Naturla diabetes cures for you
Natural Remedies for Type 2 Diabetes
By Dr. Danielle E. Greenman, Integrative Medicine
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Type 2 diabetes (also called diabetes mellitus) results from the perfect storm of not enough movement, too much of the wrong foods, emotional stress, lack of sleep, toxins, and genetics. More often than not, patients with type 2 diabetes look towards natural medicine in addition to their conventional medicine for help in treating their disease. Natural medicines and using food as medicine is a wonderful way to complement your diabetes treatment. However, if added without the correct knowledge or guidance, mixing herbs, supplements and medicines can lead to a drop in blood sugar called hypoglycemia.
While
I do not recommend starting any new treatments without consulting your
health care provider, below find a list of my top natural remedies for
type 2 diabetes.
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
The primary compound in
ACV is acetic acid and is believed to be responsible for many of its
health benefits. There are many evidence-based approaches to using
ACV. Taking 2 tablespoons before bedtime can reduce your morning
fasting sugar levels. Even better, 1-2 tablespoons of ACV taken with
meals can decrease the glycemic load of a carbohydrate rich meal. I
generally tell patients to either consume ACV alone, prior to a meal or
mix it into salad dressings or teas.
2. Fiber and Barley
Eating fiber decreases blood
sugar and insulin concentrations. The recommended amount of fiber is
around 30 grams per day. Most Americans get around 6-8 grams, which is
not nearly enough. While you can take fiber supplements like Metamucil
(psylium husk), the best way to reach your goal is to eat your
veggies! Barley is a high-fiber, high-protein grain which has lots of
data to support its role in helping improve blood sugar, insulin,
cholesterol and general inflammation. Barley does not requiring soaking
and usually can cook in less than 15 minutes on the stove top with just
some water and salt.
3. Chromium
Mainly found in brewer’s yeast,
deficiency in chromium impairs the metabolism of glucose. Evidence
supports chromium for lower blood sugar and A1c levels. Be careful if
you have kidney disease with this supplement.
4. Zinc
Those with diabetes are commonly found to
be zinc deficient. Studies have shown zinc supplementation can reduce
blood sugar and A1C, have an antioxidant effect, lower blood sugar and
even help treat some of the complications related to diabetes. Large
doses of zinc can inhibit the absorption of other minerals like copper,
so be sure to ask for guidance of the appropriate dosing.
5. Aloe Vera
The sap of aloe vera is known for
its laxative effect. Therefore, make sure to get the juice of the gel!
There is increasing evidence for use of the gel, which is the
mucilaginous material inside the leaves. Be sure that any product you
buy is free of aloin or anthraquinones to avoid finding yourself in the
bathroom!
6. Berberine
This is one of my all-time favorite
botanicals found in plants such as goldenseal, barberry, Oregon grape
root and Coptis. Current evidence supports its use for decreasing blood
sugar and hba1c. Be aware that this herb can interfere with metabolism
of traditional pharmaceuticals and should never be taken while
pregnant.
7. Cinnamon
A medically beneficial indulgence to help lower your blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
8. Fenugreek
A seed commonly used as a food spice
has been used abroad for centuries for its medical benefits to lower
cholesterol and hba1c. If your urine smells like maple syrup, not to
worry, this is a known side effect and is harmless.
9. Gymnema
Used for centuries in India, evidence
is catching up to its medical use showing benefits for glucose
metabolism, insulin levels and as an adjunct to improve the results of
traditional pharmaceuticals. Be aware, because this botanical works
synergistically with your meds, you must monitor your blood sugar
closely to avoid having hypoglycemia.
10. Nopal
Ever see nopales at your favorite
Mexican restaurant? Now you can order them and, rest assured, you’re
choosing a food that help lower your blood sugar. Nopales are the pads
of the prickly pear cactus and when cooked right are delicious! I personally like eating them with eggs or as a salad.
Please remember: this list of herbs is not medical advice and should not be taken unless advised by a healthcare provider.
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