Chicory as one of the healthiest drinks for diabetes

Diabetes mellitus is such a common disease that there is hardly a person who has not heard of it or does not know that diabetes is manifested by elevated levels of sugar (glucose) in the blood. But not everyone suspects how dangerous it is. The fact is that diabetes has been the leading cause of death in the world for many decades. And every year the situation not only does not improve, but only gets worse. So, if you look at the report of the World Health Organization, the numbers are simply terrifying: between 2000 and 2021, mortality from diabetes increased by 70% and in 2021 amounted to 1.5 million people. That is, this is more than the new coronavirus infection claimed in a year. Moreover, 85% of these were patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. But many people take this disease as an almost “normal condition” that does not require special attention. In fact, it is long-term neglect of diabetes that leads to such sad consequences.

Composition and medicinal properties

The glycemic index of the chicory drink is 30 units, calorie content is 23 kcal.
per 100 grams This means that the plant is easily digestible, does not overload the pancreas and does not require additional insulin production, which is very important for diabetics. The beneficial substances contained in the plant are given in the table:

general information

Chicory is a herbaceous perennial plant of the Asteraceae family.
Widely distributed in Europe, North Africa and America. Found in meadows, arable lands, roadsides. It has a long (30-100 cm) tap-shaped root, a stem 60-90 cm high. The flowers are medium-sized, bright blue or light blue. There are 8 common types of chicory. The valuable part of the plant is the root. It contains many substances and microelements that are beneficial to health. It is used to produce extracts or ground powder.

Drinks that resemble coffee in taste and appearance are prepared from chicory and consumed with milk, sugar or berry syrups. It is possible to use powders in the manufacture of confectionery products. Chicory is recommended for people who are contraindicated to consume caffeine.

Composition of chicory root

The root of the plant contains polysaccharides, tannins, resins, vitamins, and microelements:

1. The polysaccharide inulin (share - 50-65%) affects blood sugar levels and normalizes carbohydrate metabolism.
2. Vitamins (A, C, group B) and minerals (magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, sodium, iron, manganese, copper, selenium) provide vital processes.
3. Glycosides (intibin, lactucin, lactucopicrin) normalize metabolism and protect against pathogens.
4. Organic acids (ascorbic, chicory, malic, citric, tartaric) maintain acid-base balance and stimulate the gastrointestinal tract.

Chicory root contains vitamins and minerals.

These substances contribute to the normal functioning of the body and the treatment of a number of diseases.

Beneficial features

The presence of inulin contributes to:

• rapid absorption of glucose;
• increased synthesis of serotonin (the hormone of joy);
• improving digestion;
• strengthening bone tissue;
• lowering cholesterol levels;
• increasing body tone and immunity;
• accelerating the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates.

Chicory promotes rapid absorption of glucose and improves digestion.
Vitamins and minerals provide benefits by:

• improving the functioning of the nervous system;
• destruction of free radicals;
• preventing premature aging;
• increasing endurance;
• improving reproductive functions;
• regulation of the thyroid gland.

Chicory during pregnancy and lactation

Beneficial properties of bean leaves for diabetes
Since chicory has a beneficial effect on the circulatory and cardiovascular systems, reduces the level of glycemia, increases the level of hemoglobin, is able to “purify” the blood and promotes its rapid renewal, many doctors recommend that pregnant women drink this drink.

After conception, the embryo begins to develop. At the first stage, it intensively “empties” the mother’s reserves when it directly feeds on the mother’s reserves, therefore the consumption of all nutrients in the woman’s body doubles.

Consequently, the amount of carbohydrates consumed by the mother will be several times less. Therefore, in the first days of pregnancy, women who already have type 2 or type 1 diabetes before pregnancy or who have recently been diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus experience false normoglycemia.

Healthy women may experience hypoglycemia due to a lack of glucose. Add here also toxicosis, which is not averse to making friends with a pregnant woman and pursuing her almost until delivery.

If in this state a woman drinks chicory, which lowers glycemia, the effect will be double!

Thus, it is advisable to use chicory drinks before pregnancy and after the birth of a baby to improve heart function, normalize stool (solar herb is an excellent remedy for constipation), reduce cholesterol and glycemia levels, and also recover faster after childbirth, when extra pounds have been gained.

When breastfeeding, chicory can be drunk by women whose milk contains a lot of lipids, i.e. if it's too greasy. The root of the plant reduces the amount of fats found in food, removing them from the body. A similar effect is achieved from orlistat - anti-obesity pills, which, however, cannot be taken during pregnancy, lactation and breastfeeding.

How to drink chicory for diabetes

Can you drink coffee if you have diabetes?

All parts of the plant are edible. Chicory for diabetes is eaten and used as a medicine in the following way.

• As a drink instead of coffee. The recommended intake of chicory for type 1 diabetes is 1 cup per day, for type 2 diabetes – no more than 2 cups per day.
• A small amount of this herb powder is added to juices and salads.
• As infusions. Infuse 1 teaspoon of ground herb in a glass of boiling water for at least an hour. Drink 1/2 glass before meals 3 times a day.
• In the form of decoctions. Boil the ground roots (one teaspoon) in 2 glasses of water for about 15 minutes. After 1-2 hours, the resulting liquid can be drunk. Take half a glass three times a day before meals.

CLINICAL CASE STUDY

Patient N., 38 years old, employee

9th December

The patient was hospitalized in the therapeutic department with complaints of cough with mucous sputum, weakness, shortness of breath on exercise, general weakness, sweating and loss of appetite, increased body temperature to 39.0–39.5 °C.

Medical history

He considers himself sick since the beginning of November, when the cough persisted for a long time after suffering from acute respiratory viral infection. She was treated independently with home remedies, amoxicillin, bromhexine, Coldrex with variable effect. The body temperature began to rise again.

