The Glucose Goddess Method
One of the more recent dietary trends that are making headlines is the “Glucose Goddess” approach which is intended to minimize blood sugar spikes. The reasoning behind this is to improve mind clarity, increase energy and reduce cravings. It’s not a weight loss scheme at its core, but focuses more on considering various food groups and in which order they are consumed.
For example, some of the recommendations include starting meals with vegetables, eating a savory breakfast or pairing protein, fat and fiber with carbs, or drinking diluted vinegar before a sweet treat can minimize a glucose spike.
Old things become new again
What is interesting is that this social media fueled trend, like other trends that have gone viral, fall in line with “old things has become new again” albeit in a re-packaged and flashier form. This has parallels with Ayurvedia, and it’s dietary guidelines that focuses on not only the types of food, but the order of consumption and the times you eat. While this ancient practice didn’t have blood glucose monitors, they probably used the same wisdom that some nutritional scientists go by “pay attention to how your body feels and reacts”.
Glucose Goddess Method vs Ayurveda Diet
Both the Glucose Goddess approach and Ayurveda recommend hydration. Where they differ is the type of hydration. The Goddess approach is to avoid sugar, so a Diet Coke is better than Orange Juice. Nutritionally, Diet Coke is in some ways worse because of its effects on gut health and increases cravings. But why not avoid the sugar and go with a healthier option?
The Ayurverdic approach is to drink herbal tea between meals. Not only does it hydrate, but it also pumps the body with low doses of “liquid medicine”, curbs snack cravings, and keeps your digestive system primed. There are a number of teas that are associated with blood sugar regulation that can easily compliment the Glucose Goddess approach, with zero sugar and without the side effects of something like Diet Coke.
Glucose Goddess Tea Recommendations
There are hundreds of different teas, so we've come up with some recommendations that would make an ideal Glucose Goddess tea.
Hibiscus Tea
Antioxidant Properties: Hibiscus tea is rich in antioxidants, including flavonoids and anthocyanins. These antioxidants help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, which can be beneficial for managing blood sugar levels. Research indicates that consuming hibiscus tea may help lower blood sugar levels. It may inhibit the activity of certain enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism, leading to a slower release of sugars into the bloodstream.
Try these teas:
Raspberry Cherry Compote, Casablanca, Blood Orange, Strawberry Guava
Cinnamon Teas
Cinnamon has been found to improve insulin sensitivity and help regulate blood sugar levels. It may also slow down the digestion of carbohydrates, leading to a more gradual release of glucose into the bloodstream.
Try this tea:
Ashwagandha Teas
Glucose Metabolism: Research indicates that ashwagandha may enhance glucose metabolism. It may increase glucose uptake by cells and improve glycogen storage, leading to better blood sugar control.
Try this tea:
Purple Tea
Contains Anthocyanins – Antioxidants found in “purple” foods such as red cabbage.
Try this tea:
Green Tea
Green tea is rich in antioxidants called catechins, which have been associated with various health benefits, including blood sugar regulation. It may help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce postprandial blood sugar spikes.
Try our green teas:
Greek Mountain Tea
Some studies have suggested that Greek Mountain tea may have anti-diabetic effects. It may help improve insulin sensitivity and enhance glucose metabolism, which can contribute to better blood sugar regulation.
Try these teas:
Pu-erh Tea
Insulin Sensitivity: Limited experimental studies on animals have shown that Pu-erh tea may improve insulin sensitivity. Insulin sensitivity refers to how effectively cells respond to insulin, a hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels.
Try this tea:
Glucose Goddess Conclusion
The Glucose goddess makes some compelling claims, some of which match up with existing nutritional wisdom. Other claims could be considered pseudo scientific. What will be more compelling, is a massive study underway that will monitor all sorts of vitals (including glucose) of a large group of individuals under controlled conditions following different diets. When this study is complete, we are sure to get a bigger picture at how various foods and beverages contribute to health outcomes.
