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Naturopathic Treatment of Diabetes

Diabetes is a disease characterized by an increase in the amount of blood glucose. It occurs when insulin, usually produced by the pancreas, is not produced or is unusable by the body. Insulin controls the body's conversion of sugar to energy. In people with diabetes the amount of sugar in the bloodstream climbs.

  1. Herbs for the Pancreas

    • According to "Prescription for Nutritional Healing" by Phyllis Balch, beanpod tea, bitter melon and cedar berries are all useful in promoting the health of the pancreas.

    Herbs to Lower Blood Sugar

    • Ginseng tea and juniper berries are believed to lower blood glucose levels. Huckleberry is thought to improve insulin production.

    Vitamins for Diabetes

    • A supplement of Vitamin B complex is thought to improve the body's ability to metabolize blood sugars. An adequate intake of all vitamins promotes general good health which helps the body deal with the problems associated with diabetes.

    Other Natural Supplements for Diabetes

    • Nutritional supplements such as garlic, Coenzyme Q10, vanadium and magnesium are among the many believed to have an effect on blood glucose levels and diabetes.

    Lifestyle Changes for Diabetics

    • Avoiding sugar-sweetened drinks may reduce the chance of developing diabetes. A study published in the "Journal of the American Medical Association" (quoted by Balch in her book) says women who consume more than one sugar-sweetened drink per day increase the likelihood of diabetes by 30 percent. Tobacco should be avoided due to its effects on the circulation.

    Warning

    • People with insulin-dependent diabetes should not substitute their insulin with the remedies listed above. Before making any adjustments to your diabetes treatment, it is imperative that you consult with your physician.

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