Diabetes: The 59p Christmas spice that can help lower blood sugar levels… – The Sun

PEOPLE who have diabetes can struggle to keep their blood sugar levels under control.

When you’re diabetic your body can struggle to produce enough insulin or the insulin isn’t effective.

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Experts said that there is one particular spice you should focus on this festive season to help keep your blood sugar levels in checkCredit: Getty

With type 1 diabetes, a person’s pancreas produces no insulin, but in type 2, cells in the body become resistant to insulin, so a greater amount of insulin is needed to keep blood glucose levels within a normal range.

But experts have found that a cheap Christmas spice could actually help lower your blood sugar levels and help you manage your diabetes.

A study published by experts at the American Diabetes Association found that eating just a small amount of cinnamon a day can help regulate your blood sugar.

It’s important to note that just one ingredient alone won’t do this and that you need to maintain a healthy/balanced lifestyle and monitor your glucose levels if you’re a diabetic.

Keeping a healthy, balanced diet, not smoking and making sure you get enough exercise are all key.

Published in Diabetes Care, the experts said that 1, 3, or 6 g of cinnamon per day reduces serum glucose, triglyceride, LDL cholesterol, and total cholesterol in people with type 2 diabetes.

They said that this suggests that the inclusion of cinnamon in the diet of people with type 2 diabetes will reduce risk factors associated with diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

They explained that people with type 2 diabetes are at a heightened risk of cardiovascular disease.

“Although the causes of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases are multifactorial, diet definitely plays a role in the incidence and severity of these diseases.

“The dietary components beneficial in the prevention and treatment of these diseases have not been clearly defined, but it is postulated that spices may play a role.

“Spices such as cinnamon, cloves, bay leaves, and turmeric display insulin-enhancing activity in vitro”, the said.

The experts also added that botanical products can improve glucose metabolism and the overall condition of individuals with diabetes not only by hypoglycemic effects but also by improving lipid metabolism, antioxidant status, and capillary function.

ALL THE TRIMMINGS

WW nutritionist Jess O’Shea said we all tend to overindulge at Christmas, but for people living with diabetes, it can be a tricky period to navigate, with blood sugar busting sweet treats available at every turn and an endless stream of canapés, not to mention your mum/auntie/gran’s homemade Christmas pudding.

She …….

Source: https://www.thesun.co.uk/health/17070115/diabetes-cheap-christmas-spice-lower-blood-sugar/