Please note that these are tips to AID diabetes care, NOT a way to control or cure it. These are recommendations from Ayurveda for diabetes. Also, always consult your doctor before trying any new care strategies.

Here are some naturals foods for diabetes care or in managing your blood sugar levels according to Ayurveda for diabetes:

Jamun (Black Plum): A powerful food for diabetes. Jamun is known for controlling blood sugar since the fruit carries no sucrose. But the main benefit is in the seed of the fruit. Jamboline, the seed of Jamun, helps convert starch into sugar, which in turn helps control blood sugar levels much faster and increases insulin activity and sensitivity.

Karela (Bitter Gourd): This green super food for diabetes is perfect for maintaining a good blood sugar level because it contains an insulin-like compound called Polypeptide-p or p-insulin. These substances work individually or together to help reduce blood sugar levels.

Bananas: This soul food for diabetes is very beneficial for aiding blood sugar control. They contain resistant starch, which helps as dietary fibre since it is not digested in the small intestine. Considered one of the best fruits for diabetes.

Amla (Indian Gooseberry): Ayurveda’s favourite food for diabetes, amla is used traditionally to control high blood sugar levels. It contains a type of mineral called chromium, which regulates carbohydrate metabolism and helps make your body more responsive to insulin. Amla Juice keeps the blood sugar levels in check.

Avocado: It was recently found that avocados do not harm blood sugar levels. One of the main reasons for avocados to be a good choice is that they are low in carbs and very high in fibre.

Nuts such as almonds, cashews, chestnuts, walnuts and pistachios: Nuts contain unsaturated fats, proteins and a range of vitamins and minerals that lower cholesterol, inflammation and insulin resistance. But be cautious that only up to 50 grams of these nuts (total) are chosen as your food for diabetes.

Barley OR whole grains such as Oats / Brown Rice OR millets like Jowar / Ragi: Nutritionists often recommend these as they can help reduce your appetite and high blood sugar levels. Choose these as food for diabetes over the processed options.

Fenugreek Seeds: Known for controlling blood sugar levels, the best way to consume these is with a spoonful of turmeric powder and warm water.

Oily fish such as Salmon, Mackerel, Tuna, Sardines and Bluefish: Their richness in Omega-3 fatty acids promotes both diabetes and heart health since it helps reduce triglycerides.

Some other food for diabetes that are commonly recommended:

Vegetables like Sweet Potatoes, Broccoli, Kale, Chinese Cabbage, Spinach, Carrot and Garlic

Fruits for diabetes: Strawberries, Tomatoes and Pumpkins.

Light proteins like Eggs, Beans and Quinoa

Finally, people with diabetes are also sometimes at higher risk for heart disease so choosing better fats is important. Healthy fats are found in oils like olive, canola and sunflower. Try to limit saturated fats such as ghee, butter, cream, lard, shortening or coconut oil. Choose lower-fat cooking methods such as baking, broiling, barbecuing or roasting. Also, take a look at Simple Ayurvedic Home Remedies to Control Blood Sugar Levels to understand the principles of Ayurveda for diabetes.