6 Indian Spices That Naturally Help Control Blood Sugar

Indian spices are an essential part of every household kitchen. But did you know that these spices have Ayurvedic benefits too? Spices in traditional times were not only used as a kitchen item, but also had various medicinal benefits. Especially for sugar patients, it acts as a natural support in keeping it in balance. 

In this blog, we will learn about how you can include those spices in your day-to-day life to avail its maximum benefits. The value it holds for your health and the benefit of adding it to your diabetic diet. So, let’s get started! 

6 Ayurvedic Spices for Blood Sugar Control

1. Cinnamon

This Ayurvedic spice contains a bioactive compound that helps to lower sugar levels. In a study done to measure the effectiveness of cinnamon on blood sugar, it was found that, among other spices, cinnamon was most beneficial for diabetics. 

Its consumption also reduces the risk of heart-related diseases. Cinnamon is also known to imitate the effect of insulin, which helps in the efficient movement of sugar from the bloodstream to cells. It was specially found to be good for people who have obesity-related prediabetes.

2. Fenugreek

Fenugreek is known to be rich in soluble fibre, which slows down sugar absorption in the intestines and further enhances insulin activity. It also contributes towards better sugar regulation by managing HbA1c levels well. 

In a study done to measure the efficiency of fenugreek, it was found that 100 grams of defatted fenugreek seed powder added to the daily diet of patients with diabetes reduced their fasting blood glucose levels and improved glucose tolerance.

3. Turmeric 

Turmeric contains curcumin, which helps to control sugar spikes. It also improves insulin sensitivity, which further regulates blood sugar better. It is a useful herb that helps lower LDL cholesterol and keep oxidative stress in control, thus reducing the risk of sugar spikes. 

Clinical research done to measure its efficiency shows that supplementing turmeric (commonly 500-2000 mg curcumin daily for 8-12 weeks) alongside standard diabetes treatments like metformin showed these improvements, making turmeric a helpful adjunct in managing type 2 diabetes.

4. Black Pepper 

Black pepper contains piperine, which helps control blood sugar. It is also quite popular for supporting the pancreas function, which helps in better sugar regulation. This prevents unhealthy sugar buildup in it. 

Black pepper is commonly eaten in foods. But it is likely unsafe when taken by mouth in large amounts during pregnancy. It stimulates Agni, which promotes the breakdown and assimilation of carbohydrates better, thus reducing excessive sugar accumulation in the blood. 

5. Cumin

Cumin is found to have a positive and significantly meaningful effect on glucose of serum glucose and lipid profile. It has good antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, beneficial for diabetics as it keeps the sugar risk in check. 

Cumin also helps improve glycemic control and increase serum levels of adiponectin in patients with type 2 diabetes. A study, published in the Journal of Medicinal Food, found that cumin extract improved insulin sensitivity in human subjects with prediabetes.

6. Cloves 

Cloves contain eugenol, widely known for its strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This keeps the oxidative stress in check, one of the reasons why blood sugar becomes unstable.

Research says that another study in 2019, people with and without diabetes who took 250 mg of clove extract daily for 30 days showed significantly lower blood glucose levels. Therefore, it’s suggested to take an intake of 1 to 3 g of cloves per day under caution. 

Conclusion

Spices have always been an essential part of every Indian kitchen. But little did people know that it was medicine in disguise. All these spices have such properties that provide various health benefits. For people with diabetes, regular consumption of these herbs can help with natural sugar control. Be it insulin sensitivity or controlling sugar cravings, spices help manage it all. 

People Also Asked  

1. What are some spices that lower blood sugar?

Some of the most popular spices that are also an essential part of the household include black pepper, cloves, cumin, and turmeric. These spices help improve the body’s digestion and improve insulin sensitivity, which keeps sugar in balance. 

2. What are some spices to avoid with diabetes?

Spices are good to be included in a diabetic diet. But it’s recommended to avoid those spice mixtures or condiments with added sugars, and instead consume potent spices like cinnamon, turmeric, ginger, chilli, and black pepper in moderation to avoid any side effects.

3. What are some herbs & spices considered good for diabetes?

In Ayurveda, herbs and spices are considered to be quite valuable due to their health benefits. Some spices that you can consider including are Cloves, turmeric, cinnamon, and fenugreek. These spices contain bioactive compounds that support better blood sugar control and improve metabolic health in diabetes.

4. How to use turmeric for diabetes?

You can use turmeric by including it in your cooking. Mix turmeric powder into warm milk or teas, or add it to soups, stews, and curries, or make turmeric pastes to utilise its maximum benefits.