Type 2 diabetes accounts for 90 percent to 95 percent of adults diagnosed with diabetes. In Type 2 diabetes, the body becomes resistant to insulin or has an insulin deficiency. Diabetics need professional medical care and guidance regarding lifestyle, diet and exercise and medications if necessary. The use of natural remedies is an alternative approach to treating diabetes. This must be done under professional medical supervision.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon adds a sweet, spicy taste and a delicious flavor to apple pie, apple cider or oatmeal. Cinnamon also provides nutritional and health benefits. According to Dr. Richard Anderson of the Human Nutrition Research Center in the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), cinnamon benefits people with insulin resistance because of the insulin-like action of cinnamon extract. The active substance in cinnamon is methylhydroxychalcone polymer (MHCP). Cinnamon is beneficial in treating Type 2 diabetes by reducing blood sugar levels and stimulating the body's natural production of insulin. A half a teaspoon of cinnamon a day may keep diabetes away.
Bitter Melon Extract
Bitter melon extract is from the fruit and seeds of the bitter melon tree that grows in tropical and subtropical climates. This long, warty fruit, a member of the gourd family, is the most bitter edible vegetable of all. According to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, bitter melon is used to treat diabetes, cancer and viral infections as well as immune disorders. It also shows significant hypoglycemic (low blood sugar levels) effects in healthy people and diabetic inpatients. Additional studies are being done to support recommendation for its usage.
Indian Gooseberry
The Indian gooseberry tree, which grows predominantly in Asia, is used in traditional medicine to treat conditions such as jaundice, diarrhea, headaches and inflammation. This berry is a rich source of vitamin C. According to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, the Ayurvedic formula has Triphala E. officinal and has shown antidiabetic, antioxidant and antibacterial and antihyperlipidemic (lowers high levels of lipids or fats in the blood) properties. No clinical trials have been done to support these effects.
Warnings
Using natural remedies for any condition should be done under the supervision of a professional health care provider. Type 2 diabetes is called a silent killer. It increases the risk of heart disease and stroke as well as kidney problems and diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage). It's important for diabetics to monitor blood sugar levels and not discontinue diabetic medication or take natural remedies with these medications without consulting their physicians.
