Diabetes is one of the most commonly found disease affecting millions to people. In earlier days very few people suffer from this kind of disease. Diabetes negatively impacts the blood sugar and insulin levels of the body. It is the cause of the onset of a lot of other serious complications. Diabetes is a kind of disorder which is uncontrollable. But with regular exercise and proper diet, it can be controlled.
What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a group of metabolic disorders characterized by high blood sugar levels over a prolonged period. It is caused due to the pancreas not producing enough insulin, or the cells of the body not responding properly to the insulin produces. Symptoms of high blood sugar level include frequent urination, increased thirst, and increased hunger. If proper treatment is not taken it may cause many complications like diabetic ketoacidosis, hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state, or death. Serious long term complications may include cardiovascular disease, stroke, chronic kidney disease, foot ulcers and damage to the eyes.
Here is the list of 5 foods and herbs which a diabetic person should eat:
- Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is one of the most useful plant with many different uses. Many people know the benefits of aloe vera for skin care, but it may also have other benefits. Aloe Vera is the best food item which slows down the progress of type 2 diabetes. Some researchers suggested that aloe vera might help protect and repair the beta cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. The researchers believed this might be due to aloe’s antioxidant effects.
Ways of taking aloe vera:
- Add aloe vera pulp to a juice or smoothie.
- You can also take aloe vera juice early in the morning.
- Take capsules that contain aloe vera as a supplement.
- People should not eat aloe vera skin products.
2. Bitter Melon: Also known as Momordica Charantia (Karela) in Hindi, is a medicinal fruit. Practitioners of traditional Chinese and Indian medicine have used bitter melon for centuries. It is like a vegetable which can be cooked and used in many dishes. It is found that taking bitter melon in the following forms can lead to a reduction in blood sugar levels in some people. Eating or drinking the bitter melon can change the taste of mouth or some of you may not like, but taking supplements may make it more palatable.
Ways of taking bitter melon:
- seeds
- blended vegetable pulp
- juice
- supplements
3. Cinnamon: Cinnamon is basically a fragrant spice that comes from the bark of a tree. It is a popular ingredient which is added in sweets, baked goods and other dishes. It has its own taste that can add sweetness without adding any additional sugar. It is good for people with type 2 diabetes. A 2010 study found that cinnamon may also improve :
- glucose
- insulin and insulin sensitivity
- lipids or fats in the blood
- antioxidants status
- blood pressure
- helps in reducing weight
- digestion
Ways of taking cinnamon:
- in a variety of cooked or baked dishes.
- in tea
- or as a supplement
4. Fenugreek: Fenugreek is another ingredient which is used as a spice. It also helps to lower blood sugar level. The seeds contain fibre and chemicals that help to slow down the digestion of carbohydrates and sugar. This is also possible that the seed may help in delay or prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes. A 3-year investigation published in 2015 noted that people who take powered fenugreek seed were less likely to receive a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. It can lead to an increased level of insulin in the body, leading to a reduction in blood sugar and lower cholesterol level.
Ways of taking fenugreek:
- include fenugreek in certain dishes.
- add it to warm water and drink.
- grind into a powder.
- take it as a supplement in capsule form.
5. Ginger: Ginger is one of the most used ingredients. It is another herb that people have used for thousands of years in traditional medicine systems. It is often used to improve digestive and inflammatory issues. In 2015 study it was suggested that ginger may also help treat diabetes. The result showed that ginger lowered blood sugar levels, but did not lower blood insulin levels. Ginger may also reduce insulin resistance in the body for type 2 diabetes.
Ways of taking ginger:
- by adding ginger powder or chopped, fresh ginger root to raw or cooked food.
- brewed into tea.
- as a supplement in capsule form.
- by drinking it in ginger ale.
A diabetic person should always contact a doctor before taking any supplement or herb. The doctor may suggest starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing it until a person finds a suitable dose. People should also ensure they obtain their herbs and supplements from a high-quality source. Herbs are the best medicine to cure diabetes they should not be replaced with medications.
