Diabetics often have diet restrictions to prevent spikes in their blood sugar and insulin levels. One of the worst drink choices for a person with diabetes is sugary drinks. This presents a problem especially if the person likes juice and is forced to cut that out. The good news though is there are juice recipes that are healthy even for people with diabetes.
Pomegranate juice
Unlike the sugar in other fruits, the sugars in pomegranate juice are not harmful to diabetics. This is because it is attached to unique antioxidants which make the sugars protective. The fruit also has a low glycaemic index making it safe for consumption for people with diabetes. Pomegranate fruit has numerous benefits including boosting immunity, lowering cholesterol, and protecting heart health. Scoop out fresh pomegranate seeds into your blender, add a little water, and just like that, the pomegranate juice is ready for consumption.
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Beetroot juice
Beetroot is a highly nutritious fruit that can be beneficial to diabetics, especially when juiced. Raw beetroot has a low glycaemic index compared to cooked beetroot. This means that it is unlikely to cause blood sugar spikes when consumed raw. Beetroot has a regulating effect on glucose and insulin in humans. It also helps lower the risk of diabetes complications and lowers insulin resistance. Beetroots also lower blood pressure and the risk of chronic illness. Blend raw beetroot or lightly roasted beetroot then add a low sugar fruit of your choice such as green apples to add some taste to it. Just avoid high-sugar fruits like pineapple, mango, and watermelon. Other low-sugar fruits that are good for diabetics are avocado, kiwi, grapefruit, and berries (strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries).
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Tomato juice
Diabetics are more prone to developing blood clots than people who are not diabetic. Tomato juice has a blood-thinning effect which minimizes the likelihood of developing. The juice can also help manage blood sugar levels. Tomatoes also have beta-carotene and vitamin E both of which are beneficial for heart health. You can blend tomatoes and leave it at that or add cucumber, mint, and/or garlic to the juice for added health benefits.
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Green juices
Green juices made from vegetables are especially beneficial for diabetics. Some common recommendations include juice from bitter gourd, spinach and celery, cucumber juice, and more.
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Bitter gourd
Bitter gourd helps regulate blood sugar levels in the body. Blend chopped bitter gourd with water then strain the mixture. Add lemon juice and salt to taste, mix well and serve immediately.
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Cucumber
Cucumbers are low in carbohydrates with a low glycemic index making them safe and healthy for diabetics. Animal studies show that it can help decrease blood sugar. Blend cucumber with a green apple and lemon juice to taste. For extra benefits, you can add some kale leaves or ginger to the mix.
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Spinach and celery
Both spinach and celery are incredibly nutritious. Spinach is a superfood that is great for managing blood sugar levels. It is fibrous which means it takes time to digest and does not cause blood sugar spikes after meals. This is important for diabetics. It has a low glycemic index and is also low in calories. Celery is a rich source of antioxidants which boost immunity and helps lower blood glucose levels. It has a low glycemic index and borderline non-existent calories. Blend both spinach and celery and consider adding mint or ginger to taste. You can also add carrots to the mix.
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With all the juices you can add low-sugar fruit to sweeten it or add diabetes-friendly sweetener alternatives.
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