Objective examination data

Moderate condition. Height - 168 cm, weight - 65 kg. The body is correct. The constitution is normosthenic. Subcutaneous fatty tissue is developed normally and evenly distributed. The skin is clean, pale, with normal moisture. Visible mucous membranes are moist and of normal color. There is no swelling. Lymph nodes are not enlarged. The thyroid gland is not enlarged. Breathing through the nose is free and rhythmic. NPV - 20 per minute. Chest breathing type. The shape of the chest is regular, cylindrical, symmetrical. During auscultation of the lungs, breathing is carried out in all parts, evenly weakened, small bubbles of moist scattered rales are heard, in a small amount. Percussion: dullness of percussion sound in the lower parts of the lungs on both sides.

Heart sounds are muffled, the rhythm is correct. Percussion: the boundaries of the heart are not expanded. Heart rate - 90 per minute. Blood pressure 130/80 mm Hg. Art.

Tongue is wet. The abdomen is soft, painless on palpation. The liver is at the edge of the costal arch, the spleen is not enlarged. Physiological functions are normal.

Data from laboratory and instrumental research methods

In the general blood test: leukocytes - 12.9; ESR - 30 mm/h.

Biochemical blood test: CRP - 18. Other indicators are within normal limits.

R-graphy of the chest organs shows a picture of bilateral polysegmental pneumonia.

Conclusion: bilateral polysegmental pneumonia.

Drug treatment

The patient was prescribed antibacterial and bronchodilator therapy.

Diet therapy

An individual diet was prescribed.

For the first four days, the 1st and 2nd rations of the alkalizing diet were prescribed.

Sample menu for diet 1:

Breakfast: tea with milk and sugar (200.0); boiled rice with vegetables (190).

11 o'clock: carrot juice (100.0).

Lunch: pureed vegetable soup with meat and sour cream (435.0/10.0).

16 hours: coffee with milk (200.0), bran cookies (30.0).

Dinner: fresh vegetable salad with sour cream (150.0); weak broth with egg flakes (100.0).

At night: rosehip decoction with sugar (200.0).

The second diet adds 50 g of white salt-free bread and 25 g of butter.

The first and second treatment diets contain 24 g of dry protein composite mixture daily.

12 December

Against the background of the therapy, the patient’s condition showed positive dynamics. Relatively satisfactory. Sputum comes out well. Body temperature 37.2 °C. Weakness has decreased. Sweating continues. The auscultatory picture is the same.

Diet therapy

Nutrition is carried out according to the third and fourth rations.

Sample menu for the third diet:

Breakfast: tea with sugar and apple (200.0); baked potatoes (100.0); sour cream (30.0); steam omelette (60.0).

11 hours: salt-free bread (25.0); oil (10.0); berry juice (200.0).

Lunch: pureed vegetable soup with rice (500.0); steamed meat cutlets (100.0); stewed carrots (120.0); blackcurrant compote (200.0).

16 hours: baked apple (100.0).

Dinner: cabbage cutlets with sour cream (190), boiled egg (1 pc.).

At night: rosehip decoction with sugar (200.0).

The third treatment diet includes 24 g of dry protein composite mixture daily.

Reduces sugar levels

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The root contains inulin, a natural polysaccharide that gives the drink a sweetish taste. The mass of chicory powder contains up to 40 percent inulin. It's difficult to find a product that has more of it.

Inulin is sweeter than sugar and fructose, but does not increase blood glucose levels. Regular consumption of the drink helps reduce sugar levels, which is due to the effect of inulin on the body. The substance increases the sensitivity of pancreatic cells to glucose and stimulates insulin production.

Chicory root powder contains 40 percent valuable inulin (Photo: Pixabay.com)

In the intestines, inulin serves as food for beneficial bacteria - bifidumbacteria. They are responsible for proper digestion, suppress pathogenic microflora and support the body's immune defense. Bifidumbacteria absorb inulin and actively multiply. Healthy microflora reduces the absorption of sugars in the intestines and reduces the penetration of toxins released by pathogenic bacteria into the blood.

What is recommended to avoid?

Prohibited foods for pancreatitis include those that are difficult and take a long time to digest, and are also strong irritants of the gastrointestinal tract and, accordingly, the pancreas:

• rich meat, fish and mushroom broths and soups;
• smoked varieties of sausages and smoked products in general;
• canned food and marinades;
• fresh baked goods and bread;
• spinach, sorrel, garlic, radish, radish;
• raw vegetables;
• vinegar, mustard, pepper;
• hot and spicy sauces and seasonings;
• alcohol, strong tea and coffee.

This list is general; it can be expanded due to the characteristics of the body, the course of the disease, the form of pancreatitis (acute or chronic in remission), as well as the age and nutritional status of the patient.

Possible harm

Some experts consider chicory not a very useful plant, which under certain circumstances can be harmful to health. For example:

• Cause additional stress on the cardiovascular system, pressure surges and even arrhythmia (only when drinking the drink with milk). Despite the fact that this combination of products seems quite normal, it is better to drink these two drinks separately from each other.
• If taken uncontrolled, chicory can negatively affect the functioning of the liver and nervous system, causing severe overexcitation in some people.
• In some categories of people, consuming chicory can lead to increased appetite.
• Chicory has the property of making human blood thicker, which is unsafe for people suffering from thrombosis.

In any case, the benefits and harms of chicory depend 100% on the quantities in which a person consumes it. The optimal dosage is no more than 1 glass of chicory drink per day. Otherwise, the miraculous plant may turn out to be very unhelpful and even harmful.

In order for chicory to bring only benefit to the body, but not harm, its consumption should be properly organized

If you have the slightest suspicion of a negative effect of the herb on the body, it is important to stop taking it as soon as possible and seek advice from a specialist.

Treatment with chicory

As already mentioned, chicory is recommended for use in diabetes mellitus due to its ability to normalize blood glucose levels. For this reason, it can be used not only for prevention, but also for the treatment of type 1 and 2 diseases.

In type 2 of the disease, chicory helps to quickly reduce blood sugar when it rises rapidly. For type 1 diabetes, it is used to reduce the dose of the main drug.

