Maintaining optimal blood sugar levels is essential for overall health, particularly for individuals managing diabetes or those predisposed to the condition.
While medications and physical activity play vital roles, dietary choices also significantly impact blood sugar regulation.
Here, we’ll explore five nutritious Nigerian foods renowned for their potential to lower blood sugar levels.
Bitter Leaf:
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Bitter leaf, locally known as “Onugbu” in Igbo and “Ewuro” in Yoruba, is a staple in Nigerian cuisine and is esteemed for its blood sugar-lowering properties.
This leafy green vegetable is rich in antioxidants, such as flavonoids and polyphenols, which enhance insulin sensitivity and mitigate blood sugar fluctuations.
Bitter Kola
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The effect of bitter kola on diabetes are quite astounding.
It has been proven that bitter kola can regulate blood sugar levels in blood by reducing and normalising it, with prolonged use.
Those who suffer from the negative effects of elevated blood sugar can find some relief with bitter kola.
Okra:
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Okra, referred to as “Okro” in Nigeria, is a versatile vegetable boasting numerous health benefits, including its ability to aid in blood sugar management.
High in fiber, okra slows down glucose absorption, thereby preventing rapid spikes in blood sugar levels.
Unripe Plantain:
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Unripe plantain, a common starchy vegetable in Nigerian cuisine, possesses a low glycemic index (GI), ensuring gradual blood sugar release.
Additionally, it provides ample fiber and potassium, further contributing to blood sugar stability.
Beans:
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Beans are celebrated in Nigerian cuisine for their effectiveness in regulating blood sugar levels.
Rich in both protein and fiber, beans aid in blood sugar control by promoting gradual glucose absorption.
Moreover, their complex carbohydrates are digested slowly, preventing abrupt blood sugar spikes.
Garden Egg:
Garden eggs, alternatively known as “Eggplant” or “African Garden Egg,” are low-calorie, high-fiber vegetables known to support blood sugar regulation.
Packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, garden eggs enhance insulin function and mitigate blood sugar fluctuations.
Incorporating these Nigerian foods into your diet can contribute significantly to managing blood sugar levels effectively.
By prioritizing nutrient-rich options like bitter leaf, okra, unripe plantain, beans, and garden eggs, individuals can harness the power of natural foods to promote optimal blood sugar control and overall well-being.
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