Is guinea corn and millet good for diabetics?
The exact topic of this article first appeared on www.nimedhealth.com.ng
Local natural foods like guinea corn and millet have been around for thousands of years. It is mainly cultivated around continents in Asia and Africa. They are gluten-free grains from the Poacae grass family.
Guinea corn
Guinea corn is staple food in most African homes and beyond. Popularly known as “Sorghum”, they are great for both adults and babies; including the convalescents, and elderly. They are nutrient-packed in fiber and phenolic compounds. Guinea corn also contain calcium, iron, potassium, zinc, manganese, protein, carbohydrates, vitamin B6, phosphorus and fat.
They have a lot of potential health benefits. Some of which include: prevention of heart diseases, protection against cancer, and metabolic disorders.
Millet
Millet is loaded in vitamins and minerals. It is a rich source of fiber, antioxidants, manganese, magnesium, copper, phosphorus and protein. It is also gluten-free, and has a lower glycemic index (GI) as compared to other grains. That means it absorbs sugars slowly and prevent a spike in blood glucose levels. Millet has a nutty flavor, which makes it an easy add to your diets.
Is Guinea corn and millet good for diabetics?
Foods rich in fiber and has lower GI score will help keep your blood sugar levels in check. The lower a food’s GI is, the lower its tendency for raising blood glucose levels, a senior scientist at the ICRI (International Crops Research Institute) for Semi-Arid Tropics in India says.
Guinea corn and millets are low glycemic foods with very high fiber content. They are very good for people with diabetes. They can reduce your cholesterol levels and help with weight loss. Plus, millets contain protein that help improve insulin sensitivity. That is the ability of the body to convert sugars from meals into energy.
Guinea corn, on the other hand, is a complex carb, high in fiber that provides a feeling of satiety or fullness after consumption. It also helps improve glycemic response. All of these makes guinea corn and millets very good for regulating blood sugar levels, even in the long run.
More so, guinea corn and millet are whole grains. Meaning their bran and germs (outer layers) are still intact. Since whole grains take a longer time to get digested by the body, they don’t increase the blood sugar levels rapidly, like processed grains. They also help lower your risks of type II diabetes.
So far so good, guinea corn and millet helps keep blood glucose levels steady. So, yes, you’re free to add them to your diets, if diabetic. As they help prevent spikes in blood sugar levels after consumption. However, this is only when you consume in moderate amounts.
To properly manage diabetes effectively, its paramount you eat healthy foods. Guinea corn and millets are healthier alternatives to refined grains like maize, rice and wheat.
Stella-maris Achumba
