Diabetes refer to a group of metabolic diseases that result in elevated blood sugar levels. According to WHO, the global prevalence of diabetes among adults over 18 years of age has risen from 4.7% in 1980 to 8.5% in 2014. Diabetics need to be extra cautious about their diet and lifestyle, if your blood sugar levels are consistently high, you could be at risk of organ failures, obesity and poor heart health. But things are not as grim as you think, wise dietary choices and a regulated lifestyle can make diabetes management a relatively easy affair.
Here are some spices that may help you manage your diabetes better
1. Turmeric: Haldi or turmeric is extensively used in traditional eastern medicine to treat a variety of woes. Off late is it is earning it has been under the scanner of western scientists too. According to a study published in the online journal 'Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine' in the year 2013, curcumin, the active compound found in turmeric may decrease the level of glucose in blood, as well as other diabetes-related complications. Diabetics should drink a cup of turmeric tea i.e. add a pinch of pure turmeric in a glass of water allow it to boil and drink. This also works very well for any inflammation in the body, which is common with diabetics.
2. Fenugreek Seeds: Fenugreek powder(methi dana powder) made of fenugreek seeds is also one of the most effective remedy to manage blood sugar levels. Fenugreek seeds are also loaded with fibre that help in slowing the digestion process and thus regulates the absorption of carbohydrates and sugar. You could consume about one teaspoon of fenugreek powder (methi dana powder) with lukewarm water early morning before you start your day, this may help keep a check on blood sugar levels.
3. Cinnamon: According to a study published in the American Diabetes Association cinnamon helps improve glucose and lipids of people with type 2 diabetes. Macrobiotic nutritionist and Health Practitioner Shilpa Arora says that cinnamon and it's medicinal benefits have been popular since time immemorial. "The anti- diabetic compounds in cinnamon reduce the rate at which glucose enters our body. It improvises glucose uptake by the cells and helps with blood sugar spikes. Regular dosage reduces fasting blood sugar as well as elevated levels of cholesterol in the body. The dosage recommended for diabetics is between 3-6 grams a day of the cinnamon powder"
Include these spices in your diabetes diet. Make sure your diet is full of fibre rich fruits and veggies. Before making any major changes to your diet, always consult a certified expert.