For people who have high Blood Sugar, constant dietary care is imperative for a healthy life. Consistently high blood sugar levels can lead to serious health problems, such as diabetes and heart disease. You need to be cautious about any factor that raises blood sugar levels, as well as focus on foods that help control or lower blood sugar. On that note, we’ll take a look a Chia Seeds, one of the foods that is said to have a positive effect on diabetes.

Chia seeds are immensely popular around the globe due to their numerous health benefits. Good heart health, bones and dental strength, gut-boosting powers, and more—there’s so much these little seeds can do for you. 

But what makes them truly special is the ability to minimize the risk of and deal with symptoms of chronic diseases—such as debilitating high blood sugar levels. After extensive research, scientists and nutritionists maintain that chia seeds can help people manage blood sugar and may even help diabetic patients manage their blood sugar levels effectively.

Nutritional Values Of Chia Seeds Affecting Blood Sugar 

First, understand this: what exactly is within chia seeds that makes these so effective?

A single serving of dried chia seeds—which is roughly 2 tablespoons—contains incredible nutrition:

• 140 calories, 
• 10 grams of fiber, 
• 5 grams of protein, 
• 12 grams of carbohydrates,
• and 9 grams of fat.

That’s the short version of the nutritional value of chia seeds. Getting into the more specific effects of each kind of nutrient, we know that:

Fiber content affects gut health…

Fiber improves digestion, maintaining metabolic rate and thus regulating blood sugar levels, as well as aiding weight control. The best part is that, unlike carbohydrates, fiber cannot be absorbed or broken down by the body, thus preventing sudden spikes in blood sugar levels. 

Healthy fats help protect cells…

A beneficial quality of chia seeds is that out of those 9 grams of fat, 8 grams are in fact heart-healthy fats! And these fats can be incredibly beneficial for individuals with high blood sugar. Chia seed fats contribute to HDL—also known as ‘good cholesterol’. HDL protects β-cells from the toxic effects of glucose. 

Protein is linked to insulin regulation…

High protein diets are often associated with liver health and the body’s capability to handle sugary foods. More specifically, protein has proven to be highly effective in combating insulin resistance. 

Benefits Of Chia Seeds For People With High Blood & Type 2 Diabetes

The above nutritional values show that while chia seeds don’t have a direct impact on reducing blood sugar levels, they do aid in managing it. Consuming chia seeds on an empty stomach won’t mess with your present blood sugar levels. However, chia seeds will offer the following benefits with respect to the prevention and management of high blood sugar and diabetes:

• Contain A Low Glycemic Index

Chia seeds are an excellent option for individuals with high blood sugar due to their glycemic index—which is 4. This places these seeds in the category of low-GI foods, which your body digests and absorbs slowly and effectively. As a result, you can consider chia seeds as a means of stabilizing blood sugar levels.

For women who are overweight and dealing with high blood sugar levels, the low glycemic levels in chia seeds offer even greater benefits. Additionally, numerous studies, comparing diets with and without chia seeds, conclude that the protein in these plays a significant role in regulating glycemic variability.

• Help The Gut To Digest Sugar Properly

With their abundant fiber content and other advantageous components, chia seeds affect the way food is processed in your gut. The high fiber and protein content in chia seeds work together to slow down digestion, preventing sudden spikes in blood sugar levels. This not only reduces the risk of developing diabetes but also helps minimize potential complications associated with the condition.

• Help Curb Hunger & Sweet Tooth 

You know that chia seeds are packed with fibers. They also contain fats—good ones at that. Naturally, this means that when you have a serving of chia seeds, these lead to a feeling of fullness. It may seem like a small amount to you, which is roughly two tablespoons of dried seeds (and you need to stick to limited intake to avoid side effects). 

However, this small amount expands well in your gut, keeping you feeling satisfied for a longer period of time. The protein in chia seeds can also help curb your hunger; studies prove that if you’re looking to feel fuller for longer, protein is the way to go as it surpasses carbohydrates and fats in terms of satiety.

• Combat Insulin Resistance 

Insulin resistance is a condition where your body becomes unresponsive to insulin. Given that insulin plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels, its resistance poses a significant threat to your health. Luckily, chia seeds contain healthy fats and protein. Both nutrients are natural allies in combating insulin resistance, which is why these have the potential to help stabilize blood sugar levels. 

