Blood sugar disorders such as diabetes and hypoglycemia should be addressed with a health care professional. While a low-sugar diet is essential to managing diabetes, certain herbs and foods may help to lower blood sugar levels naturally. It is important to remember that most herbs are not yet approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, or FDA. Herbs and other natural supplements should be used in conjunction with, and not in place of conventional medical care.
Gymnema Sylvestre
Gymnema sylvestre is an herb native to India that is used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat diabetes and other blood sugar disorders. Its main chemical component, gymnemic acid, can reduce the taste bud's ability to detect sweetness, thereby decreasing the craving for sugary foods. According to early studies published in the "Journal of Ethnopharmacology" and "Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice", extracts of gymnena sylvestre appear to not only reduce blood glucose levels, but, over time may also help reduce the need for prescription medication for patients with Type 2 diabetes.
Fenugreek
Fenugreek is a culinary herb used in eastern Indian cuisine. It is also used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat a variety of conditions, including: arthritis, asthma, bronchitis, indigestion, as well as symptoms of menopause and premenstrual syndrome. The University of Maryland Medical Center also cites studies which showed fenugreek's ability to regulate blood sugar levels. In one study, fenugreek seed powder not only lowered blood sugar, but improved cholesterol and triglyceride levels as well. It can be used for both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a popular spice in baking that also has medicinal properties. It has been used for centuries by herbalists to treat indigestion, diarrhea, ease menstrual cramps and lower blood sugar. It also acts as a natural stimulant and is used in herbal formulas to enhance the effects of other herbs. According to the University of Maryland, clinical studies of cinnamon showed that it reduces blood glucose, triglycerides and total cholesterol levels. The studies used relatively high doses of cinnamon, up to six grams per day. Always consult a health care practitioner before using culinary herbs for medicinal purposes.
Super-foods
In addition to herbal remedies, the American Diabetes Association lists several super-food that can be used to help regulate blood sugar. They recommend foods with a low-glycemic index, that are high in fiber and antioxidants such as vitamins A, C and E. Some of the recommended super-foods include dark green leafy vegetables like spinach and kale, citrus fruits, nuts, dried beans, berries and tomatoes. Fiber-rich sweet potatoes can also be substituted for white potatoes.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Diabetes
- American Diabetes Association: Diabetes Superfoods
- Effect of Gymnema sylvestre; "Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice"; Volume 9, Issue 2; May-June 1990
- Antidiabetic effect of leaf extract of gymnema sylvestre: "Journal of Ethnopharmacology"; Volume 30, Issue 3; October 1990
