Drumstick: A Boon for Diabetic Person
Drumstick: A Boon for Diabetic Person
Drumstick is a vegetable that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. The scientific name for drumstick is Moringa oleifera, and it is also known as the horseradish tree, ben oil tree, or the drumstick tree. This plant is native to India, but it is now grown in many other parts of the world. Drumstick is a rich source of nutrients and has been found to be particularly beneficial for people with diabetes.
Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It is caused by a problem with insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. In people with diabetes, the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or can’t use it effectively, which leads to high blood sugar levels. If left untreated, diabetes can cause serious complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, and nerve damage.
One of the main benefits of drumstick for people with diabetes is its ability to lower blood sugar levels. Studies have shown that drumstick can help improve insulin sensitivity, which means that the body can use insulin more effectively. This can lead to lower blood sugar levels and better diabetes management. In one study, researchers found that drumstick leaf extract was able to significantly reduce blood sugar levels in diabetic rats.
Drumstick is also a rich source of antioxidants, which can help protect against the damage caused by high blood sugar levels. When blood sugar levels are high, it can cause oxidative stress, which can damage cells and contribute to the development of complications such as heart disease and kidney damage. Antioxidants can help neutralize the harmful effects of oxidative stress and protect against these complications. Drumstick contains a variety of antioxidants, including vitamin C, beta-carotene, quercetin, and chlorogenic acid.
Another benefit of drumstick for people with diabetes is its ability to improve lipid profile. Diabetes is often associated with abnormal lipid levels, including high levels of triglycerides and LDL cholesterol. High lipid levels can increase the risk of heart disease, which is a major complication of diabetes. Studies have shown that drumstick can help improve lipid profile by lowering triglycerides and LDL cholesterol levels.
Drumstick is also a good source of fiber, which can help regulate blood sugar levels. Fiber slows down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, which can prevent blood sugar spikes and help maintain stable blood sugar levels. In addition, fiber can help promote feelings of fullness and reduce appetite, which can be beneficial for weight management. Obesity is a risk factor for diabetes, and weight loss can help improve diabetes control.
In traditional medicine, drumstick has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including digestive problems, respiratory infections, and skin disorders. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties, which can help protect against infections and inflammation. In addition, drumstick has been found to have a protective effect on the liver, which can be beneficial for people with diabetes. The liver plays an important role in regulating blood sugar levels, and liver damage can contribute to insulin resistance and diabetes.
In conclusion, drumstick is a nutrient-dense vegetable that has numerous health benefits, particularly for people with diabetes. It can help lower blood sugar levels, improve lipid profile, protect against oxidative stress, and promote feelings of fullness. In addition, drumstick has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can help protect against infections and inflammation. Drumstick can be incorporated into a variety of dishes, including curries, soups, and stews. It is widely available in Asian markets and health food stores. If you have diabetes, adding drumstick to your diet may be a simple and effective way to improve your diabetes management and overall health.
Dr. Sapna Kumari
Assistant Professor
Department of Zoology
Patna Women’s College, Autonomous
Patna University