Despite the fact that all parts of the plant are beneficial for diabetics, the root is still the most valuable. Its consumption in diabetes plays an important role in the prevention and treatment of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

Experts' opinion

Chicory is used by pharmaceutical companies in the manufacture of medicines, because
its medicinal properties have been clinically confirmed. Endocrinologists recommend taking drinks from the medicinal plant for diabetics, because. the polysaccharide inulin has a pronounced effect on blood glucose levels. A 2015 study (published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine) confirmed that the plant's root extract prevents or delays the development of diabetes. Participants in the experiment observed an increase in the level of adiponectin, which regulates the proportion of sugar in the blood.

Nutritionists recommend taking chicory to those who want to lose excess weight. The substances it contains speed up metabolism and suppress appetite.

Description of the plant

The herbaceous plant common chicory (lat. Cichorium intybus) is a perennial with a straight branched stem and beautiful blue flowers. The habitat covers the entire territory of the former Soviet Union. In pharmacognosy and the food industry, the stem, leaves, roots, flowers and seeds are used.

The root part contains up to 45% of the carbohydrate inulin, which is credited with healing properties in reducing sugar levels and normalizing carbohydrate metabolism.

In addition to this substance, chicory contains such useful substances as the bitter glucoside intibin, resin, sugar, protein substances, glucoside chicoryin, lactucin, lactucopicrin, vitamins A, C, E, B, PP, pectin and microelements (magnesium, potassium, sodium, and also iron).

Interesting Facts

1. The first mentions of the healing properties of chicory can be found in the treatises of the legendary ancient scientists (medics) Avicenna and Dioscorides.
2. In Central Asia, small children are washed in a strong decoction of this plant to prevent overheating and sunstroke.
3. The ash left over from burning chicory is mixed with sour cream to prepare a rub for eczema.

Possible harm

Some experts consider chicory not a very useful plant, which under certain circumstances can be harmful to health. For example:

• Cause additional stress on the cardiovascular system, pressure surges and even arrhythmia (only when drinking the drink with milk). Despite the fact that this combination of products seems quite normal, it is better to drink these two drinks separately from each other.
• If taken uncontrolled, chicory can negatively affect the functioning of the liver and nervous system, causing severe overexcitation in some people.
• In some categories of people, consuming chicory can lead to increased appetite.
• Chicory has the property of making human blood thicker, which is unsafe for people suffering from thrombosis.

In any case, the benefits and harms of chicory depend 100% on the quantities in which a person consumes it. The optimal dosage is no more than 1 glass of chicory drink per day. Otherwise, the miraculous plant may turn out to be very unhelpful and even harmful.

In order for chicory to bring only benefit to the body, but not harm, its consumption should be properly organized

If you have the slightest suspicion of a negative effect of the herb on the body, it is important to stop taking it as soon as possible and seek advice from a specialist.

Contraindications for diabetes

So, chicory really reduces sugar and improves body function. However, not everyone drinks it, given the more than extensive list of contraindications. First of all, the recommended amount should be one cup per day.

The product should be used with caution for diseases of the digestive system and in the presence of certain nervous disorders. For example, it has already been proven that for nervous disorders, the use of chicory will be the least beneficial

It will be possible to talk about potential harm in case of problems in the functioning of the cardiac and vascular system, as well as in case of an allergic reaction to certain components of the plant

Use the plant with caution during pregnancy and during breastfeeding. The fact is that the likelihood of harm to the fetus in this case is extremely high

Thus, the use of chicory by diabetics is more than acceptable. This drink has a positive effect on all physiological functions, and also allows you to reduce and normalize blood sugar levels. At the same time, it is recommended to take into account the peculiarities of preparing soluble and insoluble compositions, as well as contraindications.

Uses of chicory root

Diabetics can make many delicious and very healthy drinks from chicory root.

Drink from roots. Pour 30-40 g of ground chicory roots into 0.5 liters of boiling water. Place on the fire and simmer over low heat for 10-15 minutes. Then strain and cool to room temperature. This delicious drink should be drunk 1/3 glass 2-3 times a day.

Infusion from the roots. Pour 2-3 tablespoons of chicory root powder into 2 cups of boiling water and let it brew for several hours. Drink 0.5 cups up to four times a day.

Drink with chicory and milk. It is prepared in the same way as stated in the first recipe, but with the addition of milk, favorite spices and other healthy herbs.

Despite all the benefits of chicory, drinks made from it should be consumed in limited quantities so that they do not cause harm to the body.

Tincture for wiping wounds. For diabetes, chicory root is suitable not only for consumption, but also for external use. If long-term non-healing wounds appear on the surface of the skin, you can prepare the following tincture: 10-15 g of crushed grass roots are poured into a glass container with 40 ml of alcohol. Cover the container with a lid and put it in a dark place for 7-10 days. After this time, the tincture can be used for wiping sore spots for skin diseases.

Chicory - how to drink for diabetes mellitus type 1 and 2

Chicory is very useful for diabetes mellitus; it has a unique composition and beneficial properties.

It is worth knowing what components chicory consists of, what its benefits are for type 1 and type 2 diabetes, and what contraindications it may have. Below is detailed information about this.

• 1 Composition
• 2 Benefits of the drink
• 3 How to drink correctly
• 4 Contraindications

Benefits of the drink

The liquid contains a lot of inulin, which benefits the body. In dried form, chicory is used as an excellent alternative to coffee drinks. The root improves taste and smell. You can eat roots or green petals. Breeders are working to create other varieties of the plant.

Chicory juice helps fight microbes, normalizes digestion, and has a positive effect on the central nervous system and blood supply. Diabetics get a lot of benefits from it. Green petals are used to make salads.

How to drink correctly

We need to understand the types of chicory that are used for medicinal purposes today. It is more convenient to use soluble ingredients; you can purchase them at a pharmacy or other stores. Impurities of other components are used in the preparation of the instant mixture, so they cannot be called natural.

Insoluble chicory is used for diabetes types 1 and 2 or other diseases. Recipes for making drinks are different. The root and other parts of the plant are used as a base.

