Lemons are rich in nutrients; they are rich in vitamins A, C, potassium, calcium and magnesium. Also, it contains calories, carbohydrates, dietary fibre, fat and protein. But do you know that it also helps in controlling diabetes?

If you are diabetic and looking for ways to control sugar spikes, add lemon to your diet. The abundant soluble fibre and vitamin C found in citrus fruits are very beneficial.

A recent study showed how lemon juice can lower blood glucose. It is a low GI (glycaemic index) food and if you include lemon in your diet in the right way, it can help in reducing post-meal blood sugar levels apart from keeping inflammation under control.

How can lemon affect people with diabetes and what should be taken care of? Nutritionist MeghaMukhijaji is telling us about this. MeghaMukhija is the Chief Dietician and Founder at Health Mania since 2016.

According to Meghaji, 'Lemon is a rich source of potassium and vitamin-C. The amount of calories in it is very less. It is considered a diabetic super food by the American Diabetes Association. But first of all, let us know what the benefits of eating lemons for diabetes are.

Benefits of consuming lemon in diabetes

1. Glycemic Control

The glycemic index (GI) is an indication of how food affects blood sugar levels. It is measured on a scale of 0 to 100, with 100 being pure glucose. The higher the GI in a food, the higher the blood sugar level.

Lemon juice when consumed with a high GI food may slow down the conversion of starch into sugar and thus lower the GI of the food.

For example, adding lemon juice to rice can help reduce post-meal blood sugar levels.

1. Prevents Obesity

According to a 2013 study, the bioactive components of citrus fruits may contribute to the prevention and treatment of obesity.

People who are obese are more likely to develop diabetes because there is additional pressure on the body's ability to use insulin properly to control blood sugar. So adding lemon helps in both.

5 Ways To Include Lemon In The Diet

First way

Drinking a glass of lemonade before a meal helps in reducing the post-meal blood sugar level within 45 minutes. This has been proven by proper research.

Second way

Add to salads and have them before meals. The combination of fibre, vitamin C and potassium gives excellent results in managing high blood pressure and diabetes.

Third way

Eat lemon squeezed on high carb and high GI items like rice, pasta, potatoes etc. This helps in reducing the blood sugar level.

Fourth way

Squeeze lemon juice on chicken, lentils, and fish for better absorption of protein and reduce the rise in blood sugar after a full meal.

Fifth way

Add it to green tea, black tea, and homemade mocktails.

Dosage - It is recommended to take 1 to 2 lemonade daily.

Caution

  • Excessive consumption of lemon can damage the enamel of the teeth.
  • Lemon peels contain oxalates, which in excess can cause calcium oxalate kidney stones.
  • Excessive lemon consumption can trigger acid reflux and heartburn.

If you are also troubled by diabetes and want to keep the sugar level under control, then definitely include it in your diet. Do share and like this article, as well as comment. To read more such articles related to diet, stay connected with Harzindagi.

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DISCLAIMER

Your skin and body are different just like you. We endeavour to bring you accurate, safe and expertly verified information through our articles and social media handles but still consult your doctor before trying any home remedy, hack or fitness tip.