One of the most common lifestyle disease nowadays, diabetes is a metabolic
disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels in the body. Lifestyle and
dietary changes are highly recommended for diabetic patients after the onset of
the condition.
Here are 6 super foods recommended by Ayurveda to help manage Diabetes.
Bitter gourd
Being rich in plant insulin, bitter gourd is highly recommended for decreasing
high blood sugar levels. It also contains essential compounds which aids in the
absorption of glucose. Drinking bitter gourd juice daily is hailed beneficial for
diabetic patients. Bitter gourd can also be added in the daily diet through dishes
and curries.
Amla
One of the richest source of Vitamin C, amla helps regulate the function of
pancreas to maintain blood glucose levels in balance. Amla can be eaten raw or
made into juice and consumed mixed with bitter gourd juice.
Fenugreek seeds
Possessing hypoglycemic properties, fenugreek seeds helps reduce blood
glucose levels significantly. It is also found beneficial for improving glucose
tolerance and to stimulate secretion of glucose-dependent insulin. Add
fenugreek seeds in cooking or soak 2 tbsp. of fenugreek seeds in water
overnight and drink that water and eat the seeds the next morning. Ground
fenugreek seeds and turmeric can also be taken with a glass of milk twice daily.
Drumstick leaves
Drumstick or Moringa oleifera leaves are helpful in maintaining healthy blood
sugar levels, while also boosting one’s energy. The leaves contain nutrients that
aids in increasing the insulin secretion in the body. It is also rich in antioxidants
and possesses anti-inflammatory properties. Moringa leaves can be added to the
daily diet by steaming, added in salad or in other dishes.
Jamun
Jamun or Indian blackberry is considered a major anti-diabetic food in
Ayurveda. Along with the rich antioxidant properties, it contains jamboline, a
chemical which helps slow down the diastatic conversion of starch into sugar.
Jamun can be eaten raw, its seeds can be added in lukewarm water in powdered
form and consumed. Chewing of jamun leaves is also considered beneficial for
preventing the conversion of starch into sugar.
Triphala
The combination of three fruits – amlaki, bibhitaki and haritaki; triphala is a
powerful antioxidant which is found effective in lowering the blood sugar
levels. A decoction made out of triphala and turmeric can be taken daily to
manage diabetes.