Popular recipes:

• A decoction is prepared from finely chopped or crushed dry root. 2 tbsp. Add 1 liter of hot water to the ingredient bed. The decoction is prepared over low heat for 15 minutes, cooled, purified, and consumed 100 ml 3 times a day before meals for 1 month.
• A simple recipe is prepared from ground root with boiling water. The mixture is cooked for 5 minutes over low heat. If you add milk, you may have problems with blood pressure.
• Tincture of chicory and other herbs. 2 tea. a bed of crushed root, mint, juniper are mixed. Add 350 g of water and infuse for 3 hours. The tincture is expressed and consumed 3 times a day before meals for 3 weeks.

You can use chicory decoction after your doctor's approval.

For type 1 diabetes

The plant is used to prevent diabetes and reduces the intensity of symptoms when complications occur.

The plant helps reduce the amount of glucose in the body, as it has a pronounced hypoglycemic effect. Therefore, it is recommended for use by patients with diabetes.

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In type 1 pathology, chicory allows you to reduce the volume of artificial insulin for injections. The intensity of changes in the amount of glucose decreases.

Diabetics have improved metabolic processes and better digestion of fats and carbohydrates. Therefore, low-calorie foods are enough to fill you up. This fact is important in the treatment of type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

For type 2 diabetes

With type 2 diabetes, problems arise with the blood supply system and the amount of oxygen in the blood decreases. Chicory helps solve this problem.

Doctors advise including chicory in the diet for type 2 diabetes. With the help of this substance it is possible to increase the amount of insulin and normalize the amount of sugar.

It is enough to drink 2 cups a day, half a teaspoon dissolves in 200 ml of water. After 3-4 weeks of daily use, a break is taken for 10 days. The endocrinologist will consult each patient individually on this matter.

The drink affects the body as follows:

• strengthens the immune system, improves blood composition;
• the nervous system works better;
• the function of the blood supply system is normalized due to the vasodilating effect.

Chicory helps eliminate inflammation, reduce fever, improves digestion and pancreatic function.

For type 2 diabetes, chicory decoction helps to lose weight and improve metabolism.

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Treatment and nutrition for pneumonia

Timely antimicrobial therapy remains the main method of treating pneumonia. According to the Clinical Guidelines for the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of severe community-acquired pneumonia in adults, developed in 2014 by the Russian Respiratory Society and the Interregional Association for Clinical Microbiology and Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, treatment begins with parenteral administration of an antibacterial drug. In this option, there is no interaction between drugs and food, and the timing of food intake in relation to the antibacterial drug does not matter. In the future, if the dynamics are positive, when transferring the patient to oral administration of an antibacterial drug, it is necessary to take into account the time of taking the drug in relation to food intake in accordance with the instructions for the drug.

Diet plays an important role in the complex of therapeutic measures.

Features of diet therapy for pneumonia

Therapeutic nutrition should contribute to the rapid resolution of the inflammatory process, detoxification of the body, increasing its immune properties and general reactivity, sparing the organs of the cardiovascular and digestive systems, and preventing possible negative effects of pharmacotherapy.

For moderate pneumonia against the background of febrile fever, the main version of the standard diet (STD) is indicated. Calorie content is reduced, mainly due to a decrease in fat, limiting table salt to 6–8 g, and increasing the calcium content due to dairy products. Reducing sodium and increasing calcium in the diet has an anti-inflammatory effect. To maintain the body’s immune defense, it is necessary to receive a sufficient amount of protein at the rate of 1 g per 1 kg of the patient’s normal body weight, of which at least 60% is of animal origin, primarily from dairy products, eggs and fish, a dry protein composite mixture (with the OVD diet this specialized product is introduced into the medical diet in accordance with the norms of therapeutic nutrition established by Order of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation dated June 21, 2013 No. 395n “On approval of norms of therapeutic nutrition”, in the amount of 27 g of the mixture daily).

To reduce intoxication, drinking plenty of fluids (1.5–2 liters or more) with a high content of vitamin C is recommended: sweet and sour fruit juices diluted with water, rosehip decoction, tea with lemon, fruit drinks, compotes. It is imperative to include fermented milk drinks in the diet (including those containing probiotics and prebiotics), which help normalize the state of intestinal microflora, which is significantly affected by systemic antibacterial therapy. The daily diet is divided into 5-6 meals, in small portions; food should be mechanically and chemically gentle.

In case of severe pneumonia, during the first 1–3 days of the disease, liquid food is preferable: tea with lemon, juices, degassed mineral water, rosehip decoction, low-fat meat broth, low-fat fermented milk drinks. At the first signs of improvement and when appetite appears, soups with broth or vegetable broth, soufflé and puree of meat, eggs, boiled fish, cottage cheese, fruit and vegetable purees, baked apples, etc. are introduced into the diet. The energy value of the diet is 1500– 1600 kcal due to a sharp restriction of fats (30–40 g), a moderate reduction in carbohydrates (250 g) and proteins (60 g). The norms of therapeutic nutrition are fulfilled according to the version of the diet with reduced calorie content (low-calorie diet, LDC). The therapeutic diet includes dry protein composite mixtures in the amount of 24 g daily. Next, the diet is built in accordance with the nutritional option for moderate pneumonia.

During the period of mild pneumonia, a diet with an increased content of calcium and vitamins, fermented milk drinks, with the exception of indigestible and very fatty foods is recommended. In addition, with low appetite during the convalescence period, use moderately salty snacks (soaked herring, cheese, ham, caviar, etc.), pickled, pickled and spicy vegetables, spices, tomato and other juices.

author: V.V. Egorova, nutritionist, Federal State Budgetary Institution State Scientific Center "Federal Medical Biophysical Center named after A.I. Burnazyan" FMBA of Russia, doctor of the highest category

Where to begin

In case of mild community-acquired pneumonia, the main version of the standard diet (STD) is prescribed with the enrichment of the diet with a dry protein composite mixture of 27 g/day (for example, when using SBCS "Diso®" "Nutrinor" the patient will receive 10.8 g of protein, which has high biological value) and the inclusion of vitamin-mineral complexes (50–100% of the physiological norm introduced by Order of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation dated June 21, 2013 No. 395n “On approval of therapeutic nutrition standards” into the therapeutic nutrition standards).

