A major health concern of today’s time is the increasing number of diabetic patients in India. Diabetes is a condition in which there is too much glucose (sugar) in the bloodstream. It is also referred to as high blood sugar or hyperglycemia. This condition is caused by a number of factors, including the body not being able to produce enough insulin or the body not being able to use insulin properly. So, it is important for people with diabetes or pre-diabetes to keep their blood sugar levels under control. Diabetic patients should be very careful, especially during the winter season. This is because cold climates can affect blood sugar levels, and one must be very careful. Here are some drinks that can help control high blood sugar levels this cold season, and their health benefits.
1. Warm water with lemon juice: Lemon helps improve insulin resistance and weight loss. Squeeze lemon juice in warm water and drink this in the morning on an empty stomach to reduce high blood sugar levels and also help in weight loss.
2. Herbal tea: These teas, such as chamomile, green tea or cinnamon tea are very rich in antioxidant properties, which helps to improve insulin sensitivity. A high-blood-sugar patient can sip herbal tea of their choice throughout the day instead of sugary drinks.
3. Cinnamon Spiced Hot Chocolate: Cinnamon is useful for lowering blood sugar. Hot chocolate also gives the body the vital antioxidants it needs. So one can add a pinch of cinnamon to 1 cup of unsweetened hot cocoa for a dessert or evening treat.
4. Ginger Tea: Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and helps with digestion. One can chop fresh ginger and soak its small pieces in hot water for some time. Then filter it and sip slowly after eating to help digestion.
5. Apple Cider Vinegar Water: This drink also helps lower blood sugar levels after a meal. One can make it by mixing one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in one glass of water. Those who want to control blood sugar levels can drink this drink before or after meals.
6. Turmeric Milk: Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties that improve insulin sensitivity. Mix one teaspoon of turmeric powder in warm milk and drink it before going to sleep.
7. Coconut water: This contains less sugar and provides both the hydration and electrolytes the body needs.
8. Vegetable juice: These juices such as melon, spinach or zucchini are fresh and can greatly aid in blood sugar regulation. One can prepare a juice of their favourite vegetables and sip it as a health drink or use it as meal replacement.
9. Aloe Vera Juice: This juice promotes improved digestion and blood sugar regulation. Extract the gel from fresh aloe vera, mix it with 1 glass of water, and drink it in the morning on an empty stomach.
10. Fenugreek Water: Fenugreek enhances insulin sensitivity and aids in blood sugar regulation. Soak the necessary quantity of fenugreek seeds in water for the entire night. Then, the next morning, brew some fenugreek seeds soaked in tea in warm water and drink it for breakfast.
