5 Foods and Herbs to Lower Blood Sugar
Nearly half of the American population is falling into a diabetic or pre-diabetic range. Crazy, huh? That's why it is critical that we look at the things we have control over, aka lifestyle choices. More specifically, this means the foods we are putting in our bodies. Having a lower blood sugar level decreases the likelihood of heart disease, kidney failure, circulatory issues, blindness, nerve damage and even long term health problems like dementia. Thus, choosing to make preventative lifestyle choices through our foods could be the simple game-changer that we all have been looking for.
Try including these 5 foods and herbs in your diet to maintain and/or lower your blood sugar levels.
1. Berberine
Found in turmeric, goldenseal, philodendron, and several other plants, this compound can help lower blood sugar and metabolism. A few of the known benefits of berberine are its ability to improve insulin resistance, promote insulin secretion, and decrease glucose absorption in the intestines.
2. Nuts
From pistachios to almonds and pecans, various studies have shown that nuts are among the most notable blood sugar lowering food choices. The fiber found in nuts can help regulate your blood sugar while the protein can help maintain metabolism.
3. Neem Leaf
A native of India, neem leaf has been said to improve insulin sensitivity and circulation. Various studies have provided that this safe medicinal herb can reduce blood sugar and decreases need for insulin injections by 20-50%.
4. Gymnema
This blood sugar lowering plant is also found in India and has been used in treating diabetes for over 2000 years. Gynnema is said to decrease a human's ability to taste "sweet" as well as stimulate the production of insulin in the pancreas.
5. Blueberries
A delicious treat and a nutritious addition to anyone's diet, this fruit is a diabetic's friend. The fiber and antioxidants in blueberries help your body process glucose for energy more efficiently. This can help decrease insulin sensitivity and manage blood sugar. You can also try apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, fenugreek, garlic, tart cherries, avocado and malabar gourd!
