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How This Indian Food Helps Regulate Blood Sugar

Diabetes News


Barley Water For Diabetes: How This Wonder Drink Helps Regulate Blood Sugar

Barley water can be quite beneficial for diabetics. (Image Credit: istock)

Barley has made a major comeback in our lives. Also known as ‘jau’ in Hindi, this grain was quite popular during the olden days and is something that our grandparents used extensively in Indian food. Over the years, its usage has become quite low, but it’s only recently that we’ve started to reintroduce it in our diet. And why not? Barley has some incredible benefits to offer, one of which is that it helps manage blood sugar levels. Now, most assume that barely can only be used as a substitute for refined grains like white rice or all-purpose flour. Which is true, but there’s another way to consume it that is especially beneficial for managing diabetes: barley water.
Also Read: Barley Moong Dal Khichdi – A Power-Packed Meal To Keep Your Energy Level High

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Is Barley Water Good For Diabetics? | Barley Water Benefits

1. Regulates Blood Glucose Levels:

According to research, sipping on barley water can be beneficial for regulating blood glucose levels. Whole-grain barley in particular has been shown to be effective in achieving this in Indian food as it is rich in soluble fibre. This prevents sudden spikes or drops in glucose levels. As per a study conducted by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the blood glucose levels of type 2 diabetic patients who consumed barley were significantly lower than those who had white rice when tested three hours post-ingestion. That’s why many Indian recipes are being prepared with barley these days. 

2. Improves Insulin Production:

To manage diabetes, it is important to have good insulin levels. Insulin is a hormone produced by our pancreas that allows our body to use sugar. Several studies suggest that the consumption of barley water can help improve insulin production. This helps our body use it properly and regulates overall blood sugar levels.

3. Enhances Insulin Sensitivity:

Another issue that people suffering from diabetes face is insulin resistance. This occurs when our cells become less responsive to insulin. Barley is one of the common Indian foods which are high in fibre. Barley also contains certain bioactive compounds that can help increase our body’s response to insulin. According to the book ‘Healing Foods’ by DK Publishing House, “Barley water is a great source of fibre and beta-glucans, which help improve insulin resistance.”

4. Supports Digestive Health:

Barley water is also quite beneficial for digestive health. When your digestive system is healthy, it promotes better nutrient absorption and controls diabetes. As per the book ‘Barley for Food and Health: Science, Technology, and Products’ by Rosemary K. Newman and C. Walter Newman, “Barley water has been used as a home remedy for stomach-related issues and gastroenteritis for many years.”

5. May Lower Cholesterol:

Diabetics should make a conscious effort to keep their cholesterol levels in check. Not doing so can make them more susceptible to developing heart disease. Barley contains certain chemicals that help lower LDL cholesterol levels in the body. A study conducted by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) showed decreased LDL cholesterol in both men and women after adding barley to their diet. Many Indian recipes make use of this whole grain. 
Also Read: From Weight Loss To Detox: 7 Health Benefits Of Barley Grass Juice

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How To Make Barley Water?

  • To make barley water, you just need to boil two glasses of water with one tablespoon of barley. 
  • Add salt to taste and boil again for half an hour. Once done, strain the water and drink.
  • You can also squeeze in some lemon juice or add fennel seeds to make it flavourful.
  • Consume this water first thing in the morning, before meals, or right before you hit the bed. 

Barley, the prized Indian food, offers many health benefits. Include barley water in your diabetes diet to better manage it. However, remember to consult your nutritionist before making any major changes to your diet. Stay fit and healthy!



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Struggling With Diabetes? How Drinking Dry Ginger Water On An Empty Stomach Can Help

Diabetes News


Diabetes is a condition that affects millions worldwide, where the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels is compromised. Diabetes, a widespread health concern, occurs when the body struggles to maintain optimal blood sugar levels. Two main types of diabetes exist: type 1 and type 2. Type 2 diabetes, the more common form, typically develops due to lifestyle factors such as a poor diet, lack of exercise, and genetics. Managing diabetes requires vigilance, a balanced diet, and sometimes the aid of natural remedies. One such remedy gaining attention is dry ginger, celebrated for its potential to help control high blood sugar.
Also Read: 5 Best Morning Drinks For Diabetics To Add To Your Routine

Dry Ginger: A Natural Aid for Diabetes

Dry ginger has the potential to balance blood sugar levels. Photo Credit: iStock

Dry ginger, derived from the drying process of fresh ginger, offers a potential natural remedy for managing blood sugar levels. The off-white, powdered form of dried ginger has found its way into our kitchens, not just for its culinary prowess but also for its possible health benefits.
Also Read: Fruit Juices For Diabetics: Yes Or No? Here Are 3 Key Takeaways

Benefits Of Ginger For Diabetes:

1. Role of Ginger in Blood Sugar Control

A study published in the Journal of Ethnic Foods found that ginger consumption may lead to a reduction in A1C levels and fasting serum glucose levels. A1C is a test that measures average blood sugar levels over a few months, helping with overall diabetes control.

2. Ginger’s Potential Mechanism for Blood Sugar Control

Another study, published in the journal ‘Nutrients,’ proposes that ginger possesses a blood-sugar-controlling mechanism. Ginger may inhibit enzymes responsible for carbohydrate metabolism and improve blood biochemical parameters and lipid profiles. This mechanism has the potential to benefit individuals striving for blood sugar regulation.