Individual approach

As with any disease, so with pneumonia, there are general principles of diet therapy, but an individual approach cannot be ruled out.

Acute period

With pneumonia with high fever, the basal metabolism increases, and the human body becomes intoxicated with waste products of microorganisms and tissue decay. The load on the cardiovascular system increases, the functional activity of the digestive organs decreases. This should be taken into account when prescribing therapeutic nutrition.

The intended purpose of diet therapy: unloading interstitial metabolism, influencing the inflammatory process and neuro-vegetative dystonia by sharply limiting sodium chloride, carbohydrates and introducing a sufficient amount of Ca salts and vitamins.

Principles of diet therapy: full provision of the body’s energy and plastic needs; increased immunological reactivity; rapid resolution of educational processes, reduction of intoxication, sparing the organs of the cardiovascular and digestive systems; prevention of possible negative effects of pharmacotherapy.

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For patients with pneumonia accompanied by high fever, a specialized antiviral desensitizing (alkalinizing) diet is recommended. In this case, depending on the patient’s condition, this diet is represented by four types of diets, compiled on the basis of standard diets (see Table 1), approved by Order of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation dated June 21, 2013 No. 395n “On approval of therapeutic nutrition standards.” These diets should include specialized food products, mixtures of dry protein composites and vitamin-mineral complexes, introduced by Order No. 395n into the norms of therapeutic nutrition. Medical nutrition standards are mandatory for all medical organizations in the Russian Federation.

Table 1. Therapeutic nutrition for a patient with pneumonia with high fever

So, on the first day of the disease, the patient is on the first and second diets, then until the 10th–12th day of the disease - on the third and fourth diets.

The diet includes a variety of foods, excluding foods with a high content of extractives and sodium chloride. Table salt is sharply limited (up to 3–5 g). Dishes are prepared taking into account mechanical sparing of the gastrointestinal tract. Decoctions of rose hips, wheat bran, fruit and berry and vegetable juices are prescribed. Diet 5-6 times a day. The diet is based on the principle of gradually increasing its nutritional value in the form of four diets.

Highly alkalizing foods include: milk, cucumbers, tomatoes, lettuce, celery, turnips, beets, raisins, fruits, citrus fruits, berries (except lingonberries). Slightly alkalizing foods include potatoes, cabbage, green peas, beans, apples, red currants.

Recovery period

During the recovery period, it is necessary to significantly increase the energy value of the daily diet (2080–2690 kcal), mainly due to the content of proteins (110–120 g), fats (80–90 g) and, to a lesser extent, carbohydrates (250–350 g) - prescribed a diet option with an increased amount of protein (high-protein diet, HPD). Enriching the diet with protein replenishes its losses during tissue breakdown, stimulates reparative processes, the production of antibodies, and prevents leukopenia. The norms of therapeutic nutrition are applied when following a high-protein diet with the inclusion of specialized food products, mixtures of dry protein composites in the volume of 36 g of the mixture (for example, when using SBKS "Diso®" "Nutrinor" - 14.4 g of protein) as part of the therapeutic diet.

An increase in the amount of table salt is allowed (up to 10–12 g); the inclusion in the diet of products that stimulate gastric secretion and exocrine activity of the pancreas (meat and fish broths, sauces, spices, seasonings, juices, etc.) is indicated. The number of meals can be reduced to 4–5 times a day.

Composition of chicory and beneficial properties

Chicory is a plant, all parts of which benefit the human body. For therapeutic purposes the following can be used:

• chicory root;
• leaves and stem;
• flowers.

The roots and leaves of chicory contain up to 60% of the polysaccharide inulin. Thanks to this, it can be used in supplement form as a sugar and starch substitute.

In addition, the plant contains:

• essential oils;
• organic acids;
• tannins;
• proteins and fats;
• vitamins of group B, A, P, C;
• such vital micro and macroelements as iron, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, choline.

In the diet of diabetics, chicory leaves are often used, which are added to all kinds of salads.

Consumption of chicory has a beneficial effect on many organs and systems of the body. We can talk about the beneficial properties of this plant endlessly. Thus, the iron and potassium contained in the plant have a positive effect on the heart and the entire cardiovascular system, making it possible to effectively combat such serious ailments as atherosclerosis, ischemia, tachycardia, vasodilation, etc.

B vitamins normalize the functioning of the nervous system, having a mild sedative effect, giving a person a charge of vigor and strength.

Regular consumption of chicory has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. People who consume chicory rarely complain of any problems with the stomach and intestines.

The plant also has a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect and ensures rapid regeneration of damaged tissues due to its antimicrobial properties.

Which chicory is better to choose?

On sale it comes in natural ground and soluble form as a powder or liquid extract.
The first contains more useful substances, the second is more convenient to use when preparing drinks. When purchasing, you should pay attention to the composition of the product, check for the presence of grains (rye, oats), acorns, etc. Additives have no practical benefit; they are used to reduce the cost of goods.

You should choose packaging with 100% medicinal plant content.

Soluble

This chicory comes in the form of powder, packaged in plastic bags, and liquid extract in jars.
The second contains a higher concentration of nutrients. It is prepared using a special root processing technology. It is dried, boiled, a base concentrate is obtained, from which a powder is subsequently made, or left in liquid form.

Upon visual inspection, the powder looks uniform, without lumps. It is hermetically packaged, because... When water gets in, lumps form and the product becomes unfit for consumption.

Instant chicory has a rich, bitter taste.

In liquid form, chicory is a thick extract of dark brown color with a rich bitter taste. It is packaged in glass jars, which are then stored at room temperature.

Ground

This chicory is obtained by drying, roasting the roots of the plant, and grinding them. Unlike instant, it has a strong aroma and contains a higher concentration of nutrients. Production technology allows us to preserve most of them unchanged.

