It’s no secret that I start almost every morning with a breakfast smoothie loaded with protein, fat and fibre. This not only keeps me feeling satisfied until lunch, but it also helps to keep my body in fat burning mode by optimizing my blood sugar levels. This is what I recommend for women in my online weight loss program.
I also like to add in some extra ‘superfoods’ to support blood sugar levels further as part of a diet plan for women’s weight loss.
In this article about blood sugar balancing smoothie ingredients, we will discuss
1) Protein
Adding protein to your smoothie is one of the best ways to balance your blood sugar by blunting the absorption of carbohydrates and sugars. I recommend adding about 30g of protein in the form of high quality protein powder such as Equip Foods (use code JENNIFERH for a discount) made with grass-fed beef protein. You can also add some cottage cheese or greek yoghurt for extra protein and creaminess.
2) Psyllium Husk
Psyllium husk is high in fibre and is especially beneficial for balancing blood sugar. The gel forming fibres in psyllium slows down the digestion of food, which in turn regulates blood sugar levels as glucose does not enter the blood stream as quickly. Add about 1 tablespoon to your smoothies, and make sure to include enough liquid with it to ensure proper hydration and avoid any negative side effects from the fibre.
3) Inositol
Inositol is a type of sugar alcohol that has been found to improve insulin sensitivity. It may help your body use insulin more effectively, which can lead to better blood sugar control. Inositol is also known to support overall mental health and mood regulation. It also has the added benefit of adding a touch of sweetness without any added sugars.
4) Cinnamon
Cinnamon not only tastes great, it also has potential blood sugar-lowering effects. It contains compounds that can mimic the action of insulin and improve glucose metabolism. Cinnamon may also help reduce insulin resistance, making it easier for your body to process and regulate blood sugar levels. Try adding it into your smoothies, or sprinkling a dash on top.
5) Moringa Powder
Moringa powder is derived from the leaves of the Moringa oleifera tree. It is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Although research on its effects on blood sugar is limited, moringa may have potential anti-diabetic properties. It may help regulate blood glucose levels by improving insulin secretion and reducing insulin resistance.