Diabetes alternative therapies are therapies that are not classified as standard western medical practices for diabetes. Alternative therapies for diabetes could include anything from diet and exercise, to acupuncture and yoga. Other examples include herbal remedies, chiropractic treatments, guided imagery, feedback, and massage.
Many alternative therapies for diabetes have been found to be very effective, some have not. Some have even been known to be dangerous. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), recommends that diabetics keep their health care providers informed when using alternative therapies for diabetes.
The first alternative therapies for diabetes that a diabetic should use are diet and exercise. This is no surprise. All diabetics need good diabetic and exercise strategies in order to keep their disease under control. Diets for diabetes generally recommend high amounts of proteins, mostly vegetables, and low amounts of foods that contain carbohydrates such as chips, ice cream, and soda. Each diabetic should exercise a minimum of 30 minutes a day. A wise diabetic will stay more active than that.
More Diabetes Alternative Therapies
One of the most popular alternative therapies for diabetes is the use of herbal remedies. Many herbal treatments are very useful in the treatment of the disease. Look for herbs that have some sort of scientific basis of their usefulness, and beware of commercial claims that have no historical or scientific backing. Many herbal remedies have been used in other cultures for centuries, and when studied they are usually found very effective. Plants that have been studied and found to be effective in type 2 diabetes are:
- Brewer’s yeast
- Buckwheat
- Broccoli and dark greens
- Okra
- Peas
- Garlic
- Ginseng
- Cinnamon
- Onion
Chromium, magnesium, and vanadium have been studied and found to be effective. Chromium and magnesium supplements have been known to help control sugar levels, while vanadium helps to improve the body’s sensitivity to insulin. Supplements, however, can sometimes interfere with conventional medications, so be sure to speak with your doctor beforehand.
There are also mind and body approaches to relieving pain and stress in diabetes. These may relieve other symptoms as well. For example, meditation and deep breathing exercises not only relieve stress, but help to control blood sugar levels too. The relaxation techniques also enhance mood, reduce blood pressure and heart rate, and keep adrenaline levels down. Yoga and biofeedback techniques also may keep hormone levels in check. Yoga provides an opportunity for light exercise too.
Acupuncture has been used in Asia for centuries. It has been known to alleviate many diabetes symptoms. This involves the placement of very thin needles in strategic points throughout the body. Acupressure is a similar method, but it uses pressure instead of needles, and usually provides similar results.
