Natural Health

Diabetes

There are two types of diabetes: insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM), which normally starts in childhood, and non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM), which usually begins in later life. Insulin helps control the amount of sugar in the blood and cells. In IDDM the pancreas is unable to produce enough insulin to meet the body’s needs. In NIDDM the body no longer responds properly to insulin.

Symptoms include frequent urination, increased thirst and appetite, fatigue and recurrent infection. People with diabetes are at risk of a coma (IDDM), or fainting from a disrupted blood sugar level. Both situations require emergency medical help. In addition, diabetes can cause circulation, kidney and nervous system problems.

Dietary Advice For Diabetes

The typical low-fiber, high-sugar, high-fat western diet is a major contributory factor in NIDDM, especially in those who are overweight. IDDM responds to insulin therapy, plus a good diet. A good diet for people with diabetes should include high-fiber foods, which are converted into sugar much more slowly than refined ones, combined with fish and lean meat, or meat substitutes. For example: wholegrain and rye breads, oats, brown rice, wholemeal pasta, potatoes, beans, lentils, fruit and lots of vegetables.

Diabetes has also been linked to a lack of chromium, magnesium and vitamins C and E. Research suggests that supplementing with one or more of these nutrients can improve the performance of insulin in the body, but they should only be taken under the guidance of a qualified nutritional therapist.

Eat plenty of onions and garlic to balance glucose levels. Drink green tea instead of tea and coffee as its powerful antioxidants can be of benefit.

Complementary Remedies For Diabetes

Aromatherapy can reduce stress levels and improve circulation. For stress reduction choose from these essential oils: bergamot, rose, lavender, geranium, neroli, petitgrain, sandalwood, Scots pine. Use 6 drops of one or more of these oils in the bath, or 10 drops in 25 ml grapeseed or sweet almond oil for massage, or up to 10 drops in a burner.

Oils which enhance the circulation include: bergamot, coriander, black pepper, geranium, eucalyptus, ginger, lavender, neroli, orange, rosemary, Scots pine and rose. To reduce stress and improve circulation, massage with a blend of 4 drops lavender, 3 drops geranium and 3 drops cedarwood, in 25 ml grapeseed or sweet almond oil. If pregnant, avoid cedarwood and rosemary oils.

For more severe or chronic health problems associated with diabetes, it is best to consult a qualified practitioner.

Recommended Ready Made Natural Remedies For Diabetes

• Completia Diabetic Multivitamin – a complete multivitamin for diabetic.
• Insulate Plus – for Balanced Blood Sugar Levels and Diabetes.
• Diabetonic – helps maintain stable, normal sugar levels and acts as a tonic for the liver and pancreas.