According to International Diabetes Federation, 463 million people are affected by diabetes around the world], alarming much? It has also estimated the number to go up to 153 million by 2045! A chronic disease characterized by increased blood sugar in the body, diabetes is an irreversible health condition. But you can always manage it with specific tweaks in your diet and lifestyle. Doctors and health experts have advised many tips to control blood sugar levels. While sugary treats, trans-fats and high-calorie are strictly out of bounds, a balanced diet rich in fibre, carbs and protein is suggested.
Besides all these, many natural ingredients in our kitchen pantry can help manage the condition. Neem leaves are one herb that comes loaded with several nutrients that can help combat many severe health conditions, including diabetes. Brimming with antioxidants, flavonoids and anti-inflammatory compounds, neem controls the spike in glucose levels. One can include neem in various ways; while chewing neem leaves is one of the best ways, neem leaf powder is another excellent way. It has been found that neem leaf powder can control diabetic symptoms on non-insulin-dependent diabetics, as per the journal Studies on Ethno-Medicine. You can get neem leaf powder in the market, or you can sun-dry and blend the leaves in a powder at home.
Here we have a neem tea recipe that is perhaps the best way to begin your day and manage blood sugar levels. Not only is it good for diabetes, but it is also an overall detoxing affair. Here’s how you can make a steaming cup of this super healthy drink at home:
Neem powder: ½ tsp
Water: 1 cup
1. Boil the water with neem leaves in it.
2. Stir, strain and enjoy. The tea will be bitter, so that you can add a hint of cinnamon to it for flavour.
3. Before adding or excluding anything from your diabetes diet, always consult an expert or your doctor.