Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. This condition will cause blood sugar levels to increase. For diabetics, a healthy diet is a must, to help them maintain the body's blood sugar levels. As quoted from Healthline, here are some foods that can help lower your blood sugar.

1. Broccoli contains sulforaphane compounds that can help lower blood sugar levels. Study results show that the compound has a strong anti-diabetic effect, and itcan also increase insulin sensitivity.
2. Seafood, including fish and shellfish, contains protein, ‘healthy’ fat, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help maintain blood sugar levels. These nutrients can help slow down the digestive process, prevent blood sugar spikes, and provide a longer ‘full’ effect.
3. Pumpkin has been used as a traditional medicine for diabetics for a long time. Pumpkins are rich in fibre and antioxidants that are good for blood sugar regulation. High in polysaccharides, pumpkin extract is known to help significantly lower blood sugar levels. Not only that, but pumpkin seeds are also rich in healthy fats and protein that are good for maintaining blood sugar levels.
4. Nuts. Many studies have proven that nuts can help lower and maintain blood sugar levels.
5. Okra, a fruit rich in polysaccharides and flavonoid antioxidants, is known to help lower blood sugar levels. Study results have proven that okra has a strong anti-diabetic effect.
6. Flaxseeds can help lower blood sugar levels, thanks to their high fiber and ‘healthy’ fat content
7. Grains and lentils are rich in nutrients such as magnesium, fibre, and protein, which can help reduce blood sugar levels. Their high soluble fiber and starch content can help slow down the digestive process and can increase blood sugar response after meals.
8. Kimchi and sauerkraut are fermented foods that are rich in probiotics, minerals, and antioxidants, which can help increase insulin sensitivity.
9. Chia seeds can help control blood sugar by increasing insulin sensitivity, which can decrease the risk of diabetes.
10. Kale is a ‘super food’ which is rich in fibre and flavonoids. Both of these compounds are known to help lower blood sugar levels and increase insulin sensitivity.
11. Avocado can improve blood sugar regulation, thanks to its high content of ‘healthy’ fats, fibre, vitamins, and minerals.

Text by Anggie Triana
Stock photos from Pixabay

Source:

• Healthline - The 17 Best Foods to Lower (or Regulate) Your Blood Sugar (2020). https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods-to-lower-blood-sugar#1, 13 August 2020.