As the number of people having diabetes is increasing every day, there has been an increasing demand to find ways to manage this chronic condition. People are switching to herbal or ayurvedic ways of managing their sugar levels as it comes with lesser side effects. One herb that can help in managing a person’s blood glucose levels is basil leaves or Tulsi.
Let us try and understand how Tulsi is beneficial for a person having diabetes.
How Can Tulsi Leaves Help in Managing Your Sugar Levels?
Tulsi leaves can help to stabilize a person’s blood sugar levels. Basil leaves are known to contain hypoglycemia properties which can help in lowering a diabetic person’s sugar levels and avoid further complications related to diabetes.
Basil leaves or tulsi are also known to reduce the risk of high cholesterol which is a risk factor for diabetes. With your cholesterol in check, you can also avoid hardened arteries which can lead to a stroke.
Other Benefits Of Tulsi
Tulsi leaves or basil leaves are beneficial for both diabetic and non-diabetic people. They offer numerous benefits which are listed below-
- Strengthens Your Immunity
- Helps in combating viral diseases and infections
- Improves pancreatic beta-cell function
- Improves insulin secretion
- Increases the uptake of glucose in your body
- It is anti-inflammatory in nature and it can be used to treat a number of diseases.
How to Include Tulsi Leaves In Your diabetic diet?
The stems, seeds and leaves of the basil plant are edible and therefore, they can be used in a number of delicacies. They are known to enhance and preserve the properties of your dish and they also add a little extra flavor.
You can chew Basil leaves every morning. You can also boil them in water and consume them as a part of your everyday herbal tea. Add them to some of your dishes to get that extra flavor.
Other Natural Remedies To Manage Your Blood Sugar Levels
A number of other medicinal herbs/ plants can help you manage your diabetic condition. Some of them have been listed below-
Indian Gooseberry/ Amla– It is known for regulating carbohydrate absorption. You can eat it raw or have it in the form of juice. It can help in stimulating your pancreatic cells and lowering your sugar levels.
Mango Leaves– One way in which you can consume mango leaves is by drying them and adding the paste to a glass of water. You can drink this mixture every morning.
Turmeric Powder– Turmeric can significantly help in managing your blood sugar levels. You can have it by mixing it with dried amla powder and honey for the best results.
Curry Leaves- You can have curry leaves once or twice a day if you wish to manage your diabetes in an effective manner.
Jamun – It can help in your insulin production and therefore, help you manage your diabetes. You can also chew Jamun leaves to reap the best health benefits.
Measures to Control Your Sugar Levels
There are some steps that are crucial to keeping your blood sugar levels under control.
Consume a Fibre-Rich Diet
As a diabetic, you are advised to follow a diet that is high in fiber and low in carbohydrates. It should also be rich in protein and all the essential nutrients. You should avoid sugary and fried foods at all costs. You can switch to diabetes-friendly ingredients and prepare your food in a healthier way.
Have a Regular Workout Regime
One of the key ways in which you can keep your sugar levels under control is by having a regular workout regime. Apart from managing your diabetic condition, exercise is also good for your physical and mental well-being.
Keep a Tab On Your Sugar Levels
It is necessary that you check your sugar levels on a regular basis using a smartphone-enabled glucometer. After knowing whether your sugar level is in the high, low or controlled range, you will be able to make the right changes to your diet and lifestyle.
Diabetes management might seem tough initially, but if you incorporate all the changes in your everyday routine, it will become hassle-free. Follow all the recommendations given by your health coach if you want to avoid diabetes-related complications in the long run.
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