Both diabetes and high blood pressure are becoming common among most people today, with doctors saying the numbers are only increasing.
Mostly due to lifestyle and diet, the cases highlight how the two deadly conditions are the cause of high fatalities across the world. Globally, 830 million people have been diagnosed with diabetes, and more than 200 million are living with hypertension, just in India.
And so, it is important to maintain healthy blood sugar levels and blood pressure, making a healthy diet a priority for overall well-being. According to experts, one of the most effective approaches is to consume certain foods and drinks on an empty stomach. These natural remedies control blood sugar and blood pressure levels, making you feel more energetic and healthier. Here are five foods and drinks you can have on an empty stomach daily for maximum benefits:
Amla
Amla, or Indian gooseberry, is a powerhouse of antioxidants that help regulate your blood sugar levels. Rich in vitamin C, amla also helps reduce bad or LDL cholesterol, thereby improving your heart health. If you take one amla and consume it on an empty stomach in the morning, it may also boost metabolism and strengthen the immune system.
Doctors say the chromium content in amla helps your body utilise insulin more efficiently, thereby preventing spikes and drops in blood sugar levels and making it beneficial for those with diabetes.
Cinnamon water
Take a bark of cinnamon and boil it in a cup of water. Drinking this daily in the morning, right after waking up, not only gives you energy but also lowers blood sugar levels by increasing your insulin sensitivity. For additional benefits, you can also add a pinch of black pepper powder, as it is packed with piperine, which improves the absorption of nutrients.
Within a week of consuming it daily, you would notice the drink helps regulate both blood sugar and blood pressure levels. This combination is also super effective in improving blood circulation and reducing inflammation in the body.
Flaxseeds
Flaxseeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, along with fibre and antioxidants – and hence, they are a great way to add to stablise your blood pressure and sugar levels – early in the morning.
Loaded with fibre, flaxseeds slow down the digestion of carbohydrates. Flax seeds also have a low glycemic index and regulate blood sugar levels, potentially aiding in diabetes management. The omega-3s also contribute to heart health, especially in those who are also battling diabetes.
Turmeric water
Taking a pinch of turmeric powder, adding it to boiled water, and drinking it on an empty stomach every morning is one of the best ways to control blood sugar and blood pressure levels.
Loaded with an active compound – curcumin, it is an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and vasodilatory spice that positively impacts these conditions. You can also add a dash of lemon juice to the drink, as it can help improve your digestion and detoxify the liver as well.
Fenugreek tea
Methi seeds chai is among the best natural remedies to manage diabetes and hypertension. Fenugreek seeds – packed with fibre – are extremely helpful for those battling diabetes. The seeds are loaded with fibre and other chemicals that slow digestion and your body’s absorption of carbohydrates and sugar.
According to experts, fenugreek tea also helps improve how your body uses sugar and increases the amount of insulin released.