Ask Ayurveda

FREE! Ask Ayurvedic Doctors 24/7

Get expert answers from certified doctors anytime

Fast responses
1000+ verified doctors
/
/
/
does poha increase blood sugar
Nutrition
Question #23945
332 days ago
614

does poha increase blood sugar - #23945

Anna
FREE

I am really puzzled about something! I love having poha for breakfast, but I’ve been keeping an eye on my blood sugar since my doctor mentioned that I might be pre-diabetic last month. I’ve cut down on a lot of carbs and stuff but, honestly, I can't resist that fluffy, spiced poha! 😩 The other day, I had a particularly big serving, and then I felt kind of off afterward. Like, my energy dipped and it was super weird. I’m just wondering, does poha increase blood sugar? I read somewhere that rice can spike blood sugar levels, but I thought poha was different since it's flattened rice... but now I'm doubting myself. Could it really be affecting my levels that much? Also, should I be pairing it with something, like protein or fiber, to balance it out? Or maybe I should just let it go altogether? If there are alternatives, I’m all ears! I just want to make sure I’m doing the right thing here. Thanks for any advice!

Question is closed
Writing an explanation of your symptoms through Ayurveda...
Analyzing through Ayurvedic framework0%

Doctors' responses

Poha, made from flattened rice, can indeed affect blood sugar levels; its impact can vary based on portion size and how it’s prepared. Typically, being made from rice, poha does contain carbohydrates, which can cause a rise in blood sugar. It’s similar to rice in that sense, though some people might experience different spikes based on how their body responds.

Since you mentioned having a large serving, it’s possible that the quantity contributed to the energy dip you experienced. One way to mitigate that is by incorporating some additional ingredients that slow down the carb absorption and balance insulin response. You can try adding vegetables like peas or carrots, and even top it off with some nuts or seeds. This increases the fiber and healthy fat content, which might reduce the blood sugar spike.

Considering your pre-diabetic status, pairing poha with protein like boiled eggs, paneer, or even some chickpeas can be beneficial. Protein helps in regulating the release of glucose into your bloodstream, so this could help manage those weird energy dips you mentioned.

If you’re looking for alternatives or variations, you can try using red or brown rice poha instead, which have a lower glycemic index than white rice poha. As for completely letting go of poha, that may not be necessary unless you notice it’s consistently causing issues. Moderation, rather than elimination, might be the key.

Keep an eye on how you feel after meals and monitor your blood sugar levels closely. If poha causes consistent spikes, consult with an endocrinologist or a nutritionist for personalized advice. Don’t ignore the doctor’s advice, and maintain any other dietary adjustments recommended for your pre-diabetes.

13581 answered questions
30% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies

