What is the glycemic index of idli sambar?
According to the January app, the glycemic index of idli sambar is 70. This is considered high. By looking up idli sambar in the January app, you can quickly see the glycemic index of that food as well as the glycemic load. This information can help guide your dietary choices.
What impact will this have on my blood sugar levels?
When you eat idli sambar, your blood sugar levels will rise quickly. This is because of the high glycemic index of idli sambar. Foods with a high glycemic index can cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels, while foods with a low glycemic index will cause a more gradual increase.
When using the January app, we can see the calories, macros, and glycemic index (GI) / glycemic load (GL) of that food item. But here's the best part: We can also see our predicted blood sugar response, without requiring you to wear a sensor.
Can people with diabetes eat idli sambar?
People with diabetes should be cautious when consuming idli sambar due to its high glycemic index. It can cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels, which can be challenging to manage for diabetics. It is always best to consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.
What are the health benefits of idli sambar?
Idli sambar, a traditional South Indian dish, offers several health benefits. Idli, made from fermented rice and urad dal, is an excellent source of protein, carbohydrates, and dietary fiber. Sambar, a lentil-based vegetable stew, provides essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, potassium, and iron. The fermentation process in idli also helps in improving digestion and gut health.
Nutritional Information
Here is the nutritional information for idli sambar:
- Calories: Approximately 200-250 per serving
- Protein: 8-10 grams
- Fat: 2-4 grams
- Carbohydrates: 40-50 grams
- Fiber: 5-7 grams
- Calcium: 20-30 mg
- Potassium: 300-400 mg
- Sodium: 500-600 mg
- Vitamin C: 10-15 mg
What are some healthy alternatives to idli sambar?
For those looking for lower glycemic index alternatives, you might consider foods like dosas made from whole grains or millet, quinoa salad, or vegetable-based soups. These alternatives can provide similar nutritional benefits with a lower impact on blood sugar levels.
Conclusion
While idli sambar is a nutritious and beloved dish, its high glycemic index means it can cause significant spikes in blood sugar levels. Moderation and pairing it with other lower glycemic index foods can help manage its impact. As always, it is best to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized dietary recommendations, especially for individuals with diabetes.
Use January to see your predicted blood sugar before you eat
To check the glycemic index of over 32M foods, as well as see your predicted blood sugar response before you eat them, use the January app. It’s completely free to download and use and it provides you with a treasure trove of nutritional and glucose insights to help you achieve your health goals.
FAQs about Idli Sambar
Does the fermentation time of the idli batter affect its glycemic index?
Yes, the fermentation time of the idli batter can impact its glycemic index. Longer fermentation periods can break down carbohydrates into simpler sugars, potentially raising the glycemic index. Conversely, a shorter fermentation period might result in a lower glycemic index. It's worth experimenting with fermentation times to see its effect on blood sugar levels.
Is there a difference in the glycemic index of idli sambar based on the type of lentils used in the sambar?
Absolutely, the type of lentils used in the sambar can influence the overall glycemic index. For example, using toor dal (split pigeon peas) might result in a higher glycemic index compared to moong dal (split yellow lentils), which has a lower glycemic index. Swapping the lentils in your sambar could be a useful strategy to manage blood sugar levels.
How does the consumption of idli sambar at breakfast compare to dinner in terms of glycemic impact?
Consuming idli sambar for breakfast versus dinner can indeed have different glycemic impacts. In the morning, your body's insulin sensitivity is typically higher, meaning it can handle carbohydrates more efficiently, potentially lowering the glycemic impact. Eating it for dinner, when insulin sensitivity can be lower, might result in a higher glycemic response. Therefore, timing your meal can make a difference in blood sugar management.
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