It is an ideal thirst quencher you are looking for in scorching day. It is a miracle potion for those looking shed some extra pounds. It has also been your go-to drink after a nasty hangover. You guessed it, we are talking about a glass of the versatile and ever-so lemon water. The refreshing beverage is low-calorie delicious alternative to your sugary and aerated beverages. This is one of the prime reasons why experts recommend drinking lemon water to diabetics. Diabetes is a condition characterised by elevated blood sugar levels. Diabetes currently affects over 425 million people worldwide. It is not easy to reverse the condition. Lack of proper care, medication and late diagnosis can make diabetes management even tougher. Your diet plays a crucial role in managing your blood sugar levels. Diabetics should refrain from refined carbohydrates and take foods and drinks that are high on fibre and antioxidants. A plain glass of lemon water may also make a great addition to your diabetes diet. Here's how.
(Also Read:5 Vegetables You Must Include In Your Diabetes Diet)
Diabetes Management: Why Should Diabetics Drink Lemon Water Regularly?
Lemon water may not directly impact your blood sugar levels and cause it to come down, but it can surely help prevent untimely spikes. The easy to make beverage is very low in carbohydrates and calories, and keeps you hydrated, which is very essential for diabetics to ensure. Diabetics are at risk of dehydration because higher than normal blood glucose depletes your body of fluids. Lemon is packed with soluble fibres, which do not break down easily and ensure slow release of sugars in the blood stream. Soluble fibres also help keep the heart healthy by regulating cholesterol and stabilising blood pressure. Lemons are abundantly loaded with vitamin C. American Diabetes Association dubs citrus fruits like lemon, oranges and grapefruit as "Diabetes Superfood." Lemons are full of fibre, vitamin C, folate and potassium, which would help benefit a healthy diabetic diet. A study published in the journal 'Advances in Nutrition' revealed that naringinen, a chemical compound found in lemons and other citrus fruits, may have antidiabetic properties. It was an animal study conducted on rats.
(Also Read:Diabetes Diet: 5 Best Low Sugar Fruits Diabetics Can Enjoy)
Squeezing lemon juice and drinking it with water may not amount to your daily recommended intake of fibre or vitamin C. But it is still a better bet than the sodas you find in markets, filled with empty calories and sugar. Make sure you do not add sugar to your lemon water when you are making it at home. It is best to consume it early in the morning on an empty stomach.
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
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I'm a health and nutrition enthusiast with a deep understanding of the benefits of various beverages on our well-being. My knowledge extends to the effects of different drinks on health conditions, including diabetes. Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article about the benefits of lemon water for diabetes management.
Lemon Water and Diabetes: A Refreshing Solution
The article highlights lemon water as an ideal thirst quencher, a miracle potion for weight loss, and a remedy for hangovers. Let's break down the key concepts:
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Low-Calorie Alternative: Lemon water is presented as a low-calorie and delicious alternative to sugary and aerated beverages. This makes it suitable for individuals, especially diabetics, who need to be mindful of their calorie intake.
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Diabetes and Blood Sugar Management: The connection between diabetes and elevated blood sugar levels is established. The article emphasizes the challenge of managing diabetes and the importance of diet in controlling blood sugar levels.
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Hydration for Diabetics: Diabetics are at risk of dehydration due to higher-than-normal blood glucose levels. Lemon water is advocated as a hydrating option to address this risk, as it helps maintain fluid balance in the body.
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Role of Soluble Fibres: Lemon water is described as low in carbohydrates and rich in soluble fibers. Soluble fibers contribute to slow sugar release in the bloodstream, aiding in preventing untimely spikes in blood sugar levels. Additionally, these fibers support heart health by regulating cholesterol and stabilizing blood pressure.
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Nutrient Content of Lemons: Lemons are highlighted as a source of essential nutrients, including vitamin C, folate, and potassium. The American Diabetes Association recognizes citrus fruits, including lemons, as "Diabetes Superfood" due to their nutritional benefits.
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Antidiabetic Properties: The article mentions a study published in the journal 'Advances in Nutrition,' suggesting that naringinen, a chemical compound found in lemons, may possess antidiabetic properties. The study, however, is specified as an animal study conducted on rats.
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Comparison with Sugary Drinks: Lemon water is positioned as a better option than sodas available in the market, which are filled with empty calories and sugar. The emphasis is on the importance of avoiding the addition of sugar to homemade lemon water.
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Optimal Consumption: The article recommends consuming lemon water early in the morning on an empty stomach. This underscores the timing and context for maximum benefits.
It's important to note that while the article provides valuable information, individual health conditions can vary. Anyone considering significant dietary changes, especially individuals with diabetes, should consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
