Diabetes mellitus, commonly referred to as diabetes is a serious illness where the body loses its ability to utilize insulin, a chemical our pancreas makes to control the level of glucose in the blood. Type 2 often develops in overweight adults. Insulin tablets are sometimes used for type 2 diabetes although insulin is given in injections in more severe cases.
Type 2 diabetes is a condition usually brought on by lifestyle factors such as lack of exercise and too much sugar or carbohydrates in the diet. Because it is lifestyle related, this condition is easier to control and may even be reversible with the natural remedies.
One herb that is most beneficial in the management of diabetes alone is herb golden seal (Hydratis canadenis). Golden seal is a bitter herb that has an antibiotic effect on the body and is used by many to fight infections. It is used by diabetics to lower the blood sugar. Pre-diabetics/ borderline diabetics have used golden seal with success before using insulin to lower sugar levels. Many diabetics have used golden seal herb along with other herbs to eliminate the need for insulin.
A combination of any of the following herbs will help to bring down and regulate blood sugar: cedar berries, burdock, horseradish, golden seal, and Siberian ginseng.
Psyllium hulls are also an excellent bulk fiber to use when suffering from diabetes. The fiber swells in the digestive tract and slows the absorption of sugars, which help keep blood sugar from spiking up and down rapidly. Taken before each meal, psyllium hulls are a positive addition for diabetics, especially those who lack fibrous foods in their diet.
Diabetes has been highly associated with a chromium deficiency, largely due to a top soil deficiency where our foods are grown. Herbal sources of chromium include kelp, licorice, and spirulina. Sugar and refined foods deplete chromium.
Trace minerals and zinc are other helpful supplements for diabetics of either type. Zinc is an important nutrient to diabetics because this mineral influences the digestion of carbohydrates in the body. Pumpkin seeds are one of the richest sources of zinc from nature.
Circulatory Herbs such as cayenne pepper are useful. They improve the circulation, balance the glands and strengthen the kidneys.
Exercise lowers the blood sugar levels as well incorporating a regular exercise program into our life is important either one is diabetic or not but if one is diabetic its important because he is suffering from high blood sugar. Walking is the most natural and comfortable form of exercise, it reduces blood sugar, improves circulation, cleans lymph nodes, increases the heart rate, gets the lungs pumping, and is a wonderful and safe exercise that every diabetic can enjoy.