Taking Chia Seeds During A Sugar-Conscious Diet 

Now that you understand how chia seeds aid blood sugar management, you should know that consuming these well is vital. Steer clear of store-bought chia-based desserts and snacks. The sugars and additives in these will hinder your efforts to maintain your blood sugar within recommended levels.

Instead, you can whip up a few simple chia-based recipes at home, without refined sugar or any other heath-adverse ingredients. Here are 5 easy and yummy ideas:

1. A smoothie is a popular medium for chia seeds. Make chia seed gel by soaking chia seeds in water. You can blend this mixture with your smoothie for a super-creamy drink, or fold it with a spoon in the prepared smoothie to enjoy the unique texture.
2. Sprinkle chia seeds online on your breakfast eggs or toast. However, since you’re taking chia seeds dry, make sure to hydrate to avoid digestive troubles.
3. You can make a chia seed pudding. Add chia seeds to milk or a milk alternative, along with honey or maple syrup. Refrigerate overnight (or at least 8 hours) to the seeds do their magic, and enjoy a guilt-free, gut-friendly dessert!
4. Go for refined sugar-free overnight oats with chia. You have the option to mix the seeds with the oats and enjoy the consistent creamy mixture in the morning. On the other hand, you can sprinkle dried chia seeds on ready oats in the morning for a crunchy twist.
5. Not a fan of creamy chia drinks and snacks? Not a problem; chia juice is just as delightful in juice! Soak a couple of spoonfuls of chia seeds in a glass of juice, and enjoy your fiber-rich, energizing drink!

Say Yes To Chia For Blood Sugar Control!

Chia seeds have gained popularity for their numerous health benefits, and it’s no wonder why. While not directly responsible for lowering presently high blood sugar levels, these little seeds affect the way your gut digests food and other organs process it. As a result, chia seeds are a must-have ingredient in your low-sugar or zero-sugar diet!

Chia Seeds & Blood Sugar Control: A Definitive Guide

For people who have high blood sugar, constant dietary care is imperative for a healthy life. Consistently high blood sugar levels can lead to serious health problems, such as diabetes and heart disease. You need to be cautious about any factor that raises blood sugar levels, as well as focus on foods that help control or lower blood sugar. On that note, we’ll take a look a chia seeds, one of the foods that is said to have a positive effect on diabetes.

Chia seeds are immensely popular around the globe due to their numerous health benefits. Good heart health, bones and dental strength, gut-boosting powers, and more—there’s so much these little seeds can do for you. 

But what makes them truly special is the ability to minimize the risk of and deal with symptoms of chronic diseases—such as debilitating high blood sugar levels. After extensive research, scientists and nutritionists maintain that chia seeds can help people manage blood sugar and may even help diabetic patients manage their blood sugar levels effectively.

Nutritional Values Of Chia Seeds Affecting Blood Sugar 

First, understand this: what exactly is within chia seeds that makes these so effective?

A single serving of dried chia seeds—which is roughly 2 tablespoons—contains incredible nutrition:

• 140 calories, 
• 10 grams of fiber, 
• 5 grams of protein, 
• 12 grams of carbohydrates,
• and 9 grams of fat.

That’s the short version of the nutritional value of chia seeds. Getting into the more specific effects of each kind of nutrient, we know that:

Fiber content affects gut health…

Fiber improves digestion, maintaining metabolic rate and thus regulating blood sugar levels, as well as aiding weight control. The best part is that, unlike carbohydrates, fiber cannot be absorbed or broken down by the body, thus preventing sudden spikes in blood sugar levels. 

Healthy fats help protect cells…

A beneficial quality of chia seeds is that out of those 9 grams of fat, 8 grams are in fact heart-healthy fats! And these fats can be incredibly beneficial for individuals with high blood sugar. Chia seed fats contribute to HDL—also known as ‘good cholesterol’. HDL protects β-cells from the toxic effects of glucose. 

Protein is linked to insulin regulation…

High protein diets are often associated with liver health and the body’s capability to handle sugary foods. More specifically, protein has proven to be highly effective in combating insulin resistance. 

