Diabetes is a major health threat that the world is facing today. According to the International Diabetes Federation, approximately 537 million adults, between the age of 20 and 79, are affected by this lifestyle disease, which unfortunately is irreversible. The data further claims that the total number of people living with diabetes is projected to rise to 643 million by 2030 and 783 million by 2045. Thus, experts from across the globe recommend maintaining a healthy lifestyle and food habits to keep our blood sugar levels in check.
While there are many suggestions, tips and dietary recommendations that one can follow to manage diabetes, everything goes for a toss once winter arrives. After all, the season is one where you get to gorge on a range of decadent seasonal foods all around. As soon as the winter season arrives, our kitchen pantry too sees a change and stocks more of warm and soothing ingredients to sail through the cold weather outside.
During the chilly season, many of us indulge in greasy and yummy foods around this time of the world. In this nippy weather, we tend to crave all things sugary, oily, and decadent, all of which slow down the process of metabolism. This further leads to the fluctuation of sugar. If you are a diabetic, make sure to stock your kitchen with ingredients that help manage blood sugar levels. Food plays a major role in managing a healthy lifestyle, and the right kind of food, eaten in the right amount and at the right time can help us go a long way.
Health experts suggest including seasonal vegetables, spices, and herbs in our everyday diet, as they are brimming with all the essential nutrients that are important to keep different health issues at bay. One such healthy spice is methi (fenugreek seeds). Full of fibre, methi seeds tend to slow down the digestion process, and regulate the absorption of carbohydrates and sugar. Besides, the antioxidants, anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties in methi seeds help promote immunity, warm us up from within and provide overall nourishment to the body.
The best way to reap in the benefits of methi seeds is through a soul-soothing cup of tea. Here’s the recipe:
- Grind methi seeds into powder.
- Add one teaspoon of methi powder in one cup of water and boil.
- Add some honey (optional) for added sweetness, but of course, in moderation.
- You can also add regular tea leaves and other herbs to it.
- Cover the lid and let it infuse for the next three minutes.
- Strain in a cup and drink.
While this may be a great way to manage blood sugar levels, make sure to consult your doctor before adding anything new to your diet.