Fruit juice is not your foe: Study names the one beverage that lowers blood sugar levels within 3 hours

Fruit juices are not recommended for diabetes patients due to the high sugar and low-fibre content that can spike blood glucose in no time. However, according to a new study, there is a particular variety of fruit juice that can mitigate blood sugar within a few hours.

Key HighlightsType-2 diabetes is a state wherein the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or the body becomes resistant to the hormone thereby restricting cells from absorbing glucose efficiently and raising blood sugar levels.Although rich in nutrients, fruits are high in fructose as well – naturally-occurring sugars – that are also likely to spike blood sugar levels.GI index defines the rate at which food breaks down and enters the bloodstream in the form of sugar.

Type-2 diabetes is a state wherein the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or the body becomes resistant to the hormone thereby restricting cells from absorbing glucose efficiently and raising blood sugar levels. Characterised by insulin resistance and spiking blood sugar levels, type-2 diabetes can be detrimental to health if not managed timely. For better management of the condition, experts recommend following a no-sugar and low-carbohydrates diet rich in proteins, healthy fats, essential minerals, vitamins, and complex carbs.

When it comes to following a low or no-sugar diet, fruits are the most controversial condiment. Although rich in nutrients, fruits are high in fructose as well – naturally-occurring sugars – that are also likely to spike blood sugar levels. And fruit juices are not recommended for diabetes patients due to the high sugar and low-fibre content that can spike blood glucose in no time. However, according to a new study, there is a particular variety of fruit juice that can mitigate blood sugar within minutes. Keep reading.

Can fruit juice lower blood sugar levels?

According to a study published in the journal Elsevier, the short-term effects of pomegranate juice on blood sugar levels were explored. Experts assessed the effect of juice intake on blood sugar in type-2 diabetes patients three hours after ingestion. The direct effect of fresh juice was demonstrated in the study. The blood samples of 85 participants with diabetes were taken after a 12-hour fast and then one and three hours after intake of 1.5ml of pomegranate juice per kilogram of body weight.

The results demonstrated a dip in blood sugar levels and even insulin resistance in type-2 diabetes patients three hours after juice ingestion. The effect was more potent in patients who had low blood sugar levels at the start. Although the results were similar for both men and women, it was less effective in elderly patients.

Are there other ways of lowering blood sugar levels?

For better management of blood glucose levels, it is recommended to go for low-glycemic index (GI) foods – foods that do not raise blood sugar levels drastically upon consumption. This defines the rate at which food breaks down and enters the bloodstream in the form of sugar. Some of the most common high GI foods include refined sugar, processed foods, desserts, sugary carbonated drinks, potatoes, white bread, and white rice. On the other hand, low GI foods include whole grains, oats, vegetables, and complex carbs like oats.

Additionally, getting ample workouts – two and half hours of exercise – every week can help with diabetes management.

The symptoms of type-2 diabetes to watch out for

Before going for a blood sugar analysis, watch out for the following signs to evaluate your risk of type-2 diabetes:

Frequent urination Unexplained weight loss Wounds that don’t heal easily Itching around private parts Excessive thirst Exhaustion

This dry spice from your mum's masala box helps regulate cholesterol and blood sugar

Key Highlights

• Often used in tadka, tej patta is famed for its fragrance, flavour and medicinal properties
• Diabetic patients often struggle with fluctuating blood sugar levels that often go abnormally high
• Consuming 1-3 grams of bay leaves per day for a 30-days period helped in lowering blood sugar

New Delhi: Modern day lifestyles have caused several health disorders and conditions that warrant urgent attention. With more people developing obesity, diabetes and bad cholesterol levels, the incidence of health problems has grown drastically over the years. And while pharmacists and physicians continue to offer medical support for relief from symptoms, only a few turn to natural remedies like introducing diet alterations. And in an Indian household, where the kitchen is without a doubt the most fragrant corner, one never realises how the solution to spiking blood sugar and cholesterol can be managed with just some basic ingredients – some of them hidden in the spice box.

The box of health benefits

Your mum’s spice box could be small, yet special trove of treasure full of flavours and even health benefits. The little contains within that contain essentials like salt, turmeric, coriander, cumin and even amchur also house dry spices like black peppercorns, cloves, green and black cardamom and other masalas that enhance the flavour and nutrient profile of your meals that include vegetables, curries, pulaos and meat. While these spices are blessed with properties of better immunity and metabolism, there’s one that regulates blood sugar and cholesterol like no other – tej patta (bay leaf).

Often used in tadka, tej patta is famed for its fragrance, flavour and medicinal properties. Enriched with essential minerals, tej patta houses vitamin A and C, folic acid, calcium, magnesium and potassium. And for those struggling with diabetes and cholesterol, a touch of this spice could work wonders. Several studies published over the years reveal how much bay leaf intake can impact blood sugar levels.

Tej patta for blood sugar management

Diabetes is a chronic condition that develops over time and often goes unnoticed. When you consume too much of refined or simple sugars that break easily into the bloodstream, the pancreas releases insulin to regulate the same. However, over time, your body can become either insulin resistant or the pancreas might fail to produce the required amount – thereby resulting in diabete

Tej patta for cholesterol

A heart-friendly spice, bay leaves contain organic compounds like caffeic acid and rutin that strengthen capillary walls and regulate cholesterol levels – increase good cholesterol levels and eliminate bad cholesterol levels.

s.s.

vomiting in pregnancy

1. Try Changing Eating Patterns

• For morning nausea, eat toast, cereal, crackers, or other dry foods before getting out of bed.
• Eat cheese, lean meat, or other high-protein snack before bedtime.
• Sip fluids, such as clear fruit juices, water, or ice chips, throughout day. Don’t drink lots of fluid at one time.
• Eat small meals or snacks every two to three hours instead of three large meals per day.
• Don’t eat fried, greasy, or spicy foods.
• Avoid foods with strong odors that are bothersome. Or eat foods cold or at room temperature.