Are there foods that reduce high blood sugar? Yes, there are certain foods you can consume to manage high blood sugar. The search for solutions against high blood sugar, and consequently, diabetes has gained prominence in recent times with the positive cases of many individuals recovering from the symptoms of diabetes. Some of these individuals attribute their recoveries not to insulin injections, but to the consumption of medicinal foods that reduce high blood sugar drastically.
What is High Blood Sugar?
High Blood Sugar is as simple and descriptive as it sounds, too much sugar in the blood. But in medical terms broken down to layman’s terms, what does it mean?
High blood sugar, also called hyperglycemia, is having too much sugar floating around in your bloodstream. It is a situation where your body cannot convert the sugar in your bloodstream into insulin or your body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces.
It is mostly apparent in people with diabetes. Perhaps you are a diabetic patient, or you are just curious to know the certain types of foods that reduce high blood sugar, this blog post is for you.
5 Powerful Foods That Reduce High Blood Sugar
1. Unripe Plantains
Unripe plantains are rich in resistant starch, a type of fiber that slows down digestion and glucose absorption, aiding in the reduction of high blood sugar. This means the sugar release from an unripe plantain happens gradually, preventing those dreaded blood sugar spikes. Resistant starch acts as a prebiotic, feeding the bacteria in your gut. These then produce beneficial byproducts like short-chain fatty acids, which improve insulin sensitivity, and your body’s ability to utilize sugar effectively.
How to eat: They can be eaten cooked or as flour in baked goods.
2. Beans
Research suggests that certain compounds in beans, like flavonoids and phenolic acids, improve insulin sensitivity. This means your cells become more receptive to insulin, the key that unlocks the door for sugar to enter and be used for energy, further promoting stable blood sugar levels.
It’s important to remember that while beans play a valuable role in blood sugar management, they are not a standalone solution. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management are crucial for optimal blood sugar control.
How to eat: Enjoy beans and rice, pasta, or bread made with whole grains for a complete and satisfying meal.
3. Millet
Millets are packed with fiber, both soluble and insoluble. This dynamic duo slows down digestion and sugar absorption, giving your body time to process sugars properly and avoiding those overwhelming blood sugar surges. Fiber also keeps you feeling fuller for longer, reducing cravings and preventing unhealthy snacking that can sabotage your blood sugar levels.
Millets contain various antioxidants, like phenolic acids and flavonoids, which may protect cells from damage associated with chronic conditions like diabetes. This can contribute to overall metabolic health and support healthy blood sugar control.
How to eat: Replace white rice, couscous, or pasta with cooked millet in your favorite dishes.
4. Leafy Greens (Kale, Parsley, and Celery)
Each of these leafy friends made it to the list of foods that reduce high blood sugar. These three vegetables offer something unique to the quest for healthy blood sugar levels.
Kale
Like all leafy greens, kale is a fiber powerhouse, slowing down digestion and sugar absorption, and preventing blood sugar spikes. Kale consists of magnesium, chromium, and vitamin K, all crucial for blood sugar regulation and metabolism. It protects cells from damage, potentially reducing the risk of chronic conditions like diabetes that can impact blood sugar.
Celery
Celery is a low-glycemic vegetable that is ideal for managing blood sugar without sacrificing deliciousness. It offers some fiber to further slow down sugar absorption. It also helps to regulate blood pressure, indirectly benefiting blood sugar management.
Parsley
It is rich in antioxidants and offers long-term health benefits, including supporting healthy blood sugar levels. It also contains trace amounts of minerals like chromium and magnesium, which play a role in blood sugar metabolism.
How to eat: Make smoothies out of kale, celery and parsley. You can also reverse diabetes with a proven formula called Green Veggies Detox Tea. Check it out here
5. Chia Seeds
While managing type 2 diabetes requires a comprehensive approach, incorporating certain seeds into your diet can offer additional support. Among these, chia seeds and flaxseeds have garnered attention for their potential blood sugar-balancing properties.
Studies suggest Chia seeds slow down sugar absorption, leading to more stable blood sugar levels. Chia Seeds contain fiber and boast of a low digestible carb content, proving valuable allies in blood sugar management.
How to eat: Sprinkle chia seeds on top of your cooked oatmeal, along with fruits and nuts, for a nutritious and filling breakfast.
Leave a Reply