When you have high blood sugar, there are a lot of restrictions in terms of eating. Surprising foods can increase blood sugar levels. So one should be careful while choosing what one should and should not eat. Dal or lentils are staples like rice and roti in Indian households. While rice is not particularly ideal for diabetics, what about lentils? If yes, what kind of pulses should they pick? let’s find out!
Moong, masoor, urad, tur, chickpea – which pulses should be eaten in high blood sugar
Dr Anil Bhoraskar, Senior Diabetologist, SL Raheja Hospital, Mahim – a Fortis Associate and Secretary, Diabetic Association of India (Scientific Section) says, “All pulses – moong, masoor, urad etc – are good for people suffering from diabetes , only if the patient does not have kidney disease. Diabetics with kidney disease need to soak these pulses in water overnight, discard the water and then cook them. Also, they should be avoided by consuming toor dal. Should be avoided. Patients can consume kidney beans, bitter gourd in limited quantity, and chickpeas once a week.”
He also mentioned that all the preparation of rice should be accompanied by dal like khichdi. “Idli is better than rice as it contains 30% urad dal and 70% rice. Patients can take fenugreek thepla with a little ghee, which is better than a plain paratha, and spinach mixed with lentils or plain lentils Better than that,” adds Dr. Bhoraskar.
Diksha Katiyar, Consulting Physician, WeClinic Homeopathy, says that diabetics can certainly have some ‘dal’ as part of their diet, but it is recommended to consume them after consulting their doctor. “For example, chana dal has a very low glycemic index of 8 which makes it a superfood for diabetics. It is also a rich source of protein and fiber, which makes it an overall healthy food item. Its high fiber The ingredients regulate one’s blood sugar level and help keep it under control. Moong and urad dal are also good options for them,” she says.
Also read: High Blood Sugar: Fruit Juice For French Fries – 7 Foods To Avoid In Type 2 Diabetes
High blood sugar: 5 types of pulses and pulses that can be opted for by diabetics
Diksha Katiyar lists down 5 types of pulses that diabetics can choose from and why:
Chickpea: Chickpeas contain all the important minerals and vitamins. Plus, it has a low glycemic index and is high in protein and fiber. Diabetic patients can consume it without any hesitation.
Rajma (Rajma): Kidney beans also have a low glycemic index and are apt to eat when it comes to diabetics. In addition, they are loaded with complex carbohydrates and are better suited for diabetics than foods with no carbs.
Peel off the skin and remove the skin: Urad Dal: Urad dal is rich in protein and has a low glycemic index. Its consumption also helps in getting spotless skin.
Bengal Chana (Chana Dal): It is a highly nutritious pulse which is rich in protein and folic acid. It aids in the formation of red blood cells, and is low in glycemic index.
Moong Dal (Green Chana): Moong dal is another lentil that is loaded with protein, and with a low glycemic index. It is also good for one’s heart and thyroid health.