Diabetes is a chronic illness that affects the way your body metabolizes and utilizes food, reports the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse. Your body breaks down most of the food you eat into glucose, which is the form of sugar in the blood. Cells need glucose for growth and energy, but insulin must be present for glucose to enter your cells. When you have diabetes, your pancreas produces either too little or no insulin. Your cells do not respond properly to the minimal insulin, glucose stays in your body and is excreted without being used. This causes your body to lose glucose, its primary fuel source, when it is readily available. There are some new approaches to help your manage your diabetes symptoms, but check with your physician before making any changes to your diet or routine.
Exchange Diet System
The exchange diet is a way of monitoring the foods you eat to control your blood sugar levels, according to MayoClinic.com. Foods are grouped into starches, fruits, milk, meats, vegetables and fats. The exchange system is one way to count carbohydrates. For example, one serving from the starch, fruit or milk group contains about 15 g of carbs. Talk to a registered dietician who can help you determine how many exchanges you should eat from each group.
Glycemic Index
The glycemic index is a way of classifying carbohydrate-containing foods, reports MayoClinic.com. In this system, foods are classified based on how quickly they raise and sustain your blood sugar level. Foods that are high-glycemic index, such as refined white bread, cause your blood sugar to soar and then drop down quickly. Low-glycemic index foods raise your blood sugar slightly and then keep it at a stable level for an extended period. You should include low-glycemic index foods in your diet, such as whole grains, vegetables, beans and legumes to keep your blood sugar stable.
Massage and Chiropractic Care
Massage and chiropractic adjustments allow you to be touched by another human being, which releases endorphins. This hormone naturally reduces pain, according to HealingChronicDisease.org. These hands-on healing methods may improve your nervous, immune and musculoskeletal systems. You may see improvement in your diabetes-related aches and pains in addition to stress relief.
Physical Activity
Increase your physical activity to help reduce stress and reduce symptoms of physical illness, such as diabetes. HealingChronicDisease.org suggest participating in movement therapies such as yoga, tai chi and qugong. These ancient Asian techniques help to promote overall health along with a balance of body and mind.