3. Gingerols and Blood Sugar Management

The major active component of ginger, gingerols, is believed to improve glucose uptake into muscle cells independently of insulin. This action may assist in managing high blood sugar levels, as reported in the Iranian Journal Of Pharmaceutical Research.

Dry ginger water can be a good way to add this ingredient to your diabetes diet. Photo Credit: iStock

Aside from its potential in diabetes management, ginger offers a range of other health benefits. Macrobiotic Nutritionist and Health Practitioner Shilpa Arora highlights ginger’s advantages, including aiding digestion, treating cold and flu infections, and even assisting people with asthma. The anti-inflammatory properties of ginger are said to be comparable to potent antibiotics.
Also Read: Diabetes Diet: 10 Hot And Cold Drinks That Can Help Manage Blood Sugar Levels

Now that we understand the potential benefits of dry ginger for diabetes, let’s explore how to incorporate it into your daily routine:

Ginger Water Recipe for Diabetes Management:

Mix 2 grams of ginger powder into warm water. Add a pinch of salt if desired. Consume this ginger water in the morning on an empty stomach.

Incorporating this simple home remedy into your daily routine, when combined with proper medical guidance, may contribute to your overall well-being and diabetes management. However, consult with a healthcare professional before making significant dietary changes or adding new supplements to your routine.

Also Read: Why Moong Dal Is Great For Diabetes, And 8 Healthy Recipes For Your Diet

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.



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Diabetes Diet: How To Make Oats Khichdi To Manage Blood Sugar Levels

Diabetes News


Khichdi is the ultimate comfort food for all Indians. Whether we are exhausted after a long day at work, have an upset stomach, or simply crave something light and wholesome, khichdi has been a saviour for us on many such days. This one-pot dish is not only super easy to make but it is brimming with various health benefits too. The combination of rice, lentils and ghee provides you with carbohydrates and protein that help you keep full for a longer period of time. Not only this but khichdi is also considered to be suitable for people who are suffering from diabetes as it has a low glycaemic index. Considering this, here we bring you a delicious oats khichdi recipe that is ideal for a wholesome lunch meal. 

Also read: Diabetes Diet Tips: 5 Herbs And Spices That May Help Manage Blood Sugar

Oats, the main ingredient in this recipe, has high water and fibre content and may help in managing blood sugar levels. This oats khichdi makes for a nutritious meal and will keep you full for a longer period of time. To make this khichdi, all you need to do is cook oats, moong dal, tomatoes and onions in a pressure cooker along with flavourful masalas. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with yogurt. Take a look at the recipe below:

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Oats Khichdi Recipe: How To Make Oats Khichdi

To begin with the recipe, first, heat oil in a pressure cooker. Add cumin seeds and allow them to crackle. Add chopped onion, and cook till translucent. Now, add ginger and green chillies, and cook for a few more seconds. Add turmeric powder and red chilli powder, followed by tomatoes. Let them cook until tender.

Next, add all the vegetables and rinsed moong dal along with oats. Sauté for a few seconds. Add water and adjust the salt. Pressure cook for around 8-10 minutes. Once the pressure settles down, open the lid, serve hot and enjoy! 

For the complete recipe of oats khichdi, click here.

For more khichdi recipes, click here.

Try this simple recipe to manage blood sugar levels at home and share your experience in the comments section below.

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Control Your Diabetes Through Diet

Diabetes Info

If you want to manage your diabetes properly, you have to adjust your diet so that your glucose level is at a consistent level. This is not difficult to do if you know the right foods to eat and if you stick to regular eating schedule. By just planning ahead, these adjustments do not have to interfere with your way of life. This article will provide you with some tips on how you can easily manage your diabetes through good diet and healthy living habits.

Whenever you eat, your blood sugar level alters. The bigger the meal, the more your glucose level will fluctuate. This fluctuation can cause you symptoms like headaches and just an overall feeling of malaise. To minimize that from happening, consider eating five to six smaller meals instead of your typical three larger meals a day. When you eat smaller meals on a more frequent basis, you level out the sugar content in your blood stream and avoid that big surge and dip. Take some healthy snacks with you, like fruits and nuts, which can make a small meal in itself.

In fact, nuts are a good source of protein and healthy fats that do a good job in satisfying your appetite. Walnuts contain other anti-oxidants that are good for your healthy overall. Nuts are full of nutrients and should be incorporated as part of your regular diet.

When shopping for groceries, make sure that you read the ingredients on the labels. Do not just go by what the front of the box says. There could be hidden sugars, salts, and other ingredients that are not entirely healthy for you. Learn what some of the other names are for sugars, like high-fructose corn syrup, dextrose and maltodextrin.

Try to maintain a consistent caloric intake everyday. Avoid starving yourself one day and bingeing on another. This will just cause your blood sugar to go to extremes. Avoid skipping any meals because it will create a big imbalance in your glucose level.

If you are overweight, you should work on shedding some of that excess weight. One way to do that is by eating more slowly so that you will feel full faster. Eating slowly gives your food a chance to go down to your stomach and start digestion. Savor each bite of food and think about what you are chewing. Drink lots of water along with your meal to fill up your stomach. If you do this, you will naturally eat less without feeling hungry.

Look for meal ideas from numerous cookbooks with recipes specially created for diabetics. You can find many healthy and delicious ideas that are good for you and pleasing to your palate. Look on the web or browse the cookbook section in your favorite book store.

When you get a handle on your eating habits, you will find that managing your diabetes is not that hard. You do not have to alter your life in any drastic way. Just watch what you eat, and you can live a happy and normal life.