necessary lifestyle changes that will further decrease the risk presented by it. The best defense against complications is taking care of diabetes. Keeping our blood sugar levels near the normal range will make us feel better. it will help us stay healthy in the future.
ANJALI MUKERJEE, Nutritionist, Founder Director-Health Total, having health centers in Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Pune -manages obesity & other health related disorders.
Contact numbers: 9650684061/+91 86575 61727
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