Type 2 diabetes happens when the body ignores or does not produce enough insulin necessary to regulate glucose, or sugar, levels for energy. Without enough insulin, glucose builds up in the blood and leads to diabetic complications. Diabetics benefit from a healthy diet, exercise and sometimes medication to keep glucose levels under control. Alternative measures can also help, but diabetics should consult with a doctor and make sure any optional remedies do not replace or interfere with their treatment plan.
Complementary Techniques
Acupuncture may work effectively for many diabetics, according to DiabetesLife. Needles inserted at various points in the skin help the flow of energy that may be blocked. Biofeedback helps monitor heart rate, blood pressure and other bodily functions of concern to diabetics. People can use biofeedback devices to consciously control these functions.
Stress Management
Stressful conditions can make diabetics stray from their regular treatment routine. Stress may also cause hormones in the body to prevent insulin from working properly, according to MayoClinic.com. Putting priorities in order and setting limits help to reduce stress. Relaxation techniques, such as yoga, meditation and guided imagery, help people focus on pleasant images or feelings to produce a calming effect and relieve any painful effects from diabetes.
Minerals and Herbs
Chromium may work to increase glucose tolerance to improve the action of insulin in diabetics. Deficiencies of magnesium may raise blood sugar levels or increase the resistance to insulin in type 2 diabetics, DiabetesLife notes. The addition of dietary or supplemental magnesium may help. Herbal treatment, although not proven, may help normalize blood sugar levels. Astragalus and Chinese wild yam show promise in treating the effects of diabetes. Tian hua and mai men dong may return blood sugar levels to normal.
Snack Alternatives
Diabetics often focus on healthy snacks in their treatment plans to keep blood sugar levels under control throughout the day, especially during exercise or vigorous activity. Snacks low in fats and carbohydrates prevent fluctuating blood sugar levels. Instead of checking labels for the right ingredients, diabetics can benefit from making their own snacks, according to Diet-to-Go. People know the ingredients in their own snacks and can include seeds or nuts to replace sugary foods. Preparing homemade soups avoids the added sugar found in many processed foods. The extra time it takes allows people to focus on preparation instead of eating to keep a healthy weight.
Vegetarian Option
Dietitians recommend a diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables in a diabetic's treatment plan. Even if not going completely vegetarian, a diet that closely matches a vegetarian diet may help lower blood sugar levels by providing a better metabolism, according to Diabetes.co.uk. A vegetarian diet also lowers the risk for high cholesterol levels, a concern for many diabetics.
