Best Flour for Diabetes: Know Your Options

Which flour is good for diabetes?

Written by

Team Diabesmart

Medically Reviewed
Vibhuti Jain

Nutrition Consultant | R&D Head

The choice of flour is crucial for managing diabetes. Different flours affect blood sugar levels differently. Factors like fiber and carbs should be considered. Understanding flour types can aid in diabetes management.

Benefits of Low Glycemic Index Flour

The use of low glycemic index (GI) flour offers several potential benefits, particularly for individuals concerned about managing their blood sugar levels, promoting overall health, and preventing chronic diseases. Here are some of the benefits of incorporating low GI flour into the diet:

Blood sugar management: Low GI flour causes a gradual increase in blood sugar levels, preventing spikes and crashes, crucial for diabetes management.

Weight management: Low GI foods made with low GI flour are filling, promoting satiety and reducing overeating, aiding in weight control.

Energy levels: Low GI flour provides sustained energy, enhancing focus and productivity, and supporting physical performance.

Heart health: Low GI diets with low GI flour may improve lipid profiles and insulin sensitivity, lowering cardiovascular disease risk.

Digestive health: Low GI flour, rich in fiber, supports digestive function, preventing constipation and promoting a healthy gut.

Nutrient density: Low GI flours are nutrient-rich, offering essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and healthy fats for overall health.

Top 5 flours good for diabetes:

Almond Flour

Benefits of almond flour for diabetes:

  • Low carbohydrate content helps in managing blood sugar levels effectively

  • High in healthy fats and protein, which can increase satiety and prevent extreme spikes in blood sugar after meals

  • Lower glycemic index compared to refined wheat flour, resulting in a less significant impact on blood sugar levels

Coconut Flour

  • Low glycemic index to minimize impact on blood sugar levels

  • High fiber content promotes satiety and helps regulate blood sugar spikes

  • Naturally gluten-free, suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease

Chickpea Flour

Chickpea flour, also known as gram flour or besan, offers several advantages for individuals with diabetes. Here are some key benefits:

  • Low Glycemic Index: Chickpea flour has a low glycemic index, which means it raises blood sugar levels slowly, helping to maintain stable blood glucose levels.

  • Rich in Fiber: Chickpea flour is a good source of dietary fiber, which can aid in blood sugar regulation by slowing down the absorption of glucose.

  • High in Protein: Protein-rich foods like chickpea flour can help improve satiety, reduce cravings, and support blood sugar control.

  • Nutrient-Dense: Chickpea flour is packed with essential nutrients like magnesium, which is important for insulin function and blood sugar regulation.

  • Versatile and Tasty: Chickpea flour can be used in various recipes to create delicious and diabetic-friendly meals without compromising on taste or texture.

Oat Flour

  • Low glycemic index helps regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.

  • Rich in fiber, aiding in controlling blood sugar spikes and promoting digestive health.

  • May help lower cholesterol levels, reduce the risk of heart disease, and support weight management.

Spelt Flour

  • Low Glycemic Index: Spelt flour has a low glycemic index, which means it doesn't cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels.

  • Rich in Fiber: Spelt flour is rich in dietary fiber, which aids in blood sugar management by slowing down the absorption of sugar.

  • Nutrient-Dense: Spelt flour contains nutrients such as magnesium, which plays a role in regulating blood sugar levels.

Glycemic Index of Flours

Glycemic Index of Flour

Type of Flour

Source

70 - 85

White wheat flour

Wheat

50 - 70

Whole wheat flour

Wheat

Below 70

Whole grain flour

Various grains (e.g., barley, oats)

0 - 20

Almond flour

Almonds

45 - 55

Coconut flour

Coconut

45 - 55

Buckwheat flour

Buckwheat

53 - 55

Quinoa flour

Quinoa

54 - 77

Spelt flour

Spelt wheat

65

Amaranth flour

Amaranth seeds

60 - 70

Barley flour

Barley

50 - 62

Brown rice flour

Brown rice

33 - 43

Chickpea flour (besan)

Chickpeas

21 - 30

Lentil flour

Lentils

40 - 50

Rye flour

Rye

65 - 70

Tapioca flour

Cassava (Tapioca root)

70 - 75

Corn flour

Corn

15 - 25

Hazelnut flour

Hazelnuts

75 - 85

Potato flour

Potatoes

30 - 40

Teff flour

Teff grains

65 - 70

Chestnut flour

Chestnuts

60 - 70

Sorghum flour

Sorghum grains

22 - 35

Green pea flour

Green peas

70 - 80

Millet flour

Millet grains

33 - 43

Chickpea flour (gram flour)

Chickpeas

65 - 70

Cassava flour

Cassava root

45 - 55

Oat flour

Oats

25 - 50

Soy flour

Soybeans

40 - 50

Sunflower seed flour

Sunflower seeds

Flours to Avoid/ use Less in Diabetes

When managing diabetes, it's essential to be mindful of the types of flours you consume. While some flours may be suitable for diabetics in moderation, others should be used sparingly due to their impact on blood sugar levels. Here are some flours to consider using less often if you have diabetes:

  1. White Flour: White flour has a high glycemic index, meaning it can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. Consider switching to whole wheat flour or other whole grain alternatives for better blood sugar control.

  2. Cake Flour: Cake flour is highly processed and refined, making it less nutritious and more likely to raise blood sugar levels quickly. Opt for almond flour, coconut flour, or other low-carb flours for baking diabetic-friendly treats.

  3. Rice Flour: Rice flour is another high-glycemic option that can lead to blood sugar spikes. Try using quinoa flour, buckwheat flour, or chickpea flour instead for a lower glycemic impact.

By making small changes to the types of flours you use, you can better manage your blood sugar levels and support your overall health as a diabetic individual.

Bottom Line:

In the conclusion of this blog about choosing the right flour for diabetes management, it is essential to consider the various flour options available and personalize your choice based on individual needs. When it comes to managing diabetes, selecting the best flour can have a significant impact on blood sugar levels and overall health.

Among the different flour options discussed in the blog - whole wheat flour, almond flour, and coconut flour - each offers unique benefits for diabetics. Whole wheat flour provides essential nutrients and fiber, which can help regulate blood sugar levels. Almond flour, on the other hand, is low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats, making it a suitable choice for those looking to control their blood sugar. Coconut flour, with its low glycemic index, is another great option for diabetes management.

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References

This Blog post is an initiative by DiabeSmart, to provide accurate and Nutritionist / Doctor approved information related to Diabetes. DiabeSmart is India's first Food brand designed specifically for Diabetics, that has been clinically tested on Diabetics and Pre-Diabetics to deliver 55% - 70% lower Sugar spikes. DiabeSmart is part of Lo! Foods - India's leading brand for Everyday Functional Health foods.

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Disclaimer

The content of this article is compiled information from generic and public sources. It is in no way a substitute, suggestion, or advice for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. Bajo Foods does not claim responsibility for this information.

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