Standard Serving — Diabetes Nutrition Facts

Food & Diabetes Search

Search any food to understand its impact on your blood sugar — see carbs, protein, fat, fiber, glycemic index, and more.

https://www.bluecircle.foundation/food/paruppu-urundai-kuzhumbu

Paruppu urundai kuzhumbu

CARBS

Medium

PROTEINS

High

FATS

Medium

Paruppu urundai kuzhumbu is a South Indian dish made of lentil balls cooked in a spicy tamarind and tomato-based sauce. It is not ideal for a low-carb diabetes diet due to its moderate carbohydrate content primarily from lentils.

Quantity: 100 grams

Glycemic Index: Medium

Glycemic Load: Medium

Fiber: High

Key Nutrients: Fiber, protein, iron

Health Impact: The lentils in the dish can cause moderate blood sugar spikes due to their carbohydrate content. The fiber and protein may help mitigate this effect slightly, but caution is advised.

💉 Suggested Bolus

Consider pre-bolusing or splitting the insulin dose if using insulin.

🍽️ Best Paired With (Veg)

Grilled zucchini – Low in carbs and provides additional fiber, which helps in managing blood sugar levels.
Cauliflower rice – Acts as a low-carb substitute for rice, helping to reduce the overall carbohydrate load of the meal.

🍽️ Best Paired With (Non Veg)

Grilled chicken – Adds high-quality protein without contributing additional carbs, supporting blood sugar control.
Baked fish – Provides omega-3 fatty acids and protein, beneficial for heart health and glycemic control.

🥄 Smart Substitutes

Almond flour – Reduces carb content and adds healthy fats, which can help in managing blood sugar levels.
Coconut flour – Provides a lower carb alternative and is rich in fiber, aiding in slower digestion and glucose absorption.
Ground flaxseeds – Offers a low-carb, high-fiber substitute that can help stabilize blood sugar.

⏱ Blood Sugar Timeline

0–15 min: Minimal impact as the meal is low in fast-acting carbohydrates.
30–60 min: Gradual increase in blood sugar due to slower digestion of fats and proteins.
2–3 hr: Blood sugar levels begin to stabilize due to the high fiber and protein content.

“Many in the low-carb diabetes community find that incorporating a balance of fiber, healthy fats, and protein helps in effectively managing post-meal blood sugar spikes.”
— BCDF community member

🧠 Lowering Impact Tip

Reduce the portion size and increase the proportion of fats by adding coconut milk or cream to the sauce.

🤔 FAQs about Paruppu urundai kuzhumbu

Can I eat paruppu urundai kuzhumbu if I am on a strict low-carb diet?

Yes, but consider using low-carb substitutes like almond or coconut flour for the lentils to minimize carb intake.

What are the best times to consume a meal like paruppu urundai kuzhumbu?

Eating this meal during lunch may be beneficial as it provides ample time for digestion and metabolic adjustment throughout the day.

Have a question about Paruppu urundai kuzhumbu or any other topic related to diabetes?

Schedule a free session with one of our trained peer supporters who live with diabetes.

Click here for Buddy Project Helpline

From the blog

Empowering the diabetes community with expert insights, support, and resources.