About our doctors

Only qualified ayurvedic doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Is it safe to add curd to dal rice paste for fermentation to make dhokla?
How to create an Ayurvedic meal plan for Kapha-Pitta with high Vata after Panchakarma treatment?
How long can I safely take fenugreek water and soaked seeds for digestion and blood sugar regulation?
What are some meals I can eat for fat loss at 18 years old and 64 kg?
Can I mix papaya seeds and bananas together for health benefits, and what happens if I take them 3 times a week?
Is drinking diluted white vinegar with green tea, lemon, and hot water good for my health?
How to choose between Ashwagandha root powder and extract powder?
How to use Shatavari for height increase in a 19-year-old girl?
Is it healthy to cook chicken with yogurt or should I use tomatoes instead?
How to use Kali Mirch, Baheda, and Magpipal powder for weight loss — should I take it after meals or on an empty stomach?
How quickly do chia seeds soaked in water leave the stomach and affect nutrient absorption?
How to increase appetite and gain weight after delivery when nothing seems to help?
What happens if I don't rinse barley before cooking with lemon juice and honey?
Guidance on Taking Ghee and Turmeric
How to improve nutrition and protein intake for a 54-year-old with digestion issues and low appetite?
Best Powder for Increasing Weight
How to increase my height at 23 years old with a good diet?
How to use medicine for weight loss while going to the gym for a 5'7" female weighing 82 kg?
How to feed my autistic child with fatty liver who refuses to exercise and has lost weight from 110 to 96 kilos?
What can I eat for high cholesterol and fatty liver at 48 years old?
Is it safe to eat curd with seeds and oats in the morning?
Is a peanut and decaf coffee blend with oat milk a good protein drink for older Vata types in warm South India?
Struggling with Nutritional Absorption and Gut Health
Can I take supplements for weight gain while breastfeeding my 1.5-year-old baby?
How to use shilajit herb for health benefits and what dosage is recommended?
How can I safely increase my weight and improve skin elasticity?
Can I eat murabba with papaya for breakfast to aid digestion?
Can I cook bitter gourd with raw mango, and is this combination safe?
How to increase my 15-year-old daughter's weight with Ayurvedic foods or herbs?
How to use Shatavari for height increase at 19 years old?
How can I increase my height after puberty with a vegetarian diet?
Do Chia Seeds with Lemon Juice Increase Body Heat?
What foods should I eat or avoid with a Pitta constitution and abdominal pain after spicy foods?
How to gain weight safely without side effects and improve skin health?
How to quickly increase my 2.5-year-old child's hemoglobin level from 10?
How much Moringa powder should a 17-year-old take for height increase and can it be taken with other medications for fungal infection?
When should a diabetic person consume panner phool, before or after meals?
What to do for bloating, low appetite, and weak stomach muscles with a weight of 48 kg?
Best Foods to Reduce Belly Fat
Can I reduce Drakshadi Kashaya dosage from 4 tsp to 2 tsp without losing effectiveness?
Seeking Authentic Chyawanprash for Skin, Hair, and Well-being
How to lose weight quickly without a diet plan?
Diet Plan for Healthy Weight Gain at Age 14
How to use Varanasi Kadayam for weight loss and how long should I take it?
What are some cooling foods like chia seeds for a TCM heat damp clearing detox diet?
How to increase my weight when I've been underweight for 2 years despite eating well?
Plant-Based Diet for Muscle Gain and Energy
Can I drink watermelon juice after curd without losing its benefits?
Morning Drink: Ginger Turmeric Honey vs Ajwain Sauf Jeera Water
How to make and use moringa leaf powder, and what are its benefits and side effects?
What are the benefits of fennel seeds and how to make fennel water for weight loss?
Can I give honey to my child and how much is safe for children and diabetics?
How to help my 13-year-old son lose body fat and promote height growth safely?
How to use Tulsi seeds for digestive health and parasite cleansing?
How to create Asian meals for a firmer belly after menopause at 69?
How to increase appetite and gain weight for a 36-year-old with low appetite?
What to feed my 4-year-old daughter to help her become mentally and physically strong after meningitis and seizures?
What is the best Pitta dosha diet plan and what foods should I avoid?
Is it safe to drink fennugreek seed water twice a day?
Is it safe to eat soaked chia seeds and drink cucumber juice every day?
How to Consume Black Sesame Seeds for Health Benefits?
How to reduce belly fat with Ayurveda for someone with a sedentary IT job?
Seeking Guidance for Healthy Weight Gain
How to use Ashwagandha in baking recipes for bread and cookies?
How to gain weight with a strong appetite and Vata Pitta prakriti?
How to use navel oiling for fast weight loss and brighter skin at 17?
What is the best time to eat fresh fruit and how long should I wait before having dairy?
How to use Alfa Alfa tonic for weight gain during periods?
Diet Suggestions for Weight Gain Without Wheat, Dairy, and Sugar
How to cleanse my gut and gain weight with food intolerances?
How to increase height for a 15-year-old girl who is 139 cm tall?
How to Manage Weight Loss and Abdominal Bloating After Delivery?
How to lose weight fast for a 17-year-old girl using Ayurvedic options?
How to use Satavari for weight gain during breastfeeding and how long can I take it?
Best Supplements for Low Iron and Weak Digestion
What foods can help boost metabolism and reduce belly fat naturally?
When is the best time to consume chia seeds for managing blood sugar, and how do I use them effectively?
Seeking Help to Increase Weight at Age 50
How to help my 18-month-old daughter gain weight when she's eating well but not gaining?
What Ayurvedic medicines like leghyams can help me gain weight in a month?
How to help my 21-month-old child gain weight and reduce frequent potty after eating?
How to convert 40cc of AMLA juice to the equivalent amount of AMLA powder?
How to gain weight at 19 years old with a height of 165cm and weight of 47kg?
How long before dinner should I take Ayurvedic weight supplement and is it harmful?
Is it safe to heat curd when making idli or appam with suji?
How to lose weight with an Ayurvedic diet if I eat a lot due to anxiety?
Best Anti-Inflammatory Oils and Teas for Pitta Dosha
What diet should I follow after fasting to stay healthy and gain weight?
Seeking Ayurvedic Treatment for Vitamin D Deficiency
How to eat muli (radish) with yogurt for best health benefits?
What are the best supplements for a breastfeeding mother to maintain wellness, and can I take Krishna’s Thyrocare Juice or Patanjali Thyrogrit while breastfeeding?
How to use Shilajit herb for health benefits and what is the recommended dosage?
Is it safe to mix different types of millets for sprouting and making powder?
Managing My Son's Prediabetes and Fatty Liver
How to combine foods according to Ayurvedic principles for better health?
How to Balance My Dosha Naturally?
Do Chia Seeds Help with Weight Loss?
Seeking a Safe Weight Loss Plan for Abdominal and Thigh Fat
What is the difference between turbinado sugar and white sugar, and how does sharkara sugar compare?
Nutritional Deficiencies and Mood Issues

Doctors online

Latest reviews

Nora
7 hours ago
This answer really cleared things up for me. The advice feels spot on, and I appreciate the clear explanation. Thanks for the help!
This answer really cleared things up for me. The advice feels spot on, and I appreciate the clear explanation. Thanks for the help!
Kayden
11 hours ago
Thanks for breaking it down so clearly! I was worried, but your explanation really helped me understand what steps to take next. Appreciate it!
Thanks for breaking it down so clearly! I was worried, but your explanation really helped me understand what steps to take next. Appreciate it!
Paul
15 hours ago
Thanks! That was super helpful and clear. Your advice on what to try and avoid really resonated with me. Feeling more optimistic now!
Thanks! That was super helpful and clear. Your advice on what to try and avoid really resonated with me. Feeling more optimistic now!
Mateo
20 hours ago
Thanks a bunch! I found this answer super helpful - exactly the kind of practical advice I needed. Will def give those a try. 🌿
Thanks a bunch! I found this answer super helpful - exactly the kind of practical advice I needed. Will def give those a try. 🌿