• Source:JND

Breakfast For Diabetes: Idli is a healthy breakfast staple in almost every South Indian household. It is not only restricted to South India, but its prominence has spread to other parts of India and the world. Diabetics can eat idli considering portion control and a little bit of moderation. As breakfast is considered the most important meal of the day, diabetics can indulge in idli recipes that are high in fibre and low in Glycemic Index (GI) levels to provide them with sustained energy in order to carry them forward throughout the day.

What Is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a condition that impacts the blood sugar level in the body. It occurs when there is not enough insulin in the body or when the body is not able to respond to insulin production. When most people eat anything, the food metabolism causes the release of sugar for energy. However, for diabetics, this sugar in the blood becomes the reason for concern, as it could be too high or too low. Unfortunately, there is no cure for diabetes and it can be managed through good diet and lifestyle choices. Diabetics should consider food with high fibre and low Glycemic Index (GI) levels that ensure the gradual breakdown of food items and a slow release of sugar in the blood. Taking special care of their breakfast, here’s a list of diabetes-friendly idli breakfast recipes to look at.

Diabetes-Friendly Idli Recipes For Breakfast

Oats Idli

Oats are considered to be the most reliable superfood for diabetic as well as non-diabetic patients. It is rich in protein and fibre which are crucial for managing fluctuation in the blood sugar levels. Unlike the authentic rice idlis, these idlis are thick and wholesome and can be paired with refreshing chutneys and sambar. To make the oats' idli more nutritious, you can also add veggies like carrots and beans to the oats batter and steam everything together in the idli steamer.

Ragi Idli

Rice and wheat are synonymous with Indians. However, most of them also rely on millets like ragi, jowar and bajra for their daily nutrition. Ragi is packed with fibre, protein, calcium, vitamin D and various antioxidants and minerals that help in the management of diabetes. You can pair ragi idlis with sambar and chutney.

Jowar Idli

Jowar or sorghum is another millet that is loaded with nutrients. Jowar is high in fibre and thus jowar idli helps to keep the diabetics full till lunch. Instead of rice use jowar which is packed with a multitude of antioxidants and minerals to benefit your overall health. 

Moong Dal Idli

Although Indians cook moong dal in a variety of dishes like soups, stews, curries pakoras and halwa, it is best suitable for making idlis as well. This is a diabetes-friendly breakfast dish with having GI index of 38. Moreover, moong dal idli is rich in protein and fibre which is an excellent choice for diabetic patients.

Egg Idli

This an innovative idli recipe where you do not need any batter. Egg idli is made by cooking eggs in an idli pan and then tossing them with a spicy masala made of curry leaves and dry red chillies. According to the American Diabetes Foundation, eggs are considered beneficial for diabetics. Pair your egg idlis with chutney or have it as it is.

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