Diabetes is a condition that modifies the way the body uses blood glucose also known by the name blood sugar.
As a matter of fact, there are 2 types of diabetes, to be more precise type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes. Each type differs in the way the body makes and uses insulin.
Insulin is a hormone that allows the body to convert sugar into energy. Read on, to find out more about the symptoms and how to treat them naturally.
The Symptoms in Both Types
In the first type of diabetes, i.e., type 1, the immune system destroys and attacks the cells that make the insulin. Common symptoms of type 1 diabetes are blurred vision, thirst, numbness, and tingling in the feet, hunger, weight loss, fatigue, and frequent urination.
When it comes to type 2 diabetes, the body cannot use insulin to make energy from sugar, and that leads to elevated sugar levels. Symptoms of type 2 diabetes are sores that won’t heal, excessive thirst, blurry vision, increased urination, fatigue, excessive hunger, and fatigue.
But the good news is that there are natural ways to treat some of these symptoms.
Common Natural Treatment Options
1. Fatty Fish
We can eat fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, halibut, sardines, and albacore tuna. It is said that people who consume these types of fatty fish at least twice per week have a lower risk of inflammation, abnormal heartbeat, and high blood pressure.
The fish is actually low in saturated fat which is bad fat and also in cholesterol, but it is abundant in omega-3 fatty acids.
2. Blueberries
We need to consume blueberries on a regular basis, which can help maintain our blood glucose at a healthy level. Furthermore, the blueberries have flavonoids; the flavonoids reduce the risk of diabetes.
Moreover, the blueberries obtain their color from anthocyanins. This is actually an antioxidant that can help lower the likelihood of type 2 diabetes for around 23 %.
3. Turmeric
The turmeric comes with anti-glycemic properties that prevent insulin resistance, support the normal functioning of the pancreas and also balance and regulate the insulin levels.
4. Holy Basil
The leaves of the holy basil have potent antioxidants that make caryophyllene, eugenol, and methyl eugenol. These substances above mentioned help in the normal functioning of the beta cells and increase the sensitivity of these cells to insulin.
5. Carrots
Carrots are not only good for the vision and the immune system, but they also help with diabetes management.
The carrots contain beta-carotene which is beneficial for those who are genetically predisposed to develop type 2 diabetes. In fact, beta-carotene helps lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Alternative Treatment Options
Supplements
- Gymnema Sylvestre;
- Rhodiola;
- Chromium Picolinate;
- Green Coffee Extract;
- Fish Oil;
- Magnesium;
- Alpha-Lipoic Acid.
However, we should consult our doctor about how to incorporate these supplements into our diet.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture can be beneficial for diabetes symptoms in the following ways:
- Increasing range of motion and circulation in musculoskeletal conditions;
- Regulating endocrine function and reducing blood sugar;
- Decreasing depression and anxiety;
- Increasing gastric emptying time;
- Preserving nerve function and relieving painful peripheral neuropathy.
Exercise
An important factor when it comes to curbing the side effects of diabetes is including regular exercise into our usual routine.
As a matter of fact, exercising can help improve insulin sensitivity and support metabolism through the production of lean muscle and burning fat. Exercising after meals might be useful for maintaining a healthy blood sugar level.
When it comes to treating diabetes symptoms, there are many natural ways to do that. But we must consult our doctor first before making any lifestyle changes.