5 Reasons Why Diabetics Should Consume Spinach

Spinach is a green vegetable that is known to have many health benefits. Not only for healthy people, it turns out that spinach also has benefits for people with diabetes (diabetes). What are the benefits? Check out the full explanation below
Various Benefits of Spinach for Diabetics
One of the green vegetables that is suitable for consumption by people with diabetes is spinach. This is important because the right diet can keep blood sugar levels normal.
The following are various potential benefits of spinach for diabetics, including:
1. Lowers Blood Sugar Levels
When experiencing problems with insulin secretion, diabetics find it difficult to control blood sugar levels in their body. Sometimes blood sugar levels cannot be controlled, can be too low or too high. Of course, this can cause serious health problems.
By consuming spinach, the body will get a high antioxidant content in the form of alpha-lipoic acid. These compounds can help control blood sugar levels effectively. That means, diligently eating spinach can prevent diabetes complications.
2. Increase Insulin Sensitivity
Insulin production in the body of people with diabetes is disrupted because their pancreas can no longer function optimally.
Without sufficient insulin, the body will not be able to metabolize sugar into energy. This will make the body feel weak and less energetic, easily sleepy, but make blood sugar levels very high.
By consuming spinach, the body will be stimulated again to produce insulin better. This will certainly have a positive impact on the balance of blood sugar levels.
Also Read: Tracing the Benefits of Mangosteen Skin for Diabetics
3. Prevents Oxidative Stress
One of the main causes of diabetes complications is the emergence of oxidative stress. This is caused by the body experiencing inflammation so that it eventually gets damaged.
For example, blood vessels, heart and nerves are prone to health problems if you experience oxidative stress frequently. This has the potential to trigger dangerous complications and premature death.
The presence of antioxidants in spinach which is very high can help fight the harmful effects of free radicals and oxidative stress which can prevent these complications.
4. Can Prevent Peripheral Neuropathy and Autonomic Neuropathy
Nerve damage is a complication that is often experienced by diabetics. Nerve disorders that arise are peripheral neuropathy and autonomic neuropathy.
Peripheral neuropathy can cause nerves in the soles of the feet to be damaged. Other parts that can experience it are the arms and hands. Meanwhile, autonomic neuropathy can cause nerve damage to the eyes, digestive tract, and heart.
The content of antioxidants and other nutrients in spinach is believed to help prevent these health problems.
5. Controls Blood Pressure
Diabetics are also prone to high blood pressure, especially if the patient still has a bad diet.
By consuming spinach which is high in fiber and phytonutrients, these health problems can be prevented. This certainly can prevent the arrival of complications in the heart and blood vessels.
Also Read: Vitamin A Deficiency Cause Diabetes? These are the Facts
Now, that’s the various benefits of consuming spinach for diabetics. Don’t forget, process spinach in the right way, either by boiling or sautéing; not made into fried or chips which actually makes the benefits less.
In addition, this vegetable can also be consumed in the form of a salad and without adding fat. Alternatively, you can consume it in the form of soup or juice. However, the best way is to eat it raw.
- Anonymous. 2018. Diabetes: How Spinach Helps Manage Blood Sugar Levels Naturally. https://www.ndtv.com/food/diabetes-how-spinach-helps-manage-blood-sugar-levels-naturally-1936318. (Accessed January 30, 2023)
- Sharma, Pakhi. 2021. How Spinach Manages Diabetes Better Than Other Foods?. https://www.phablecare.com/health-guide/diabetes/spinach-for-diabetes. (Accessed January 30, 2023)
- Salomon, Sheryl H. 2020. 7 Low-Carb Veggies for a Diabetes-Friendly Diet. https://www.everydayhealth.com/type-2-diabetes/diet/low-carb-veggies-for-diabetic-diets/. (Accessed January 30, 2023)
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