Managing Diabetes

The following excerpts are from an article written by Julie Sergel, published by Dolphin Printing & Publishing, Inc.

Managing Diabetes

Diabetes is a disease that an estimated 24 million Americans have and over 57 million Americans are unaware of their pre-diabetic state.  The good news is that Type 2 diabetes, the most prevalent form, is reversible via lifestyle modifications.

Essentially, diabetes is a disease of  nutrition.  The body is not getting what it needs to be well.  Be sue to avoid the white stuff - white flour, white sugar, white rice, white bread.  Once digested, the body accepts all as sugar.  With the fiber content removed, blood glucose levels rise.  Additionally, excess sugar is translated into detrimental long chain saturated fatty acids.  Learn to incorporate healthy fats that help slow digestion and ease insulin release, as well as protein, and fiber, that decreases insulin requirements by stabilizing blood sugar.

Specific Herbs and Vitamins to Utilize:

Cinnamon:   Known to reduce blood sugar levels and greatly enhance the efficiency of insulin.  An intake of a half a teaspoon twice a day can surely impact diabetic profiles.

Fenugreek:  The seeds have demonstrated anti-diabetic properties; helps lower blood sugar.

Chromium:  Helps the cells respond better to naturally produced insulin.

Magnesium:  Deficiency common in diabetics, can worsen blood sugar levels and insulin resistance; foods rich in magnesium offer reduced risks for developing Type 2  diabetes.

Milk Thistle:  A coveted liver protector and rejuvenator with antioxidant properties, shown to significantly lower the amount of sugar bound to hemoglobin in the blood.

Asian Ginseng:  A powerful Chinese herb that supports the immune system, but also helps to slow carbohydrate absorption, aid cellular utilization of glucose, and increase pancreatic secretion of insulin.

Bilberry:  An excellent herbal aid for protecting the eyes and the nerves.

There are many health risks associated with a sedentary lifestyle - including diabetes.  Exercise offers immense help by lowering blood sugar, improving the body's ability to use insulin, assisting weight loss by burning excess body fat and improving muscle strength.  It also improves circulation and heart health, reduces stress and increases overall well being.

Bill