A healthy lifestyle and correct dietary habits are commonplace in expert recommendations for diabetics. This challenge increases in the winter, when a decrease in physical activity causes the metabolism to slow down. Moreover, the cold increases the consumption of calories, which the body requires in order to warm itself. These factors negatively affect the blood sugar level.
Spices, which have been used by humans for thousands of years, are known for their medicinal properties. A study published this year in The Journal of Nutrition1 found that herbs and spices high in polyphenols (the active substances in plants) affect the intestinal bacteria. This study included 54 overweight men, 45 years old on average and with high blood sugar and/or lipid levels. The subjects received three doses of spices and herbs: 0.5 grams per day, 3.3 grams per day, or 6.6 grams per day. These included cinnamon, ginger, cumin, turmeric, rosemary, oregano, basil and thyme. As a result, there was a change in the microbiome of the subjects. For example, the levels of Ruminococcaceae bacteria increased in the subjects who consumed the highest amount of the spices.
Prof. Ariel Rebel, Director of Medicine at Kadimastem, which develops mature cells (from embryonic stem cells) to cure diabetes: “Spices help absorb sugar in the intestine, help introduce glucose into cells and affect insulin in the pancreas. The three most important components for health and happiness are low pressure, sleep healthy and well and proper nutrition. Therefore, it is also recommended for healthy people not to spike their sugar levels and to make sure that the release of insulin is at a moderate rate. In diabetic patients, it is important to pay special attention to balanced sugar levels. Ariel predicts that cellular healing, (implantation of islets of beta cells of the pancreas new) will allow in the near future to balance sugar levels in patients with type 1 diabetes. Revel also points out that compared to insulin injection, cell therapy will not lead to hypoglycemia.”
Rebel explains that the study (randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind pilot study) examined the combination of herbs and spices into the average American diet and indicated that the spices changed the composition of the intestinal bacteria in adults at risk of heart disease. Further research is needed to examine the metabolic consequences (eg glycated hemoglobin, cholesterol, triglycerides) of these bacterial changes.
The following five herbs and spices slow the rate of sugar absorption and may keep the glycemic index low. The hope is that spices will help maintain a normal blood sugar level.
Coriander seeds: Studies have found that coriander seeds help increase insulin production, improve metabolism and stabilize blood glucose levels. Coriander helps the digestive system and promotes proper absorption and assimilation of sugar, resulting in a noticeable drop in blood sugar levels. The presence of ethanol in these seeds is effective in reducing blood glucose. In addition, you should take them in the morning right after waking up.
Coriander seeds (Photo: Yeh’ach)Greek fenugreek/fenugreek: a daily dose of 10 grams of Greek fenugreek seeds soaked in hot water helps control type 2 diabetes. The spice contains fiber that helps slow down the digestive process, further regulating the absorption of carbohydrates and sugar. You should drink fenugreek seed water before bed or in the morning to enjoy their benefits to the fullest.
Greek fenugreek or fenugreek (photo: Yeh’ach)Cinnamon: According to the findings, published in the journal Diabetes Care, cinnamon may help improve blood sugar and cholesterol levels in type 2 diabetics. Cinnamon is considered to have an insulin-mimicking action. Another study by the American Diabetes Association states that cinnamon, when taken in the right amount, may help reduce the blood glucose level by 18-29% and also lowers the risk factors associated with type 2 diabetes. It is recommended to add a pinch of cinnamon powder to a glass of warm milk and drink.
Cinnamon (Photo: Yeh’ach)Turmeric: The active compound in turmeric is known to balance blood sugar levels. Several studies have shown that turmeric can help increase insulin sensitivity, and prevent weight gain. It is also full of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. These antioxidants help fight free radicals that can cause oxidative damage in the body. You should add half a teaspoon of turmeric powder to a glass of warm milk and drink it.
Turmeric (photo: Yeh’ach)Curry leaves: contain a good amount of fiber, which is responsible for slowing down digestion and thus helps maintain the blood sugar level. The herb contains antioxidants such as vitamins, beta-carotene, etc., which are supposed to inhibit a variety of diseases related to oxidative damage from free radicals, including type 2 diabetes. According to the study, published in DiePharmazie – an International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, curry leaves also contain properties Antihyperglycemic drugs known to be effective in controlling blood glucose levels in the body. It is recommended to consume 8-10 fresh curry leaves first thing in the morning.
Ali Curry (Photo: Yeh’ach)Spices are natural, inexpensive and easy to use. The effect of the spices depends on the amount consumed as well as the availability of the active ingredients in them, so it is difficult to determine the dose that must be consumed in order to get the desired effect. It is generally accepted to consume spices in a small amount to improve flavors, one that is an integral part of the daily nutritional intake. Adding spices can be used as a tasty and healthy way to maintain a healthy body, in addition to a varied and balanced menu.