Contraindications and harm

Typically, chicory is well tolerated in type 2 diabetes and does not cause harm if you drink it in moderation. It is forbidden to use chicory if you have stomach and duodenal ulcers, asthma, gastritis, persistent high blood pressure, vascular and vein diseases - varicose veins or hemorrhoids. Those who suffer from kidney disease should not overuse chicory. The plant has diuretic properties and can increase the load on the urinary system.

During pregnancy, drinks from the plant should be taken with caution and after consulting a doctor.

Description of the plant

The herbaceous plant common chicory (lat. Cichorium intybus) is a perennial with a straight branched stem and beautiful blue flowers. The habitat covers the entire territory of the former Soviet Union. In pharmacognosy and the food industry, the stem, leaves, roots, flowers and seeds are used.

The root part contains up to 45% of the carbohydrate inulin, which is credited with healing properties in reducing sugar levels and normalizing carbohydrate metabolism.

In addition to this substance, chicory contains such useful substances as the bitter glucoside intibin, resin, sugar, protein substances, glucoside chicoryin, lactucin, lactucopicrin, vitamins A, C, E, B, PP, pectin and microelements (magnesium, potassium, sodium, and also iron).

Why is chicory good for diabetes?

There is a reason why people resort to its help in treating diabetes. This is because the root contains fructose, which is used as a sugar substitute.

In addition, the plant is especially valued for its inulin, which creates a hypoglycemic effect in people suffering from various forms of diabetes. Its ability to lower blood sugar allows you to better monitor your glycemia and always stay within the norm, avoiding hyperglycemic spikes.

Inulin is also useful for primary signs of impaired carbohydrate metabolism (the so-called prediabetes stage), leading to impaired glucose tolerance or hypertension, hyperproteinemia.

When treating obesity against the background of metabolic syndrome, it is also recommended to drink chicory drink, since after taking it there is a decrease in total cholesterol, triglycerides, and an increase in HDL in the blood plasma.

And due to its ability to enhance the feeling of fullness, a person on a diet can more easily follow all the recommendations of a nutritionist and does not experience excessive stress when he restricts himself in food.

It can be recommended as a means for losing weight.

How to cook chicory?

To prevent diabetes mellitus, chicory is most often prepared using one of the methods described below.

Chicory tincture

Ingredients:

• dried chicory - 2 tsp;
• juniper - 2 tsp;

• mint - 2 tsp;
• rose hips - 2 tsp;
• Potentilla goose - 2 tsp;
• water - 300 ml.

Preparation:

It is necessary to take all the specified components, pour boiling water and place in a thermos to infuse for 3 hours.

Before drinking the drink, it must be strained through a sieve.

Divide the entire volume received into three doses. The tincture should be consumed before meals for 2 weeks.

Chicory decoction

Ingredients:

• dried chicory - 2 tbsp;
• water - 1 l.

Preparation:

If your chicory is not in powder form, you must first grind it to a powder state. Place chicory powder in a saucepan and add the specified volume of boiling water. Cook over low heat for 15 minutes.

When the broth is ready, it should be cooled and strained through a sieve. It is necessary to consume 15 minutes before meals, 100 ml 3 times a day.

The course of taking the decoction is 1 month.

Common drink made from chicory

A regular chicory drink, which can be found on the shelves in specialized stores or pharmacies, is as effective as tincture and decoction prepared from chicory root.

Usually, 2 tsp are taken to prepare the drink. powder and pour 200 ml of boiling water. Let it brew for 5 minutes and drink. The drink should, of course, be consumed without sugar or milk. In its natural form, it is most valuable for our body.

When I buy ready-made powder, make sure that it is really a powder from a valuable plant, and not some kind of fake. Trust only trusted stores, pharmacies and brands that produce medicinal products.

To make sure you have no contraindications for taking chicory, consult your doctor.

Recipes with chicory

Various types of drinks are prepared from the medicinal plant. They are consumed hot as an analogue of coffee or tea. Infusions and drugs are taken in doses according to the recommended treatment regimen.

Infusion

To prepare the infusion, 2 tsp. chopped root pour 1 tbsp. boiling water Let it cool completely. Then drink 1-2 sips at regular intervals throughout the day.

Chicory infusion is drunk in small doses throughout the day.

Medicinal drug

It is prepared from crushed leaves.
Pour 1 tbsp. water 1 tsp. product, boil for 15 minutes, leave for 40 minutes. The medicine can be taken for intestinal diseases. A paste of leaves is applied as a compress for inflammation of the skin and bruises. Ground chicory left over after drinking drinks is used to treat boils and boils.

Decoction

To prepare it, 1 tbsp.
crushed root, pour 200 ml of water, bring to a boil and cook for 5 minutes. Then infuse for another 30. The decoction has astringent, anti-inflammatory properties, and has a calming effect on the nervous system. It can be used as a mouth rinse for toothache and stomatitis.

Hot drink

Ground chicory is prepared in the same way as coffee. Put 2 tsp in the Turk. product, add 200-250 ml of water and bring to a boil. Leave for 3-4 minutes. Add sugar and cream to taste.

The hot drink is very reminiscent of coffee.

From soluble chicory in powder form you can prepare drinks with the addition of honey, cocoa, and milk. For this, 1-2 tsp. dilute in hot water, add ingredients to taste.

When preparing a hot drink from liquid chicory extract, it is enough to dilute 0.5-1 tsp. in 1 tbsp. boiling water You can add rosehip or blueberry syrup to it to increase the amount of vitamins.

Treatment range for common chicory

Fresh juice of young leaves is used for anemia. A water infusion or a strong decoction is recommended for use in the treatment of diseases of the kidneys, pancreas, liver and gall bladder. This is due to the actions of the plant components (antimicrobial, astringent, sedative, diuretic and choleretic). The infusion is also ideal for rinsing (lotions and baths).

The juice of the plant is used as an external remedy to treat skin pathologies that are frequent companions of diabetes:

• eczema;
• furunculosis;
• dermatitis (allergic);
• capillary hemorrhages (small hematomas);
• malignant tumors.

