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Seeds in diabetes mellitus type 1 and 2: the benefits and harm
Last reviewed: 16.10.2021
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In summer, our land pleases the eye and pleasantly surprises with blooming fields of sunflowers, and in the fall with bright colors of many pumpkins in the gardens. This is because, in our traditions, seeds are considered not only as food, but also to spend time, relieve stress, calm nerves. We love talking under the click of seeds, especially the older generation. And what about those who suffer from diabetes, can they be with type 1 and type 2 diabetes?
Do sunflower seeds increase blood sugar?
This is the main issue worrying diabetics. The criterion for evaluation of any product in the patient's menu is its glycemic index - an indicator of how carbohydrates received with food affect the level of glucose in the blood. Low is considered to be up to 40 U. So, in the seeds with this, everything is fine. With proper preparation and moderate consumption, they can only bring benefits.
With gestational diabetes that occurs during pregnancy, it is even recommended to eat them because of the content of many substances the woman needs and the unborn child. They help to cope with toxicosis, ensure the strength of the infant's bone system, relieve nervousness and depressive states.
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The benefits and harm of seeds in diabetes
Seeds are useful raw. In fried, most of the beneficial components go away, and their fat content also increases. Since people want to satisfy their taste needs as well as benefits, the best option is dried in the oven. But the most useful is still raw, although it is not necessary to buy in a purified form due to the fact that they are oxidized under the influence of sunlight. Here are the facts testifying to the benefits and dangers of seeds in diabetes:
- sunflower seeds - up to half of their chemical composition is fatty oil, the fifth part belongs to proteins, and a quarter to carbohydrates. Vitamins (E, PP, group B), minerals (magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, selenium), polyunsaturated fatty acids, especially linoleic acid, phospholipids, carotenoids, sterols are also present.
The main value of sunflower seeds is that 100g of the product more than 100% satisfies the body's daily need for tocopherol. They enhance immunity, strengthen the vascular system and heart muscle, reduce blood pressure, calm the nervous system, balance carbohydrate metabolism.
Can cause harm if you exceed the recommended dose (up to 100g per day), use them in fried form. As a result of this heat treatment, the glycemic index jumps from 10 IU to 35, which means that the level of glucose in the blood can jump. In addition, they irritate the mucous membrane of the digestive organs and can lead to the development of inflammation;
- pumpkin seeds - they are not only possible, but also need to be included in the diet of a diabetic, because have a low glycemic index (10 U), rich in omega-3 and omega-6, many vitamins, micro- and macronutrients, organic and amino acids, phytosterols, resinous substances. They are low in carbohydrates and a lot of protein. Seed mushrooms reduce cholesterol levels, and therefore prevent the development of atherosclerosis, strengthen the strength of cell membranes, normalize sleep, their fiber removes fat and slags. A sufficient iron content helps eliminate anemia. They have a diuretic and laxative effect, and the crude cucurbitin amino acids, due to the presence of the amino acid cucurbitin in the seed coat, promote the removal of worms.
Along with this, pumpkin seeds are sufficiently high in calories and, with uncontrolled consumption, are capable of harm.
A decoction of sunflower seeds with diabetes
Sunflower seeds are used to make medicinal decoctions and infusions. Due to their high caloric content, such a method of consumption will bring only benefit. For the preparation of infusion will need 2 tablespoons of seeds and a glass of water. Seeds are pounded and poured boiling water. After an hour of infusion, you can drink 2 times a day for 200 ml.
For broth, you can take the same proportions. After boiling, leave on low heat until a quarter of the liquid has evaporated. All that remains is to filter, drink a spoon three times a day. To conduct a course of treatment in 2 weeks, after a five-day break, you can repeat.
Reviews
Judging by the reviews, people have long known the positive properties of seeds. Some, including pregnant women, use them to get rid of heartburn, others - to eliminate puffiness, with constipation. So alternative medicine has long taken this product into service.
It is also very popular among vegetarians, refusing animal protein, with the help of such a powerful source of nutrients necessary for vital activity, their full replacement occurs.