Millets may help slow blood sugar rise in diabetes patients
CNN Central News & Networks / ITDC India ePress / ITDC News / Agencies, Bhopal:
Diabetes patients need to take special care with their diet. Many people completely give up rice and wheat after being diagnosed with the disease, but experts say this is not necessary. According to Dr Rajesh Khadgawat, professor in the Department of Endocrinology at AIIMS Delhi, patients can include coarse grains, or millets, such as bajra, jowar and ragi in their diet. The fibre present in them helps slow the pace at which blood sugar rises after meals.
Fibre helps
The fibre present in millets slows the process of digestion. This means carbohydrates in food break down gradually and glucose reaches the blood at a relatively slower pace. As a result, the risk of a sudden spike in blood sugar after eating may be reduced. Bajra and jowar rotis, as well as ragi flour and porridge, can be included in the diet.
No need to give up rice and wheat completely
According to Dr Khadgawat, diabetes patients do not need to stop eating rice and wheat completely. Portion size and the overall balance of the diet are more important. The quantity of white rice can be reduced and partly replaced with millets. Other grains can also be mixed with wheat flour to make rotis.
Quantity and cooking method also matter
Experts say millets are also a source of carbohydrates. Therefore, eating them in excessive quantities can raise blood sugar. Very highly polished or heavily processed millets may have less fibre. For better results, eat less processed grains in appropriate quantities and include green vegetables, pulses, salad and protein-rich foods in meals. Patients should decide their diet according to their needs in consultation with a doctor or dietitian.
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