Walnuts soaked to manage diabetes? Here are some benefits of the popular nut
A healthy diet plays an important role in keeping the risk of diseases at bay, especially those caused by lifestyle factors, such as type 2 diabetes. Diet can also play a key role in the management of these conditions, and help reduce the risk of complications due to the disease. A food group that is popularly known for its health benefits are nuts and seeds, as they contain nutritional value, as well as have many health benefits associated with them.
Consumption of nuts and seeds is known to be healthy for the body, and have benefits such as healthy skin, hair, weight loss, and diabetes management, to name a few. One such nut is walnuts, and here is how they can help in the management of blood sugar levels.
Soaked walnuts for type 2 diabetes management
Some people suggest that consuming soaked walnuts every day can help in the management of type 2 diabetes. Walnuts are a good food to add to diet for diabetics because they are rich in fiber. Fiber is known to reduce the release of blood sugar into the body, which reduces the chances of a sudden spike in sugar levels that can be harmful. Apart from that, walnuts have a low glycemic index as well. With a very low GI of only 15, walnuts make for a healthy mid-day snack, or addition to meals for diabetics.
Some studies shave also found that walnuts can help build resistance for insulin, control blood sugar levels, and lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Should you soak walnuts before you eat them?
Soaking nuts before consumption is a common practice in many parts of the world, especially India. It is believed that nuts and seeds have certain enzymes that can be difficult to digest raw. Therefore, soaking them can help in better digestion. This, however, does not alter the properties of the nut, nor does it have an effect on the many health benefits they offer. Depending on your own body and system, you can choose to either consume soaked nuts, or have them as it is.
Other health benefits of walnuts
Apart from helping in blood sugar management, walnuts have some other health benefits as well.
- Walnuts are rich in healthy fats such as omega-3 fatty acids which help reduce cholesterol levels and keep the heart healthy.
- Walnuts contain natural oils that are good for the skin and hair.
- Walnuts can also help reduce inflammation.
- Some studies show that the nut can help reduce the risk of cancer as well.