Maintaining a balanced blood sugar level is essential for the body, not just for individuals with diabetes. Discover here seven natural foods that can help counteract fatigue, lack of concentration, and high blood sugar.
Constant fatigue, lack of concentration, and persistent tiredness – elevated blood sugar levels have consequences not only for people with diabetes.
For those dealing with consistently high blood sugar levels, incorporating the following seven foods into their diet can be a natural way to counteract these issues.
Garlic – A Powerhouse of Health
Garlic positively impacts blood sugar levels by reducing them, resulting in less conversion of food into fat. Additionally, garlic cloves contribute to improved cholesterol levels by reducing bad LDL cholesterol.
Regular consumption of garlic not only lowers the risk of diabetes but also decreases the likelihood of heart-related issues. Another benefit is its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
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Lentils – Preventing Rapid Insulin Spikes
Lentils, like all legumes, are slow to digest. This characteristic prevents a sharp increase in insulin levels, unlike sugary beverages or other common side dishes like potatoes and rice.
Opting for lentils instead of half the portion of rice can reduce blood sugar by up to 20 percent. Applying the same principle to replace potato sides can result in a reduction of up to 35 percent.
Moreover, the high protein content in lentils stimulates the production of short-chain fatty acids, which help lower existing elevated blood sugar levels.
Cinnamon – Beneficial Spice for Blood Sugar
Cinnamon has a blood sugar-lowering effect as it aids cells in faster sugar absorption, thereby reducing blood sugar levels.
Cinnamon can enhance the flavor of various meals and is not limited to festive seasons. Particularly popular in Indian cuisine, this spice adds a special touch to many savory meat dishes.
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Extra Virgin Olive Oil – A Mediterranean Classic
Various studies confirm the blood sugar-lowering effect of extra virgin olive oil. Similar to garlic, it contributes to reducing harmful LDL cholesterol.
About 70 percent of extra virgin olive oil consists of unsaturated, healthy fatty acids. Additionally, it contains numerous antioxidants.
Green Vegetables – A Healthy All-Rounder
Low in calories and carbohydrates, green leafy vegetables provide the body with minimal sugar. The plant fibers, being challenging to digest, also offer prolonged satiety.
Spinach, kale, and similar vegetables are rich in Vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, and fiber. With their nutritious content and long-lasting satiating effect, they play a crucial role in managing blood sugar levels and minimizing the risk of diabetes.
