Television actor Aishwarya Sakhuja, who has type 1 diabetes, recently shared that her nutritionist added plain betel leaf to her diet as part of an effort to manage her HbA1c levels. The HbA1c test measures average blood glucose over approximately three months, making it an important indicator of long-term diabetes management.
According to diabetologist Dr Vijay Negalur, some studies suggest that compounds in betel leaves may have antioxidant and mild anti-inflammatory properties and could potentially support glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity. However, any improvement in HbA1c should be considered alongside factors such as a balanced diet, regular physical activity, weight management and consistent blood-sugar monitoring.
Experts also make an important distinction between plain betel leaf and paan containing tobacco or supari. The reported advice concerns the leaf itself, not tobacco-based or heavily filled paan. Betel leaf should also not be viewed as a substitute for prescribed diabetes medication.
While traditional foods and natural ingredients may have a role within a balanced lifestyle, diabetes management requires an individualised approach. Because HbA1c reflects blood-sugar patterns over several months, no single food or natural remedy can be expected to produce a dramatic change overnight. People with diabetes should consult their healthcare professional before making significant changes to their diet or treatment routine.
