Spice up your diabetes management with coriander seeds!

Spices have long been the secret superheroes of our kitchen cabinets, adding flavour to our favorite dishes. Among these spices, coriander seeds or dhaniya seed stand tall, not only for their ability to enhance curries but also for their health benefits in being able to manage diabetes. Yes, you heard that right! When my grandmother started drinking coriander seed water in the morning, she explained to me that these dhaniya seeds are known to control blood sugar levels. Let’s take a look at the benefits of coriander seeds for diabetes and how to use them.

Benefits of coriander seeds for diabetes

1. Deliver anti-hyperglycemic compounds

“The best diabetic remedy for reducing blood sugar levels is coriander seeds,” says Dr Chaitali Deshmukh, an Ayurvedic expert. According to research in The British Journal of Nutrition, coriander seed extracts contain various substances with anti-hyperglycemic properties. These compounds mimic the action of insulin, helping to regulate blood sugar levels. Furthermore, coriander seeds can enhance the activity of enzymes responsible for sugar elimination from the bloodstream, thus aiding in the reduction of blood sugar levels.

2. Control insulin release

According to Dr Deshmukh, coriander seeds play a role in regulating insulin production and maintaining normal blood sugar levels. A study published in The US National Library of Medicine indicated that these seeds can regulate the release of insulin from pancreatic beta-cells. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with type 2 diabetes, as it enhances insulin production and helps counteract insufficient insulin levels.

3. Work as a diabetes medicine

“Coriander seeds for diabetes have been shown in a few lab trials to be just as beneficial as diabetic medications,” says Dr Deshmukh. The expert mentioned a study, done on obese and diabetic rats, which shows that a single dose of coriander seed extract (20 mg/kg) decreased blood sugar in the following six hours as much as the diabetic medication glibenclamide did.

4. Improve digestion

Coriander seeds have been renowned for their digestive properties. Rich in dietary fiber, they promote healthier bowel movements and possess potent antioxidant effects. Dr Deshmukh explains that by enhancing digestion, coriander seeds contribute to stabilized blood sugar levels.

5. Low GI food

Coriander seeds also have a low glycemic index (GI), making them easier to digest and absorb. This characteristic is crucial in a diabetic diet, where foods with a low GI are preferred to avoid spikes in blood sugar levels. “Coriander seeds, with a GI of only 33, make an excellent choice for individuals with diabetes,” says Dr Deshmukh.

6. Promote weight loss

Furthermore, the high fiber content in coriander seeds helps promote satiety, preventing overeating and the subsequent increase in blood sugar levels. This is particularly advantageous for individuals with type 2 diabetes, as weight control plays a vital role in managing the condition.

Also try: Kadwa badam for diabetes control: My mom says it’s a good home remedy to control blood sugar levels

How to use coriander seeds for diabetes?

To harness the benefits of coriander seeds, Dr Deshmukh recommends drinking coriander seed water every morning. To make coriander seed water, soak a tablespoon of coriander seeds in a glass of water overnight and consume it empty stomach in the morning.

This simple practice helps maintain stable blood sugar levels throughout the day. Additionally, coriander seeds can be added to dals, curries, and rice meals to enjoy their health benefits.

Embrace their goodness, incorporate them into your daily routine and let them work their magic in managing diabetes and supporting overall well-being. So, spice up your life, one coriander seed at a time!