Rice and Dal is a signature combo which gives us a feeling of home and comfort. It is a good combination of carbs and proteins, although with a higher proportion of carbs. Cooking the rice and dal lowers its fibre content, leading to a carb-dense meal which can lead to high glucose levels in the blood, a condition known as hyperglycemia.
Balancing Glucose levels with Rice and Dal
• Dal is a good source of protein but it lacks several essential amino acids. Consider adding multiple vegetarian protein sources like beans, yoghurt, tofu and other pulses to fulfil your protein requirements.
• You can also pair protein-rich items like chicken, fish or paneer with rice and dal.
• Consider controlling carb intake by reducing the portion of rice to 30-50 grams per serving.
• Try to make your meal such that it has the highest proportion of fibre, followed by protein and the lowest amount of carbs.
Rice served with Dal is considered healthy, but the cooking process reduces its fibre and protein content which leaves only carbs as macros in the meal. This can lead to blood glucose spikes. Adding diverse protein sources not only takes care of your fibre and protein needs but also balances the overall glycemic index of the meal.
