Bael Fruit For Diabetes

Bael also known as Bel , wood apple is a fruit of the Rutaceae tree family. It is native to India and Bangladesh and is more widely used in Southeast Asia. It is also known as Bengal quince, stone apple, holy fruit tree, wood apple, etc. Bael is sliced and sun-dried for consumption in some regions. Bael juice is also a popular form of consumption. Though traditionally used to treat digestive issues, this fruit can also be an excellent addition to the diet of someone with diabetes as it is known to lower the blood sugar levels. Read on to know benefits of bael fruit for diabetes.

Is Bael Fruit Good for Diabetes?

The bael fruit, commonly referred to as the wood apple, is a fruit that is indigenous to Southeast Asia and India. It has long been utilised for therapeutic purposes and is nutrient-rich. The following are some possible advantages of bael fruit for diabetes:

Is Wood Apple Good for Diabetes? Yes, wood apple is good for diabetes. Blood sugar levels are regulated by substances present in bael fruit, such as polyphenols and flavonoids, which have been shown to have hypoglycemic effects. This implies that they can aid in lowering blood sugar levels in diabetics.Enhances insulin sensitivity: Research has revealed that bael fruit can enhance insulin sensitivity, which is crucial for those who have type 2 diabetes. Increased insulin sensitivity translates to a body that can use insulin to control blood sugar levels more successfully.

Bael Fruit Benefits for Diabetes

People with diabetes are often apprehensive about consuming fruits due to their high glucose content. They might have similar reservations and doubts when it comes to this fruit. So, can a person with diabetes eat bael fruit? The answer is yes. In fact, it might be a great addition to your diet. Let’s look at the benefits of bael fruit for people with diabetes to understand how.

• Bael dramatically helps in reducing blood sugar levels. 
• It improves insulin sensitivity toward blood sugar.
• Individuals with diabetes frequently experience indigestion manifesting as constipation, loose stools, and diarrhoea. Bael improves digestion when consumed in moderation.
• The glycemic index and sugar content in bael is extremely low and, therefore, it is safe to be consumed by people with diabetes. 

• The energy produced by bael reduces feelings of lethargy - an issue people with diabetes often face. It also has a good satiety value and leaves you feeling full for more extended periods.
• Diabetes may sometimes cause high blood pressure in some people. The consumption of bael fruit may improve signs of high blood pressure.
• Women with gestational diabetes can also eat bael fruit without worrying about the health of the growing foetus. It is essential to consult a gynaecologist or diabetologist in such cases.
• People with diabetes also struggle with delayed wound healing. The antibiotic properties of bael might help quicken the process. 

Benefits of Bael Fruit in Diabetes

• Bael works by releasing certain chemicals like flavonoids, tannins, and coumarins that help fight off inflammatory conditions in the body like swelling, pain, redness, and delayed healing.
• The seeds of bael contain 70% protein and, therefore, are highly recommended to improve lean muscle mass.
• Various parts of the bael tree and fruit are used to make certain ayurvedic and herbal medicines.
• It helps treat diarrhoea, constipation, and dysentery and aids in maintaining a good digestive system.
• Because of its antibiotic properties, bael is often applied to a person's skin with a snake bite for improved healing.
• It also helps improve memory and concentration and treat depression.
• Individuals with asthma can improve their symptoms by eating bael. However, professional guidance is essential in such cases.
• It is safe to be eaten by pregnant and breastfeeding women.
• Bael is rich in potassium, vital in regulating blood flow through tissues. Optimal blood flow allows the heart to function efficiently, reducing episodes of blood clots, strokes, and atherosclerosis (plaque formation blood).
• Bael helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels and improves overall well-being and fitness.
• Helps control blood sugar levels. Polyphenols and flavonoids, which have been reported to have hypoglycemic effects, are contained in wood apple. This implies that they can aid in lowering blood sugar levels in diabetics.
• Enhances insulin sensitivity. For those with type 2 diabetes, Wood Apple can enhance insulin sensitivity. Increased insulin sensitivity translates to a body that can use insulin to control blood sugar levels more successfully.

How to Eat Bael Fruit for Diabetics?

Bael fruit can be consumed in a number of ways to control diabetes, including:

• Eating it uncooked: Bael fruit can be consumed raw, just like other fruits. Just cut it open, scoop out the seeds, and consume the pulp. Make sure to chew the pulp thoroughly because it can be rather sticky and fibrous.
• Juice made from the bael fruit is a common way to ingest the fruit. The pulp from the fruit should be removed, blended with water, and then strained through a fine mesh strainer to create the juice. If desired, you can include a sweetener, such as honey or stevia.
• Using bael fruit in desserts or smoothies: Bael fruit can be used in fruit salads, ice cream, or smoothies
  

Wood Apple Glycemic Index

The glycemic index of bael falls between 0-55. It has a low glycemic index which means the amount of sugar produced from consuming bael is negligible and can be safely consumed by individuals with type 2 and type 1 diabetes. Bael consists of an active ingredient called Feronia gum, which controls blood sugar levels, making it a good option for people with diabetes.

Nutrition value of Bael fruit

Bael provides a good amount of nutrition to people with diabetes and is an excellent source of energy. However, it should be consumed with precaution. Looking at the nutritional value of 100gms of bael might help us to understand its composition better. 

Side Effects Of Bael Fruit For Diabetes

Individuals with diabetes mellitus need regular medication. Insulin injections might, at times, become inevitable to control blood sugar levels. Bael also helps reduce blood sugar, and therefore, the risk lies in its consumption. Medication and bael together may lower blood sugar to dangerously low levels leading to episodes of fainting, blackouts, headaches, and dizziness with delirium, known as hypoglycemia. It is advisable to consume bael with precaution and under the guidance of a diabetologist or a dietician.

Bottomline

Is bel good for diabetes? Bael may also interfere with blood sugar control during and after a surgical procedure. Fluctuations in blood sugar may prove harmful for a person with diabetes and may lead to misjudgments by surgeons and physicians.

FAQ

1. How Much Bael Should I Take if I Have Diabetes?

Bael juice can be consumed up to 1 cup a day. Bael capsules can be taken as 1-2 per day. Physician prescription and advice must be followed before deciding the dosage.

2. How to Consume Bael Leaves for Diabetes?

Several studies have shown that bael leaves can help with diabetes management. They contain polyphenols and flavonoids, which can aid in the reduction of blood glucose levels. Furthermore, bael leaves are high in fibre and minerals that help with diabetes management.

3. What are Bael Juice Benefits for Diabetes ?

Bael fruit juice has a glycemic index of 0 to 55, making it an excellent low GI beverage for diabetics. It can also improve glucose uptake in cells and tissues and pancreatic beta cell function, making it an excellent choice of drink for diabetics.

‍