Tips to lower your blood sugar level from your kitchen

Living with diabetes can be a struggle. But regardless of whether you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, one thing is clear – To lead a quality life, you have to make changes to your daily routine.

As the primary caregiver of a diabetic in my family, it’s been a long and hard journey of learning and unlearning how to provide the best possible care to a loved one. I’ve had to conduct a lot of research and have spent years trying to find the best ways to manage the disease and keep its worst symptoms in check. Going through this trial and error and watching my beloved family member struggle with this horrible condition has been educational.

One thing I’ve discovered through it all is you can actually lower your blood sugar levels using ingredients you can find in your kitchen!

Born and raised in India, it’s no surprise that, like most Indians, I’ve always been an advocate of home remedies. I firmly believe that no matter what ails you, the answer lies in your kitchen – And that’s where I looked to help my family member cope with the disease and keep his blood sugar level in control.

So here’s all the wisdom I’ve gathered over the years of experimentation to lower your blood sugar level from the comfort of your home. I hope it helps!

Home remedies to manage your blood sugar level

Probiotics

Probiotics are a great way to manage your blood sugar level. Studies show that fermented foods full of probiotics can help reduce blood sugar and insulin resistance.

Anything from kefir to kimchi, yoghurt with active live cultures, or sauerkraut can help.

And great news for Indians, popular fermented South Indian dishes like dosas and idlis are excellent for the gut and delicious!

Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a powerhouse ingredient – Studies have shown that having a spoonful of apple cider vinegar every day can help avoid blood sugar spikes.

Other studies have shown apple cider vinegar could help avoid metabolic disorders.

Simply mix a spoonful of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water and have it before or after a meal.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a common ingredient found in most kitchens. It’s also a superfood that’s full of anti-inflammatory goodness, and it tastes great!

Studies have found that it can help break down carbs in your digestive tract, lowering blood sugar level and increasing insulin production.

Personally, I saw great results from eating cinnamon every day. And since it’s a natural ingredient with no side effects, no harm, no foul, right?

Fenugreek seeds

Fenugreek seeds are said to be great for hormonal and metabolic health, and this superfood can significantly help manage your blood sugar level.

All you have to do is soak a spoonful of fenugreek seeds in a glass of water every night, strain the water in the morning, and drink it first thing on an empty stomach.

And this magic water is even great for your skin and hair!

Magnesium-rich foods

Finally, as a diabetic, do yourself a massive favour and include magnesium-rich foods in your diet – They help regulate your blood sugar level!

Magnesium-rich foods include dark leafy greens, beans, whole grains, avocados, pumpkin seeds, tuna and bananas.

You could also consult your doctor and take magnesium supplements, but if you start including magnesium-rich food in your daily diet you should get enough magnesium without them.

Moving forward

These tips aren’t intended to be a replacement for the actual treatment you might be receiving as a diabetic. But these simple ingredients and remedies can go a long way toward helping you manage your sugar.

And when combined with lifestyle changes (like getting some exercise, reducing your carbohydrates, eating more fibre, and focusing on your mental health), you can make significant improvements to your quality of life.

Just remember, take it one step at a time, and take it easy – At the end of the day, consistency is more important than trying to do everything at once.

Good luck and good health!