New Delhi: India has the second largest number of people with diabetes which is at 70 million, next only to China which has about 110 million, making it the biggest lifestyle epidermic. Once diagnosed, there is no cure for Diabetes. Keeping the blood sugar levels in check becomes the whole objective of managing diabetes. Precautions, medications, and eating restrictions will become the norm.
One can surely add some taste in the food they eat and make it a bit interesting. People suffering from diabetes just need to take some precautions before choosing what to eat. The snack we choose for eating should not contain trans-fat and should be low in carbohydrates, says a homeopathic physician, Dr. Keshav.
Here are our top 6 snack picks for diabetic patients
1. Khaman Dhokla
Khaman Dhokla, a vegetarian food item that originates from Gujarat not only tickles taste buds, but also helps regulate blood pressure and control blood sugar levels. Gram flour being rich in iron prevents and eliminates iron deficiency.
The cooking procedure requires fermentation of gram flour which enhances its nutrition value and preserves healthy biological value which in turn is beneficial for gut, says Dr. Keshav.
2. Vegetable Idli
Ditch usual rice or suji idli by giving it a bit of a makeover and relish vegetable idli. Vegetable idli is not only light on the stomach, but also makes for a good snack option. It is a good source of fiber, vitamins, iron, potassium and folates. It helps in weight loss and builds immunity.
Also Read: Does Drinking 100 Per Cent Fruit Juice Increase The Risk Of Diabetes?
3. Khakhra Pizza
Combine Italian and Gujarati food and savour khakra pizza. Methi khakra is rich in both calcium and iron. Whole wheat khakhra contains more dietary fibers than other staple cereals. These help maintain blood sugar levels.
One can top up the khakra with green leafy vegetables, carrot as they are a good source of vitamins and protect damage from long term diabetes, suggests Dr. Keshav.
4. Spicy Moong
Tasty and nutritious due to high levels of protein and folates make moong a preferred choice for diabetic patients. It aids in managing blood sugar levels with its fibre rich property which also makes it easy to digest. Also, not to forget, this pretty facile to cook moong is a source of instant energy.
5. Vegetable Poha
Where there is vegetable, there is vitamins and proteins. Poha is lite on stomach and is easy to digest. It is also gluten free which makes it even more wholesome and nutritious. This quick snack is rich in vitamin B, iron and protein making it a wiser option for diabetic patients.
Also Read: Diabetes: What A Daily Diet Of A Diabetic Should Be Like
6. Moong Dal Dahi Vada
Moong dal vada and curd taste great together as a snack. Curd is known for its ability to lower blood sugar levels, partly due to the probiotics it contains. It is good for gut health as it is fermented and healthy for digestion.
Moong dal vada is a common Indian snack and it is both delectable and healthy. Curd is rich in protein, which is known for helping keep blood sugar levels under control, tells Dr. Keshav.
(About the expert:
Dr. Keshav, MD (Hom.), is a homeopathic physician practising for more than 5 years in Ghaziabad. He has been awarded with Dr. Hahnemann Award in 2017 for his meritorious services rendered for well-being of patients.)