To prepare the solution you will need to take 2 tbsp. l. chopped dry shoots. Pour 1 liter of boiling water over them. Cook for a quarter of an hour, leave until it cools naturally. Apply the liquid externally, warm.

Chicory for type 2 diabetes can be considered a unique remedy. Aging patients often complain of joint pain, which is caused by irreversible changes in bone tissue. The shoots of the plant help alleviate suffering. They are crushed and poured with boiling water.

Solution concentration: based on 4 tbsp. l. vegetable raw materials per 100 ml of water. The steamed medicinal mass must be allowed to drain so that excess liquid is removed. Place it on gauze. Rolled up, the product at room temperature is applied to the inflamed joints twice a day.

Elderly patients who lead a sedentary lifestyle have problems in the digestive tract. They may suffer from constipation or, conversely, diarrhea. The benefit of chicory is that it restores normal intestinal functions. Helps with urinary incontinence in older people.

Benefits for patients with diabetes

The benefits of chicory are explained by the inulin it contains. This is a polysaccharide that has a complex positive effect on the entire body of any person, but for patients with high blood sugar levels it is simply not replaceable. The benefits of chicory for diabetics are as follows:

• restores and supports liver function, helps cleanse it of toxins;
• improves immunity and helps fight infectious diseases that affect patients with diabetes;
• lowers blood cholesterol levels, helps cope with atherosclerosis;
• normalizes intestinal function and restores microflora.
• helps remove toxins from the body and radionuclides, the deposition of which is characteristic of diabetes;
• reduces blood sugar levels and helps prevent sudden surges by normalizing carbohydrate metabolism;
• has an invigorating effect on the body, giving strength and energy without having a negative effect on the human nervous system.

As we can see, a person receives only benefits from chicory. There are no special contraindications for the use of this plant. It could just be personal intolerance. Well, since chicory causes a surge of energy, it is not recommended to drink it shortly before bed.

However, with chicory, as with everything in life, you need to know when to stop.

“If you put me on insulin, what am I going to do?”, diabetes is not just a disease for those with a sweet tooth

Every second Krasnoyarsk resident has heard that diabetes is a disease not only for those with a sweet tooth, but few understood the causes of this disease. Why do diabetics need insulin, what danger lies in oatmeal for them, and why it is important to keep weight under control - in an interview with Margarita Khaernasova, an endocrinologist at the Russian-Finnish medical center TERVE.

What kind of disease is diabetes?

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic non-infectious disease. It is characterized by increased levels of glucose in the blood, which occurs either due to a complete deficiency of insulin, or as a result of its incorrect interaction with the body's receptors. That is, when we talk about diabetes, we mean either type 1 diabetes, in which we do not have our own insulin, and we replace it, or type 2 diabetes, when we have our own insulin, but it does not work correctly at the level of hormones and receptors : either the receptors do not see insulin, or there are few receptors. Or there is insulin, there is a lot of it, but the receptors do not sense it well.

Type 1 diabetes is not anyone's fault—it's a genetic disorder. Most often it occurs in childhood, or immediately after birth, or before the age of 20. Now the detection limit for this type of diabetes has been increased to 35 years. But type 2 diabetes mellitus is multifactorial in nature, the threshold for its diagnosis is older people, 45 years and older. Since such patients acquire a whole baggage of chronic diseases, body weight increases, and the level of physical activity decreases.

“The question is in the tactics of treating diabetes: either we compensate for the lack of insulin, or we use medications that will improve the body’s mechanisms of sensitivity to it, or we remove excess sugar in the blood through urine”

Obese people have a several times higher risk of developing diabetes. For example, a person is not overweight, but has a parent with type 2 diabetes. And another, let’s say, was diagnosed with obesity, but his parents did not have the disease. So the likelihood of developing diabetes is higher in the second case.

Genetics plays a role, but lifestyle weighs heavily on this scale. If a person is active, eats within his normal caloric intake and consumes as much as he expends, then, despite having relatives with diabetes, he is less likely to develop this disease. And a person who has gained excess weight over 5 or 10 years and is far from any level of physical activity will most likely develop diabetes. The only question is the timing - when the body gets tired of compensating for the increase in excess body weight. “Either you are “dragging” or driving at high speed”

Adipose tissue itself is quite hormonally active and secretes a large amount of hormone-like substances. Food enters the human body and is broken down into fats, proteins and carbohydrates. In order to maintain a constant glucose level within a certain range, a compensatory body works - the pancreas secretes insulin in its own way. When a person eats more than normal, the pancreas secretes additional insulin. And when there is excess body weight, it is harder for insulin to work, because sensitivity to it decreases.

The cells of the body do not sense this insulin well, because there are fewer of them. While insulin reaches the cell through the fat layer, time will pass, and sugar is no longer normal, the body again increases insulin production in an avalanche mode. Excess body weight is a certain ballast. When there is no fat layer, nothing interferes with the smooth communication between the receptors and insulin and glucose.

I would compare this process to a traffic jam: either you drive for a long time in a car and “drag” to your destination, or you drive on the highway at high speed and manage to do everything quickly, when there is no obesity.

How do people react when they find out they have diabetes?

When you tell a person that he has type 1 diabetes, you immediately explain to him the whole future situation. At first, the patient simply does not believe that he has such a disease, because you start talking about insulin, the need for lifestyle changes, but the person feels fine. It’s a little easier for people with type 2 diabetes. The person was often warned in clinics about such a development of events, he knew about the risk factors, was warned in advance that this could happen, and therefore perceives the situation more calmly. Of course, all patients are upset. The man lived, did not take any medications, did not think much about what he was eating. And now the doctor told him that he has diabetes and everything needs to be changed. Tragedies, tears and hysterics are rare, mostly among women. Men are generally more logical and less emotional, and upon learning about the illness they immediately ask - what to do?

“Some patients, upon learning that they have diabetes, take a tight rein on themselves. They control their diet and physical activity so well that we reduce the dosage of medications to a minimum. There are few of them, but they exist - they are very disciplined people."

