Cucumbers, bitter gourd and drumsticks are low-carb, non-starchy vegetables that help you regulate blood glucose levels
For those with diabetes, it is very important to manage your blood sugar levels at all times. Some of the best foods for people with diabetes are high-protein and low-sugar options—which regulate your glucose.
According to experts, figuring out the best foods to eat when you have diabetes does not have to be tough, though. Even though many times you may crave sweets, it is best to balance them out with a few foods that you can incorporate into your daily meals.
Bitter gourd
Bitter gourd, or karela, keeps your blood sugar levels down due to its high content of charantin and polypeptide-p—both of which act like insulin—and momordicin, which enhances glucose uptake. According to experts, these compounds not only spike your insulin sensitivity but also help your body utilise glucose for energy and reduce post-meal sugar spikes.
Also, apart from being a great vegetable for diabetes management, karela is also packed with vitamins A and C as well as iron and has no sugar at all.
You can either eat it with rotis and rice or make a juice and have it every morning.
Drumsticks
Also known as moringa, drumsticks have many benefits for those with diabetes due to their potential to regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. According to studies, drumstick extracts reduce blood glucose and increase insulin production.
Also, the low-glycemic nature of drumsticks and their high fibre content help aid in stabilising blood sugar levels.
Besides, isothiocyanates found in drumsticks also help reduce body weight and improve glucose tolerance. It is claimed that moringa plays a vital role in reducing the amount of sugar in the blood while also decreasing glucose and protein in the urine. Being naturally low in carbohydrates and packed with dietary fibre, drumsticks can be eaten as a standalone dish, mixed with dals, or made into soups, salads, and even paranthas.
Cucumbers
Cucumbers are a must-have for summers, as they are super hydrating and loaded with nutrients that keep your body naturally cool. However, this humble fruit is also a beneficial part of a diabetes management plan. They are low in carbohydrates and calories and have a low glycemic index, which means they do not cause a rapid spike in blood sugar.
Cucumbers are also packed with nutrients and offer hydration, making them a good addition to a diabetic diet.
Studies say phytonutrients in cucumbers - low in carbohydrates and non-starchy—make them one of the most effective plants for not only reducing blood sugar levels but also lowering the risk of hypoglycemia during a blood sugar drop. For those with type 2 diabetes, cucumber may be a helpful addition to their diet to moderate blood sugar levels more effectively.
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