Sprinkle lemon zest on your food to control diabetes

Lemon zest or peel is loaded with flavanoids and polyphenols that help in controlling blood glucose level.

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Written By: Bhavyajyoti Chilukoti | Published : January 29, 2016 1:39 AM IST

We all know that drinking warm water and lemon juice early in the morning not only aids in weight loss but also boosts your immune system. And hence, our refrigerators are always stocked with lemon. But not many people know that lemon zest or peel is packed with anti-diabetic properties that can help you in managing your blood sugar level. So the next time you squeeze a lemon, don t throw it away! Rather peel it off and store.

How it helps?

Lemon peels contain polyphenols, which improves insulin resistance, a condition in which the cells do not respond to the action of insulin hormone. It does so by suppressing the accumulation of fat in the abdominal region. The presence of naringin and hesperidin, compounds helps in controlling diabetes. Moreover, it also lowers the breakdown of glucose in the liver and suppresses glucose metabolism -- production of new glucose molecules in the liver. Here is a diet plan diabetics can use for better blood sugar control.

How can you use it?

  • You can add lemon zest to salads instead of squeezing lemon juice, as it not only enhances the flavour but also improves its taste. Grate fresh lemon and sprinkle it over the salad to make it appetizing.
  • To further enhance the taste of a curry or add zing to dals, add one to two teaspoons of lemon zest while preparing it.
  • Replace lemon juice with lemon zest for marinating chicken or cooking fish to reap its anti-diabetic effects.

The next time you buy lemons, you know what to do with the lemon zest or peels. Also, take your medications on time and follow a strict diet and fitness routine for keeping your blood glucose level within control.

References

  1. Fukuchi Y, Hiramitsu M, Okada M, et al. Lemon Polyphenols Suppress Diet-induced Obesity by Up-Regulation of mRNA Levels of the Enzymes Involved in -Oxidation in Mouse White Adipose Tissue. Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition 2008;43(3):201-209. doi:10.3164/jcbn.2008066.
  2. Jung UJ, Lee MK, Jeong KS, Choi MS. The hypoglycemic effects of hesperidin and naringin are partly mediated by hepatic glucose-regulating enzymes in C57BL/KsJ-db/db mice. J Nutr. 2004 Oct;134(10):2499-503. PubMed PMID: 15465737.

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