Diabetes is a medical condition wherein your blood sugar levels are constantly high. This abnormality will eventually lead to serious health problems such as damaged nerves, kidneys, and eyes. For this reason, keeping your blood glucose at a normal level is crucial. But, don’t worry. There are various ways to control your blood sugar. Typically, you can achieve this by having an active lifestyle and eating the right kinds of carbohydrates. Another way to help keep your diabetes in check is to consume the following herbs and spices for diabetes.
1. Ginger
Ginger is not only a well-liked spice in the culinary industry but in the health and wellness department, as well. In fact, a lot of people use this yellow-colored food to strengthen their bodies, relieve some discomforts, and manage ailments like diabetes.
As presented in one study, when diabetic patients took ginger (3 grams) every day for eight weeks, the researchers observed a decrease in the patient’s blood sugar levels.
However, keep in mind that consuming high amounts of ginger on a daily basis can result in undesirable effects such as an upset stomach and heavy menstrual period. Thus, you should limit your intake to four grams per day.
Furthermore, this spice can also increase the effects of blood thinners and other drugs. For this reason, you have to consult your doctor before taking this healing spice, especially if you’re taking medications.
2. Fenugreek
Many people are probably not familiar with fenugreek seeds. But, this bittersweet product is one of the most well-researched herbs and spices for diabetes.
In fact, various studies revealed that fenugreek seeds contain several substances that can decrease your blood sugar levels and enhance your insulin sensitivity such as fiber and 4-hydroxyisoleucine (amino acid). Moreover, this wonderful spice can also help prevent heart diseases by lowering your cholesterol levels.
With that, using this natural remedy is simple. You can soak fenugreek seeds (1 to 2 tablespoons) in one glass of water overnight. Then, you can drink the mixture in the morning – on an empty stomach. Another effective method is to add this flavorful spice to your delicious vegan dishes such as methi gobi, mushroom masala, and vegetable curry.
3. Cloves
As you know, cloves have numerous healing properties like relieving pain and swelling. Aside from that, you can also use this flavorful spice to decrease blood sugar levels. But, that’s not all. Cloves can also prevent diabetic complications like heart diseases.
In one study, four groups of diabetic patients consumed varying amounts of cloves (0, 1, 2, and 3 grams) for 30 days. When their blood was analyzed, those taking clove supplements had a decrease in glucose, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and total cholesterol levels. As for the group that didn’t consume the spice, the researchers didn’t notice any changes.
4. Sage
In this list, sage is one of the most widely-used herbs and spices for diabetes. This is not surprising because the herb is a great addition to various recipes. But, there’s more. Sage also possess anti-diabetic effects that resemble metformin – a popular drug prescribed for type 2 diabetes. However, keep in mind that the herb’s effects are not as strong as the drug. As such, you should only use sage as a supplement and not as a replacement for your medication. Furthermore, you also need to closely monitor your blood sugar levels when using this aromatic herb.
5. Holy Basil
Holy basil is another herb you can use to prevent or manage diabetes. Basically, researchers revealed that this plant has compounds that can boost insulin secretion and reduce blood glucose levels. Like the other products in this list, holy basil can also help lower triglycerides and LDL levels.
6. Chamomile
The last product in this list of herbs and spices for diabetes is chamomile. As you know, drinking chamomile tea can provide several health benefits. But, how does this herbal infusion help manage your blood sugar levels?
Basically, the anti-diabetic effects of chamomile are due to quercetin. In fact, researchers believe that this powerful antioxidant has an impact on the enzymes that participate in the diabetic response. The best part is that drinking chamomile tea can also relieve your stress and help you sleep at night.
Overall, adding these healthful products in your diet can certainly help in managing your blood sugar levels. However, you have to consult your doctor before taking any of these herbs and spices for diabetes. Remember, consuming these foods may lead to very low levels of glucose, which is also dangerous. Your doctor can adjust your medicine’s dosage to avoid endangering your health.
Sources:
- Ginger (NCBI)
- Fenugreek (NCBI)
- Cloves (Eurek Alert)
- Chamomile (NCBI)
- Sage (NCBI)
- Holy Basil (Michigan Medicine)
