Doctor recommends five Christmas leftovers to help control blood sugar

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If you're wondering about the best way to use up your Christmas leftovers, their benefits might surprise you. One doctor claims that certain yuletide food can positively impact blood sugar levels.

From a spoonful of cranberry sauce to a portion of our much-loved roasties, some festive staples could keep you satiated longer. Against the odds, the humble roast spud, often snubbed for its health creds, takes centre stage in the battle of the leftovers.

Speaking to Express.co.uk, Dr Sunni Patel from Dish Dash Deets said: "If you're aiming to manage blood sugar levels while enjoying Christmas leftovers, consider including these options in your meals."

Roast potatoes

Usually, tatties don't get much praise for supporting stable blood sugar, but according to Dr Patel, cold leftover roasties may be an exception, reports Gloucestershire Live.

He noted that letting spuds cool down before you munch on them enhances their resistant starch levels - a dietary fibre that helps digestion mainly in the colon and doesn't wreak havoc on blood sugar.

"Resistant starch is minimally digested in the small intestine, resulting in a slower release of glucose into the bloodstream," he advised. "This slower digestion and absorption help prevent sharp spikes in blood sugar levels."

Moreover, resistant starch is linked with better insulin sensitivity, which is vital for blood sugar regulation.

"Better insulin sensitivity means that cells respond more effectively to insulin, enabling better blood sugar control," added Dr Patel.

Turkey

Dr Patel has emphasised the importance of lean proteins, such as turkey, for those keeping an eye on their blood sugar levels. "They are low in saturated fat and help keep you full without causing significant blood sugar spikes," he noted.

Protein is beneficial as it slows down the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates, leading to a more gradual increase in blood sugar. Adding protein to your meals can enhance satiety and reduce the glycaemic impact of your food.

Vegetables

When it comes to vegetables, non-starchy ones like broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and leafy greens are particularly good for blood sugar control due to their fibre content.

Dr Patel explained: "They are high in fibre, which slows down the absorption of sugars and promotes a steady release of glucose into the bloodstream. The fibre content also contributes to feelings of fullness and helps control overall calorie intake."

Cranberries

Cranberries, too, are a smart choice for those monitoring their blood sugar, especially when used in sauces that are made with natural sweeteners and kept low in sugar.

"Cranberries are rich in antioxidants and fibre, which can have a positive impact on blood sugar control," Dr Patel pointed out.

Nuts

Hidden at the bottom of your stocking, nuts provide healthy fats, protein, and fibre, which can help slow down the absorption of sugar.

“The combination of these nutrients helps slow down the digestion of carbohydrates and reduces the overall glycaemic response to a meal,” Dr Patel added.

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