Kinkini Gupta
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Written By: Kinkini Gupta | Updated : May 28, 2024 6:55 PM IST
Protein For Diabetes Patients: How Can This Nutrient Help Regulate Blood Sugar Levels Naturally?
Protein, a nutrient that is considered as the building block of life on planet earth. Its role for our health is multifaceted. From ensuring healthy muscles, bone density, weight loss, health weight gain to keeping skin nourished and young, protein does it all. Did you know that protein-rich foods are the one and only food which will never spike up your blood glucose levels at any time during the day? If you did not know this then we are here to educate you on this. Protein has a very special connection with diabetes. It is one of the most essential nutrients that diabetes patients must have in their diet. Why? In simple words, protein is a heavy nutrient which not only satiates you but also takes time to digest. Slow digestion ensures that your body's blood sugar remains constant and does not suffer a spike. How your blood glucose reacts to protein is the opposite of how it reacts to carbohydrates which is why carbs are a no no if you are diabetic. Let us take a deep dive into this.
A protein-rich diet is one of the safest diets that you can ever opt for. The healthiest type of protein is lean protein because it contains the least amount of fat. But, if your weight is the least of your concerns, you can also opt for proteins that contain healthy fats which too are very good for health. If you are only consuming protein through natural foods, you do not need to track the amount that you are consuming, even if you are diabetic. Protein does no cause a spike in blood glucose levels and instead helps keep it constant. Here's how.
Our body takes 30 minutes to one hour to digest carbohydrates, this is a very fast process of digestion. But, with protein our body takes a maximum of four hours to digest. Why? When we eat carbs, our body picks it first to create glucose and thereby generate energy in the body. But, when we eat protein, our body takes its own time to break it down and thus does not lead to a noticeable spike in blood glucose levels. Therefore, the more carbs we eat, the more glucose will be generated in our body. The glucose spike created by carbohydrates then impact different people differently. High glucose levels are fine if you are not diabetic but if you are, this will only worsen your symptoms. So, instead of eating a carb-rich breakfast, lunch, snack and dinner it is recommended for diabetic patients to eat more proteins and fibre because neither of these food items will cause a blood sugar spike.
According to studies, you must consume at least 15 percent to 20 per cent proteins everyday regardless of diabetes. This is a standard intake especially for children, young people, women and older adults. As per the American Diabetes Association recommends, here are your best sources of daily protein intake:
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not vetted by an expert. Please consult a medical professional for more information on protein consumption.
Disclaimer: The content on TheHealthSite.com is only for informational purposes. It is not at all professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a healthcare specialist for any questions regarding your health or a medical condition.