Unexpected effects of squeezing lemon and sprinkling pepper on noodles, vermicelli, and pho

A recent post by Medhya Herbals Health and Fitness Centre, a Singaporean center specializing in traditional medicine for women's health and hormonal balance, suggests that: "Squeezing lemon juice and sprinkling pepper on food can help control blood sugar levels."

Many people have a habit of sprinkling pepper and squeezing lemon juice onto dishes like noodles, vermicelli, and pho.

Accordingly, studies show that adding a few drops of lemon juice to a dish can help lower its glycemic index. This is because the acidity in lemon juice can inhibit... Pepper can hinder the digestion of starch, leading to a slower rise in blood sugar levels. It can also enhance insulin sensitivity. Some studies suggest this action improves the body's ability to utilize sugar.

So, would squeezing a few drops of lemon juice and sprinkling some pepper really help as suggested?

What do the experts say?

According to Indian Express, Dr. Riya Desai, a nutritionist at Wockhardt Hospital in Mumbai, India, explains: Adding lemon juice to food helps slow down the digestion of carbohydrates (thanks to citric acid), allowing sugar to be released into the bloodstream gradually.

According to nutritionist Thousia Hassan, a nutrition consultant at Motherhood Hospital, HRBR, Bangalore (India), squeezing lemon juice into food helps to inhibit spikes in blood sugar levels.

Lemons also provide vitamin C, which helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, and indirectly enhances insulin sensitivity for better blood sugar control. The polyphenols in lemons also have antioxidant properties that can improve insulin sensitivity and sugar absorption.

Pepper and lemon help the body control blood sugar levels.

Regarding pepper, expert Hassan explains: The main advantage of pepper is due to piperine – an active ingredient that helps the body absorb nutrients and metabolize better. As a result, the body is better equipped to absorb nutrients that help regulate blood sugar levels.

Similar to components of lemons, piperine has the ability to improve insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism, helping to regulate blood sugar levels, expert Hassan further explained.

In addition to enhancing the flavor of dishes, pepper and lemon work together to improve carbohydrate digestion, leading to better nutrient absorption and offering numerous other benefits.

Expert Hassan added: Pepper and lemon can be consumed in salads or in liquid dishes such as soups, noodles, or egg and vegetable dishes.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/tac-dung-khong-ngo-cua-vat-chanh-rac-tieu-vao-mi-bun-pho-1852407011909325.htm