If you’re on the lookout for foods that help you manage blood sugar levels, try adding lentils to your diet. These versatile legumes are rich in soluble fiber, a type of fiber that absorbs water as its digested and and can help keep blood sugar levels steady.
A slow, steady drip
Lentils and other foods high in soluble fiber help to slow down the process of digestion. That, in turn, triggers a slow, steady release of sugar and insulin into the bloodstream. And that's better for your body—and your diabetes risk profile—than the sudden spikes in blood sugar you get from eating quickly digested, low-fiber foods made from refined grains, like white pasta, white bread, and cookies and other sugary snacks.
Other blood sugar stabilizers
Lentils are one of the best foods that help to manage blood sugar. But there are other simple strategies to add to your efforts to maintain healthy blood sugar levels overall:
- Add a little resistance to your workout. A strength-training regimen could help steady your blood sugar.
- Don't forget your greens. Kale, collards, and other leafy vegetables can help improve blood sugar levels, too.
Sources: Harvard T. Chan School of Public Health.... + 2
- Harvard T. Chan School of Public Health. Lentils. Accessed Apr 6, 2022.
- USDA. Carbohydrates. Accessed Apr 6, 2022.
- U.S. National Library of Medicine. "Soluble and insoluble fiber." Jul 16, 2020.
