Never underestimate the stature of these tiny fruits. Blueberries contain lots of powerful ingredients that can help you manage your diabetes well. In fact, the American Diabetes Association or ADA named blueberries as a diabetes super food. They provide you with so many nutrients, such as antioxidants, vitamins and fiber. These in turn render some key benefits that can help in your blood sugar control and your overall diabetes management.
How Does Blueberries Help in Blood Sugar Control?
Blueberries help in blood sugar control by boosting your body’s ability to process glucose more efficiently and improving insulin sensitivity. Both of these can help to fight the symptoms of diabetes.
A study was done in New Orleans to investigate the effect of blueberries on diabetes. In the study, laboratory rats were fed with blueberries that were crushed to powder form. The lab rats were found to show improvements in insulin sensitivity, even when they ate a high fat diet along with the blueberries. Since most of those who have diabetes tend to struggle with insulin resistance, improving insulin sensitivity can therefore be beneficial in managing diabetes. The study also revealed that the lab rats that had eaten crushed blueberry powder showed lower blood sugar, as compared to when they did not eat the powder. If you are suffering from Type 2 Diabetes, you can lower your blood sugar level by eating lots of high fiber fruits, such as blueberries.
Blueberries Can Help You Lose Weight and Belly Fats
Another Michigan study found that lab rats fed with blueberries powder showed decreased body weight and total fat mass. Researchers found that after 90 days of including blueberries in the diet, the lab rats were able to metabolize fat more efficiently due to changes in the rats’ gene which are responsible for using and storing fat. The lab rats also showed reduced fats in the belly.
Blueberries are low in calorie yet highly nutritious. Hence, snacking on blueberries instead of other high calorie food can help you lose weight. Replacing blueberries with a higher calorie ingredient can also do the trick. These in turn improve diabetes management and your overall health.
