Green leaves are rich in chlorophyll and many other nutrients that are beneficial for health. Studies have shown that the leaves of some plants are highly effective in reducing high blood sugar levels or hyperglycemia. Fluctuations in blood sugar levels can lead to several health problems which is why it is important to keep the blood sugar levels under control.
Apart from making changes in lifestyle choices, taking medications, and exercising regularly, you can also include certain herbs and leaves daily in your diet to manage blood sugar levels.
Tulsi leaves
Tulsi leaves improve the pancreatic beta-cell function and secretion of insulin which helps in managing diabetes naturally. A study published in 2017 revealed that tulsi or basil leaves reduce levels of blood sugar and help diabetic patients manage diabetes symptoms such as hypertension, weight gain, and high cholesterol. Consuming tulsi leaves daily can be highly effective for diabetic patients.
Fenugreek leaves
These leaves are packed with tons of anti-diabetic properties and enhance insulin sensitivity thereby reducing the tendency of the body to absorb glucose. A few studies claim that consumption of 10 gms of fenugreek leaves after soaking them overnight in warm water daily can bring a big improvement in blood sugar levels, especially in patients with Type 2 diabetes.
You can also add fresh fenugreek leaves in parathas, dosas, besan, cheelas, curries, rotis, and parathas.
Moringa leaves
Moringa or drumstick leaves have insulin-like properties and help lower blood sugar levels. These leaves also have anti-inflammatory properties that fight inflammation, and free radicals and thus protect damage to proteins and DNA. Studies have shown that damaged DNA or protein indicates the onset of diabetes.
Instead of buying extract of Moringa leaves or pills, try to directly use Moringa leaves from the tree for confirmed benefits.
Curry leaves
These leaves are rich in a special type of fiber that contributes to lowering blood sugar levels. These leaves encourage the body to produce an adequate amount of insulin thus keeping the blood sugar levels in check. Adding a handful of curry leaves to dal, or snacks is a good way of introducing curry leaves in your diet daily.