6 Herbs and Fruits to Help Manage Diabetes
Diabetes is a medical condition in which your blood sugar or glucose levels exceed the normal limit. Primarily, blood sugar is responsible for supplying the required energy to your body. Hence, you need to ensure that your blood sugar level is within the normal range to avoid the risk of developing diabetes and heart diseases.
According to the American Diabetes Association, before eating, your ideal blood sugar level should be between 70-130 mg/dL. However, it should be less than 180mg/dL after two hours of eating.
The main aim of the treatment for diabetes is to keep the level of sugar as normal as possible. Along with certain medications and a healthy diet, you can also choose to consume a few herbs and fruits. Some herbs and fruits that are excellent to reduce blood sugar levels are:
1. Gymnema Sylvestre or Gurmar
Gurmar, which means sugar crusher, are known for their chemical properties that can help bring sugar levels down. This has been demonstrated across various experimental and clinical studies. As a treatment for diabetes, Gurmar helps keep blood sugar levels near normal. Further, it also reduces the dependency on insulin medications.
2. Coccinia Indica
Coccinia Indica helps keep blood sugar levels low. The chemical properties of Coccinia Indica regulate the breakdown of starch. Thus, it prevents the sudden surge of blood sugar after the consumption of carbohydrates. Furthermore, it also helps in protecting the vital organs of the body from the adverse effects of diabetes.
3. Neem
Neem or Azadirachta indica is great to manage blood sugar levels. Primarily, the bitter leaves and seeds are used in the treatment of diabetes. Moreover, neem can be used by itself or with a mixture of herbs for better results.
4. Mulberry or Morus Indica
To keep the blood sugar level in control, mulberry leaves are used widely. Various research studies have reported that regular consumption of mulberry leaves for at least fifteen days can reduce blood sugar levels by around 40 percent. Mulberry leaves correct the lipid abnormalities of the body. Further, it improves the antioxidant storehouse and strengthens the immune system.
5. Bitter Gourd
The anti-diabetic properties of bitter gourd are well documented. Bitter gourd is extensively used for diabetics. Typically, the anti-diabetic properties of bitter gourd help in increasing insulin secretion of the body. It does this by improving the functions of beta cells in the pancreas.
6. Eugenia Jambolana
Typically, the seeds and fruits of Eugenia Jambolana or Java plum are used as a treatment for diabetes. It is known for reducing the level of blood sugar significantly in diabetics. It has been observed that Eugenia Jambolana stimulates the secretion of insulin. It also helps in the prevention of kidney dysfunction in diabetics.
Although these herbs and fruits are effective, it is advised to consult a doctor before consuming such foods. Moreover, these remedies cannot work as a stand-alone treatment; professional help is necessary.