Some natural remedies fit in seamlessly in the management of type 2 diabetes. Since there is no specific treatment for diabetes, the management of diabetes 2 mellitus combines standard treatment with natural remedies and alternative therapies, the aim of which is to keep blood glucose levels as normal as possible.
[Read: How to Control Type 2 Diabetes]
Natural Dietary Supplements for Type 2 Diabetes
Ginseng: According to a study conducted by the researchers of University of Western Ontario, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry in London, supplements of the North American plant ginseng help patients with diabetic nephropathy by controlling their blood sugar and glycosylated haemoglobin levels.
Chromium: According to a study published in the Diabetes Care journal, chromium supplements play a vital role in carbohydrate and fat metabolism to help the body’s cells respond to insulin in the right manner. Health experts recommend 800 –1,000 micrograms of chromium a day to manage high as well as low blood sugar levels besides promoting burning of fat, improving cholesterol levels and managing insulin sensitivity.
[Read: Prevent Pre-Diabetes from Becoming Type 2 Diabetes]
Magnesium: The findings in the National Nutrition and Health Examination Survey (NHANES) suggest that magnesium regulates blood sugar levels and promotes nerve function, heart rhythm, immune function, blood pressure and bone health. Type 2 diabetics are recommended green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds and whole grains, the natural sources of magnesium.
Vanadium: Vanadium supplements help normalise blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetics. According to a study at the National Center for Biotechnology Information, diabetics developed a modest increase in insulin sensitivity to improve blood sugar levels. The findings suggest that vanadium works in the body to control appetite and body weight, preventing potential side-effects.
Alternative Treatments for Type 2 Diabetes
Acupuncture: A practitioner inserts thin needles into some designated points on the skin, which then triggers the release of the body's natural painkillers. The procedure not only offers relief from chronic pain but also prevents complications for diabetics with neuropathy and nerve damage.
[Read: Treatment Options for Type 2 Diabetes]
Biofeedback: This technique helps diabetics become more aware of and learn to deal chronic pain. Biofeedback emphasises on relaxation and stress-reducing techniques.
Natural remedies, alternative therapies or complementary medicine is always a second-fiddle to the standard treatment, therefore, it should be undertaken only under the supervision of a qualified health professional without which there may be a mismanagement, the consequences of which could be life-threatening.
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