Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, is effective in managing various health conditions, including diabetes. One of the main principles of Ayurveda is the idea that food is medicine. An Ayurvedic diet for diabetes focuses on balancing the three doshas, or energies, in the body – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha – to maintain optimal health and well-being. 

By following an Ayurvedic diet plan, individuals with diabetes can manage their blood sugar levels and improve their overall health and quality of life. 

Therefore, here are the top 5 ayurvedic foods for diabetes-

1. Vegetables

Vegetables are an essential part of an ayurvedic diet for diabetes. They are rich in nutrients and help balance the body’s doshas and regulate blood sugar levels. An ayurvedic diet for diabetes includes incorporating vegetables that are low in sugar, high in fiber, and have a low glycemic index.

Some of them are – broccoli, carrots, greens, peppers, tomatoes, corn, and more.

These vegetables are known to help stimulate insulin production and improve glucose metabolism. Additionally, the fiber present in these vegetables can make a person feel full. This, in turn, deters overeating and may lead to weight loss, which is beneficial for people with diabetes. 

2. Beans and Legumes

Beans and legumes are helpful for individuals with diabetes, as they are rich in dietary fiber and protein. An Ayurvedic diet chart for diabetes includes beans and legumes like – black beans, lentils, white beans, garbanzo beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans. 

These foods help balance blood sugar levels. Additionally, the high fiber content in beans and legumes means that the digestive tract absorbs fewer carbohydrates than it does from low-fiber, high-carbohydrate foods. Therefore, this makes it an excellent carbohydrate choice for people with diabetes. Beans and legumes can also replace meat or cheese. 

In addition, pressure or slow-cooking the beans may help improve their digestibility. 

3. Fruit

Fruits are an essential part of Ayurveda and diabetes. Despite their natural sugar content, according to Ayurveda, consuming whole fruits in the appropriate amount is not harmful to you as they do not contain any free sugar.

An Ayurvedic diet plan for diabetes includes consuming fruits low in sugar, like- apples, avocados, blackberries, cherries, plums, strawberries, etc. 

These fruits also provide a range of essential vitamins and minerals to improve overall health. 

4. Whole Grains

In Ayurveda, incorporating whole grains into the diet is the key to managing diabetes. An Ayurvedic diet for diabetes includes Whole grains like – whole wheat pasta, quinoa, wild rice, whole wheat flour, oatmeal, etc. 

They have a lower glycemic load and help regulate blood sugar levels. Whole grains can also help in making you feel full for a longer time and are highly flavored. 

5. Dairy

An Ayurvedic diet for diabetes is incomplete without dairy products. They contain essential nutrients, including calcium and protein, which help individuals with diabetes. Some research suggests that consuming dairy products may positively affect insulin secretion in some individuals with type-2 diabetes. 

Dairy products low in fat – parmesan, cottage cheese, low-fat milk, and low-fat Greek or plain yogurt can be a part of your diet. 

In conclusion, an Ayurvedic diet for diabetes can immensely improve your health and well-being. However, it’s important to follow other lifestyle changes recommended by an Ayurvedic Professional. 

To learn more about Ayurveda’s approach to food and nutrition, visit Mekosha Ayurveda Spasuites Retreat. Try out our delicious Ayurvedic Recipes at the Communal Table and take our course on Becoming an Ayurveda Chef to bring these healthy meals to your home. 

Start your journey towards a healthier life today!