How does eating spinach regularly help improve blood sugar?

Long-term blood sugar control is a vital health issue for people with diabetes. Recent studies have shown that regular consumption of spinach can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce oxidative stress.

Among healthy foods, spinach is especially good for people with diabetes because it contains many nutrients that are beneficial for controlling the disease. This is a low-calorie green vegetable, rich in fiber, vitamins and antioxidants, capable of supporting insulin control and preventing post-meal blood sugar spikes, according to the health website Healthline (USA).

Spinach contains the powerful antioxidant alpha-lipoic acid (ALA), which has the ability to increase insulin sensitivity and reduce oxidative stress.

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Spinach helps regulate blood sugar in the following ways:

Low glycemic index and unexpected benefits of spinach

One of the biggest advantages of spinach for diabetics is its very low glycemic index (GI), around 15. This means that spinach does not cause a sudden spike in blood sugar after eating. Scientists say that low GI foods help control blood sugar more effectively, especially in people with type 2 diabetes.

Fiber slows down sugar absorption

Spinach is a rich source of both soluble and insoluble fiber. Both types of fiber are beneficial in regulating blood sugar levels. Fiber helps slow down the digestion and absorption of glucose, thereby reducing the rate at which blood sugar rises after meals.

A cup of boiled spinach contains about 4 grams of fiber. An article in the journal Nutrients says that getting enough fiber can improve blood sugar control, reduce insulin needs, and reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications.

Contains alpha-lipoic acid

Spinach contains an antioxidant called alpha-lipoic acid (ALA). This is a powerful antioxidant that can increase insulin sensitivity and reduce oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is one of the causes of worsening diabetes and causing vascular complications.

A study published in the journal Diabetes Care found that regular ALA supplementation improved fasting blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

Rich in potassium

Spinach is also a great source of potassium. Potassium is an electrolyte that helps maintain homeostasis, regulate insulin, and control blood pressure. High blood pressure is a common complication in people with diabetes and can damage the kidneys, heart, and blood vessels. One cup of cooked spinach contains up to 840 mg of potassium, which helps maintain stable blood pressure and supports blood glucose control, according to Healthline.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/an-rau-chan-vit-thuong-xuyen-giup-cai-thien-duong-huyet-ra-sao-185250526135837815.htm