Aishwarya Sakhuja has type 1 diabetes (Photo: Aishwarya Sakhuja/Instagram; AI Generated)
TV actor Aishwarya Sakhuja, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 2018, recently shared that her nutritionist added betel or paan leaf to her diet to reduce HbA1c or glycated hemoglobin which indicates one's average blood sugar levels over three months. "Why did my nutritionist add betel leaf to my diet to reduce HbA1c?" she questioned, further adding in an Instagram post, "Betel leaf isn’t just a tradition. It’s a powerful medicinal leaf that has been used in Ayurveda for centuries, and modern science is now catching up."
So, we turned to diabetologist Dr Vijay Negalur, HoD, Diabetology, KIMS Hospitals, Thane, for insight.
Stressing that the plant compounds found in the betel leaf are known for their antioxidant and mild anti-inflammatory properties, Dr Negalur said, "There are some studies that indicate that the consumption of betel leaves can be helpful for the proper metabolism of glucose. If the levels of HbA1c come under control for a particular individual, it can be attributed to the overall effect of good eating habits, proper weight management, good exercise, and proper monitoring, along with the consumption of the leaves."
How does it work?
Dr Negalur explained that consuming the leaves can help bring blood sugar levels under control by enhancing insulin sensitivity. "When the insulin levels are high, the body can utilise the sugar levels much better, which can help control the sugar levels."
Is this an effective remedy? (Photo: Freepik)
Is it safe for people with diabetes to try this?
Dr Negalur said that it is "relatively safe for people suffering from diabetes to try this remedy as long as it is consumed plain without any tobacco or supari filling". "It is recommended that people suffering from diabetes take this after their meals or drink water boiled with a betel leaf," said Dr Negalur.
Can it replace diabetes medicines?
No, it cannot replace medicines for people suffering from diabetes, stressed Dr Negalur.
"It is a natural remedy that can be included as a part of a healthy diet to reduce blood glucose levels. The HbA1c test shows the blood glucose levels over a period of three months. It is not possible to reduce blood glucose levels drastically within a short period of time through any natural remedy or medicine," emphasised Dr Negalur.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
TV actor Aishwarya Sakhuja, who has lived with Type 1 diabetes since 2018, recently sparked a conversation on social media about why her nutritionist added betel leaf (Paan ka patta) to her diet.
The primary reason given by her nutritionist—and supported by diabetologists like Dr Vijay Negalur—is the leaf's potential to improve glucose metabolism and enhance insulin sensitivity.
🍃 Why Betel Leaf for HbA1c?
According to experts, the betel leaf isn't just a traditional palate cleanser; it contains bioactive compounds that offer specific metabolic benefits:
Improved Insulin Sensitivity: Compounds in the leaf help the body utilise insulin more effectively.
When insulin works better, glucose enters the cells instead of staying in the bloodstream, which helps lower long-term blood sugar levels (HbA1c). Antioxidant Power: Betel leaves are rich in polyphenols and flavonoids.
These antioxidants reduce oxidative stress, which is a known trigger for insulin imbalance and cell damage in people with diabetes. Digestive Support: Traditionally chewed after meals, the leaf stimulates salivary enzymes and mucus production in the stomach.
Better digestion leads to more stable glucose absorption, preventing "surprise spikes" after eating. 
⚠️ The "Doctor's Disclaimer"
While the leaf itself is beneficial, Diabetologists emphasize a few critical rules:
No Additives: The benefits only apply to the plain leaf.
Combining it with tobacco, supari (areca nut), or sugary "sweet paan" fillings completely negates the health benefits and increases cancer risks. Not a Replacement: It is a supplementary natural remedy.
It cannot replace insulin or prescribed medications. Consumption: It is often recommended to consume the leaf plain after a meal or to drink water in which a betel leaf has been boiled.
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Given your interest in natural health and biochemistry, does this traditional Ayurvedic approach to blood sugar sound like something you'd want to explore further, perhaps looking into other herbal supplements like Moringa or Amla?
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