what-eat-if-you-are-diabetic

What to Eat

If you wish to keep blood sugar levels under control then incorporate more fiber, whole grains, pulses, nuts, seeds, and a variety of fruits, and vegetables into your diet. You can also take a tablespoon of isabgol to increase your fiber intake. Eat sprouts every day. They are rich in protein, calcium, and nutrients that help increase immunity and balance blood sugar. Avoid refined foods such as white rice, maida, dessert, soft drinks, chocolates, sugar, and foods rich in fat.

Bitter Gourd (karela)

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 rashes.

Indian Gooseberry (amla)

This berry has infinite benefits. It is 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.

Jambul

The jambul is an age-old remedy for a number of health conditions. In Ayurveda, the seeds, as well as the fruit, are used in the treatment of type II diabetes. The dried powder of the jambul seed is given to diabetic patients in a dosage of two gm thrice a day. Eating the fresh jambul 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 morning 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 anaemia. However, most of these benefits will be seen only when the treatment is coupled with healthy diet and lifestyle changes.

Effective Supplements

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.

Helpful Herbs

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.

Keep Stress in Check

Stress promotes disease states in the body. It produces a hormone called cortisol, which depresses our immune system. Stress triggers free radical damage and upsets blood sugar making us age faster. Try relaxation techniques like meditation, pranayam, yoga, listening to music or taking a short holiday.

Awareness – the Key

Even if you don’t appear to be at the risk of being diabetic, being aware of diabetes symptoms and causes may help you make the necessary lifestyle changes that will further decrease the risk presented by it. The best defence against complications is taking precautions against diabetes. Keeping blood sugar levels normal range will help protect us against the risk of suffering from diabetes.

August 30, 2016

Leave a reply