The second category of patients is those who try, but from time to time give up treatment. The first time after they meet with the doctor, everything is fine, and then, after a year, they come back with a less rosy picture. It's simple: people are tired, burned out. Most often this is an age group - everyone has their own eating habits, their own way of life. Patients who are tired of controlling sugar and following prescriptions come with decompensation.

There is a third category of people: they are initially negative because they will have to take pills, so they choose to do nothing. We meet much more often than we would like, because they come with constant decompensation. Doctors' hands are tied: doctors do everything for patients - within the limits of what is possible, but a person with diabetes does not want to change anything. We cannot leave sugar to hang out, so we resort to insulin therapy. But here, too, difficulties arise, because patients do not want to plunge into active therapy. Such people consider insulin to be a narcotic substance: “If you get hooked on insulin, you’ll never take it off, what am I going to do then?” is a common phrase at appointments. There are even those who refuse treatment in principle, and then they are brought in by ambulance. And no one asks them there whether to take insulin or not. They bring themselves to a life-threatening state.

“Doshirak” with a bun for breakfast….

I had one patient. I couldn’t understand why his sugar levels were so high. I asked him to keep a food diary. I usually always recommend doing this, but here I strongly suggested that the person for a while vigilantly write down what he eats in a calorie counting app. The patient brought a food diary, and there was Doshirak with a bun for breakfast. But I still can’t understand why the sugar is dancing. And they ask me - why don’t the pills work?

A patient with type 1 diabetes mellitus sets insulin to the amount of carbohydrates he consumes, but only for the first time. A person first forms his food basket and understands his “blood sugar trends,” that is, he observes how sugar behaves with a certain amount of carbohydrates eaten, and calculates how much insulin is required for them. Then the patient adapts and navigates food calmly.

“With a person with type 2 diabetes, again, everything is somewhat simpler. It has its own secretion, so it is important to control the portion size and take into account the quantity and quality of carbohydrates. You need to understand what fast and complex carbohydrates are.” A person has a glucometer, and he knows how much blood sugar he should eat a piece of cake. He measures the sugar before and after taking it, and then looks at how much the sugar has increased. I have patients who eat chocolate in moderation, but they can't eat oatmeal because the sugar goes through the roof. The functioning of the gastrointestinal tract is individual for everyone, so a person with type 2 diabetes becomes a researcher of himself. For literally two weeks he constantly monitors his diet, and then the control turns into a routine, happening once or twice a week at different times - there is no need to constantly count calories. For some patients, we recommend calculating portions using the plate or palm method—this often works.

Why do you need an insulin pump?

There are several ways to administer insulin - using syringe pens and an insulin pump. The latter is not always needed and not for everyone. It is most often used by patients with type 1 diabetes. For them, it is more convenient to live with such a device. This is possible when the patient is ready to learn how to use it, because it is the same as any gadget - if you give an elderly person a new smartphone and an old phone, it is unlikely that he will delve into the technical complexities and nuances. An insulin pump does not replace the pancreas; it injects a certain amount of insulin into a person at a constant rate. A person adjusts this feed speed in the settings. Therefore, it is very important to understand what the carbohydrate coefficient and the insulin sensitivity factor are, for example. You need to be able to navigate certain situations. For example, the patient’s insulin supply has ended, and for some this can play a critical role. A person who does not maintain sugar on his own noticed this after 5 hours - hyperglycemia is rapidly developing. If the patient notices in time, he can take some independent steps, but if not, then there is a threat of emergency.

Kate Moss's 18-year-old daughter, Lila, walked at the joint show of luxury brands Fendi and Versace with an insulin pump on her hip: the girl has type 1 diabetes.

For patients with type 2 diabetes, the pump is not entirely suitable. Such people generally avoid insulin therapy - and are very afraid of it. They are prescribed insulin therapy most often in emergency situations when it comes to resuscitation. Or in situations where a person does not follow a diet, and all medications have already been tried, the only option left is insulin therapy. Alas, there is still an opinion among adults that there is a magic pill that will completely reverse the process - body weight will decrease, blood sugar will be normal. But that's not true.

What are the worst consequences of diabetes?

These are diabetic retinopathy (severe eye disease), decreased vision up to blindness, diabetic foot (the appearance of deep non-healing ulcers on its skin), changes in the skeletal system against the background of constant hyperglycemia, poor compensation, which can lead to amputation of the lower extremities, polyneuropathy (multiple peripheral nerve damage). In general, the dysfunction of the nervous system itself can manifest itself in different ways - in the form of constant pain in the arms and legs, numbness, burning, and ulcers may also appear because a person has difficulty feeling the places of excess pressure from shoes on the fabric. In extreme cases - kidney damage, increased blood pressure, hemodialysis... But such patients, fortunately, are very few.

How to protect yourself from diabetes?

If you notice a combination of symptoms such as excess body weight, constant dry mouth, frequent urination both day and night, prolonged healing of wounds, furunculosis, this is a reason to consult an endocrinologist. Or you discovered that you are losing weight, although you don’t change your diet - you eat, but you can’t get enough. These are also “bells” to visit a specialist.

A healthy person needs to monitor the quantity and quality of food consumed, eat in moderation, according to hunger, and not overeat. Monitor your own body weight. You need to eat a balanced diet, not bypassing seasonal fruits, berries and vegetables. It is imperative to ensure that fiber is in your diet.

It is important for any person to know what free sugars are. We must control them. This is the sugar that manufacturers add to the product - to the sauce, for example, because it is a good preservative. I would advise you to look at what this or that product consists of, now they write the composition everywhere. Not always those products that say “sugar-free” are actually sugar-free. Fructose, sucrose, and starch can be added to them. It's all carbohydrates and sugars.

Ideally, plan your meals, that is, at least know approximately what you will eat for breakfast, lunch and dinner, so as not to overeat and not be hungry. It is also very important to be socially and physically active in the long term - find any activity you like that you can do regularly, then the likelihood that you will suddenly find out about your own type 2 diabetes is extremely small.