According to the American Diabetes Association, 23.6 million Americans, or about 7.8 percent of the population, have diabetes. Each year, 1.6 million new cases are diagnosed in patients 20 years and older. Many people with diabetes can effectively manage their disease through natural means.
Diet
Proper diet is the single most important element of a natural diabetes management regimen. People with diabetes should maintain a diet that is high in complex carbohydrates and fiber, and low in fat, says James F. Balch, M.D. Patients should include plenty of raw vegetables and fruits, vegetable juices, legumes, and whole grains. Raw fruits and vegetables reduce the body's need for insulin, while fiber helps control blood sugar surges. Try rice bran or oat crackers with cheese or nut butter for a fiber-rich snack, says Dr. Balch.
Blood Sugar Stabilizers
Certain foods help stabilize blood sugar levels, according to Dr. Balch. Spirulina is effective for preventing rapid blood sugar fluctuations. Other good choices include dairy products, egg yolks, garlic, soybeans, brewer's yeast and kelp.
Herbs
No single herb offers a cure for diabetes, says Kathy Head, M.D. in "Natural Treatments for Diabetes." There are herbs, though, that can help control diabetes' effects on the body. According to Dr. Balch, ginseng is believed to lower blood sugar levels, although patients with high blood pressure should avoid ginseng supplements. Huckleberry is known to stimulate insulin production. Cedar berries protect the pancreas, allowing it to operate more efficiently.
Tobacco Avoidance
People with diabetes should avoid using tobacco in any form, says Dr. Balch. Tobacco constricts the blood vessels, preventing proper circulation and efficient use of sugars as fuel. Tobacco also deprives the body's cells of oxygen, which can compound the effects of diabetic blood sugar fluctuations.
References
- American Diabetes Association: Diabetes Statistics
- "Natural Treatments for Diabetes"; Kathy Head, M.D.; 2000
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch, M.D.; 1997
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