Your blood sugar may spike and crash due to the food you eat, but fortunately, you can keep your blood glucose levels in check by making wise choices about what you consume. Certain foods actually help to lower your blood sugar; others have the opposite effect and should be avoided if possible. Check out this list of seven surprising foods that help lower blood sugar, along with some tips on how to eat them so they do more good than harm.
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Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a great food to eat to help with blood sugar levels. They are part of the nightshade family, which includes potatoes and eggplants, and many people find they can’t eat these vegetables without experiencing high blood sugar. However, tomatoes have been found to lower the risk of diabetes and heart disease. Tomatoes contain an alkaloid called lycopene that is thought to be the key for reducing inflammation in the body, which has been linked to metabolic syndrome-related conditions like diabetes.
Fish
Fish is a great source of protein and omega-3s, which help lower blood sugar levels. Fish is also high in vitamin D and magnesium, two nutrients that play a big role in regulating the insulin response in your body.
Dark Chocolate
Contrary to popular belief, dark chocolate can actually help lower blood sugar levels. One study found that dark chocolate contains a compound called epicatechin which is proven to stimulate insulin production, something many diabetic patients struggle with. The more you eat the better it gets – so go ahead and indulge!
Cinnamon
Cinnamon helps with blood sugar regulation because it aids in the production of insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. In fact, studies show that cinnamon can lower fasting and post-meal blood glucose by up to 29%. Simply sprinkle some on your food or drink a cup of cinnamon tea for an easy way to reduce your risk of diabetes and keep your blood sugar at healthy levels.
Tea
One of the best things you can do for your blood sugar is drink tea. Tea has a component called polyphenols that helps improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation. Not only does it help with blood sugar, but it also provides a plethora of other health benefits including protection from cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. There are many different types of tea to choose from which each have their own unique set of polyphenols to choose from.
Berries
Berries are one of the best foods for lowering blood sugar because they contain fiber, which slows digestion and keeps blood sugar from spiking. Berries also have high levels of antioxidants that help protect cells from damage.
