7 vegetarian foods to lower blood sugar in just 7 days

Thanks to a stressful lifestyle and erratic eating habits, the problem of blood sugar, or diabetes, has become very common. And when it comes to blood sugar management, a balanced blood sugar level helps maintain steady energy levels throughout the day, preventing fatigue, mood swings, and sudden hunger pangs. It supports better brain function, sharper focus, and improved memory. Lower blood sugar also protects the body’s blood vessels, nerves, kidneys, and eyes from damage caused by high glucose levels over time. And in this process of naturally lowering blood sugar, foods and diet habits play a key role. Diana Licalzi & Jose Tejero, registered dietitian & exercise physiologist, recently shared a post on Instagram where they mentioned that the right choices can make a difference in just 7 days. Here are 7 foods that help your body become more insulin sensitive and keep glucose steady.

As per their post, okra is packed with soluble fiber which helps slow down sugar absorption and prevent big spikes.
How to consume: While one can have okra water in the morning for maximum benefits, it is mostly enjoyed as a side dish, where okra pieces are cooked in mustard oil along with onion and minimal spices.

In the post they have mentioned that it is a fiber-rich whole grain (beta-glucan!) that supports gut health and smooths out glucose swings.
How to consume: Barley can be easily used to make one-pot meals like khichdi along with lentils and vegetables. If you are a porridge lover, it can be used to make upma with spices, curry leaves, and veggies. Another smart way to use barley is to make hearty soup with barley groats, vegetables, and sometimes chicken or mushrooms.

This seasonal cruciferous vegetable is also rich in sulforaphane, which lowers inflammation and supports insulin activity.
How to consume: Simply toss cauliflower florets in a hot pan with garlic, onions, bell peppers, and soy sauce. Add a dash of black pepper and lemon juice for freshness. One can also make Gobi Masala. It is a comforting dish where you cook cauliflower with tomatoes, onions, and spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander for a comforting home-style curry. It is best served with rice or roti.

It is a creamy delight which offers a good combo of fiber and healthy fats that keep digestion slower and blood sugar more stable.
How to consume: The best way to consume avocado is to mash and spread it on a sourdough toast, squeeze some lime and pepper and enjoy it for breakfast. One can also make salad with it. Pair it with leafy greens, quinoa, corn, beans, and grilled chicken. Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice and enjoy. And else, you can blend 1/2 avocado with spinach, almond milk, banana and honey and enjoy.

As per their post, mushrooms are low in carbs, high in antioxidants, which is great for reducing inflammation linked to insulin resistance.

How to consume: One can add them to sandwiches, soups, or sauteed ones go well in salads as well.

It is a plant protein that supports lean muscle, making your body more efficient at using glucose, states their post.
How to consume: Add to soups, rice bowls, or stir-fries with soy sauce and veggies. And for breakfast, one can blend into smoothies for extra protein or scramble it with turmeric and veggies. One can also crumble or grill tofu and top it on salad with greens and light dressings.

In the post, they have mentioned that this beverage is loaded with catechins that enhance glucose metabolism and boost fat burning.

How to consume: Boil 2 cups of water, dip in a green tea bag and let it steep for 5 minutes. Remove the tea bag, add lemon and honey and enjoy.
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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article—is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.