5 Herbs and Spices that Fight Diabetes

Diabetes is a rising health concern in the Western world. For those who have been diagnosed with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes, maintaining normal blood sugar levels is both important and an ongoing struggle. But it is possible, so long as one keeps close tabs on their diet.

Thankfully, there are a number of herbs and spices that can help a diabetic keep their blood sugar levels normal while maintaining a healthy body weight…



1. Cinnamon

Cinnamon is one of the world’s most popular spices. This widely available spice makes an excellent addition to many common dishes, from pancakes to oatmeal to toast.

But cinnamon also contains bio active components that help diabetics lower their blood sugar levels. In fact, research has shown that consuming just a few grams of cinnamon each day can both normalize blood sugar and lower LDL (or bad) cholesterol. It can even help to raise HDL (or good) cholesterol levels.

2. Fenugreek

If you’re a diabetic, you should consider adding fenugreek, a relatively unknown herb, to your diet as soon as possible. That’s because fenugreek—which can be acquired in flour form—can help improve glucose tolerance, lower blood sugar levels, and improve one’s cholesterol.

Although fenugreek is often consumed in its flour form, it can also be acquired as seeds. If this is the case, soak the seeds in water and then drink the water on an empty stomach. Of course, consult a doctor beforehand.

3. Ginger

Ginger makes an excellent and flavorful addition to many popular dishes, like stir fry. But it’s also helpful to diabetics looking to control their blood sugar levels. In fact, research has shown that daily consumption of just three grams of ginger (in capsule form) can help people with type 2 diabetes lower their cholesterol, maintain blood sugar levels, and keep a healthy body weight.

If you’re not interested in taking ginger capsules, try adding two to three cups of ginger tea to your diet. Ginger also adds a unique flavor to many vegetable-heavy dishes.

4. Turmeric

Turmeric, the bright yellow spice that can often be found in Indian food, offers an excellent way to lower blood sugar levels. It’s also a proven anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that’s good for the heart and can even assist in weight loss. As if that isn’t enough, studies have shown that turmeric can help patients suffering from kidney-related issues.

Turmeric makes an excellent addition to justabout any savoury dish but it can also be taken as a supplement. Just talk to your doctor beforehand.

5. Garlic

Where would the cooking world be without garlic? This incredibly flavourful herb makes an excellent addition to many dishes from all around the world, including spaghetti, stir fry, even hamburgers.

But eating garlic is also an excellent way to lower blood sugar levels. That’s because garlic is a roven anti-diabetic that contains sulfur components capable of helping defend against oxidative damage. When consumed regularly, it can help people with diabetes maintain healthy blood sugar levels and even lower their cholesterol.

source:http://www.activebeat.com/