Benefits Of Chia Seeds For People With High Blood & Type 2 Diabetes

The above nutritional values show that while chia seeds don’t have a direct impact on reducing blood sugar levels, they do aid in managing it. Consuming chia seeds on an empty stomach won’t mess with your present blood sugar levels. However, chia seeds will offer the following benefits with respect to the prevention and management of high blood sugar and diabetes:

• Contain A Low Glycemic Index

Chia seeds are an excellent option for individuals with high blood sugar due to their glycemic index—which is 4. This places these seeds in the category of low-GI foods, which your body digests and absorbs slowly and effectively. As a result, you can consider chia seeds as a means of stabilizing blood sugar levels.

For women who are overweight and dealing with high blood sugar levels, the low glycemic levels in chia seeds offer even greater benefits. Additionally, numerous studies, comparing diets with and without chia seeds, conclude that the protein in these plays a significant role in regulating glycemic variability.

• Help The Gut To Digest Sugar Properly

With their abundant fiber content and other advantageous components, chia seeds affect the way food is processed in your gut. The high fiber and protein content in chia seeds work together to slow down digestion, preventing sudden spikes in blood sugar levels. This not only reduces the risk of developing diabetes but also helps minimize potential complications associated with the condition.

• Help Curb Hunger & Sweet Tooth 

You know that chia seeds are packed with fibers. They also contain fats—good ones at that. Naturally, this means that when you have a serving of chia seeds, these lead to a feeling of fullness. It may seem like a small amount to you, which is roughly two tablespoons of dried seeds (and you need to stick to limited intake to avoid side effects). 

However, this small amount expands well in your gut, keeping you feeling satisfied for a longer period of time. The protein in chia seeds can also help curb your hunger; studies prove that if you’re looking to feel fuller for longer, protein is the way to go as it surpasses carbohydrates and fats in terms of satiety.

• Combat Insulin Resistance 

Insulin resistance is a condition where your body becomes unresponsive to insulin. Given that insulin plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels, its resistance poses a significant threat to your health. Luckily, chia seeds contain healthy fats and protein. Both nutrients are natural allies in combating insulin resistance, which is why these have the potential to help stabilize blood sugar levels. 

Taking Chia Seeds During A Sugar-Conscious Diet 

Now that you understand how chia seeds aid blood sugar management, you should know that consuming these well is vital. Steer clear of store-bought chia-based desserts and snacks. The sugars and additives in these will hinder your efforts to maintain your blood sugar within recommended levels.

Instead, you can whip up a few simple chia-based recipes at home, without refined sugar or any other heath-adverse ingredients. Here are 5 easy and yummy ideas:

1. A smoothie is a popular medium for chia seeds. Make chia seed gel by soaking chia seeds in water. You can blend this mixture with your smoothie for a super-creamy drink, or fold it with a spoon in the prepared smoothie to enjoy the unique texture.
2. Sprinkle chia seeds online on your breakfast eggs or toast. However, since you’re taking chia seeds dry, make sure to hydrate to avoid digestive troubles.
3. You can make a chia seed pudding. Add chia seeds to milk or a milk alternative, along with honey or maple syrup. Refrigerate overnight (or at least 8 hours) to the seeds do their magic, and enjoy a guilt-free, gut-friendly dessert!
4. Go for refined sugar-free overnight oats with chia. You have the option to mix the seeds with the oats and enjoy the consistent creamy mixture in the morning. On the other hand, you can sprinkle dried chia seeds on ready oats in the morning for a crunchy twist.
5. Not a fan of creamy chia drinks and snacks? Not a problem; chia juice is just as delightful in juice! Soak a couple of spoonfuls of chia seeds in a glass of juice, and enjoy your fiber-rich, energizing drink!

Say Yes To Chia For Blood Sugar Control!

Chia seeds have gained popularity for their numerous health benefits, and it’s no wonder why. While not directly responsible for lowering presently high blood sugar levels, these little seeds affect the way your gut digests food and other organs process it. As a result, chia seeds are a must-have ingredient in your low-sugar or zero-sugar diet!

The post Chia Seeds & Blood Sugar Control: A Definitive Guide appeared first on Wingman Magazine - The 'Dark Web' of Personal Development.