Long Pepper: A Natural Remedy for Diabetes
High blood sugar levels can lead to various hidden side effects that can be extremely detrimental to the body’s health. It’s akin to a silent termite infestation – invisible but gradually damaging from within. Long pepper, scientifically proven to have several blood sugar-regulating properties, can be a valuable addition to the diets of individuals with diabetes.
Long pepper shares its spicy nature with regular pepper, making it a convenient addition to various dishes. Incorporating 2 to 3 grams of long pepper powder into your daily diet can offer several health benefits, especially for diabetics.
Here are six ways in which long pepper powder can benefit those with diabetes:
1. Fasting Blood Sugar Reduction:
Consuming 2 grams of long pepper powder with your evening meal for about nine days has been shown to reduce fasting blood sugar levels by approximately 20%. This remarkable reduction helps bring blood sugar levels closer to normal, significantly aiding in blood sugar control during fasting.
2. Heat Production and Glucose Absorption:
Long pepper generates heat within the body, even in small quantities. This heat production relies on glucose, which cells absorb from the bloodstream. Long pepper supports this heat generation by enhancing glucose absorption in cells. This mechanism contributes to lowering blood glucose levels.
3. Pancreatic Protection:
Long pepper contains beta-caryophyllene and antioxidants, which play a pivotal role in shielding the pancreas from damage. In many cases, diabetes can develop due to obesity, leading to an increased release of reactive oxygen species (ROS) from fat cells. These ROS can harm the pancreas over time. Long pepper’s antioxidant properties help mitigate this damage.
4. Reducing Insulin Resistance:
Long pepper comprises piperine and piperidine, compounds that effectively reduce insulin resistance in liver cells and muscles. Insulin resistance can hinder the absorption of glucose by cells, contributing to elevated blood sugar levels. Long pepper helps alleviate this resistance, allowing for better glucose uptake.
5. Enhancing Insulin Production:
The presence of long pepper can stimulate insulin production by beta cells in the pancreas. Long pepper blocks K+ channels that interfere with insulin production. As a result, it encourages beta cells to release more insulin. Annamalai University in Chennai has conducted research confirming this benefit.
6. Protecting Beta Cells:
Long pepper serves as a safeguard against inflammatory mediators and free radicals that can harm beta cells in the pancreas. By shielding these cells from attacks, long pepper extends the lifespan of beta cells, ensuring their continued health.
As all six benefits of long pepper for diabetes have been scientifically established, it is recommended to use long pepper powder as a seasoning in your culinary endeavors. There is no need to consume long pepper in the form of a decoction. Simply replace it for chili powder and pepper powder while cooking to harness its numerous advantages for diabetes management.