Diabetes

What is it?

Diabetes is a group of diseases that result in high blood sugar (too much glucose in the blood) due to the body’s inability to produce or properly use insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar.

What are the symptoms?

Frequent urination
Excessive thirst (polydipsia)
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue
Blurry vision
Slow-healing sores or cuts
Increased hunger (polyphagia)
Tingling or numbness in hands or feet (especially in type 2 diabetes)

What else could it be? (Differential diagnosis)

Hyperthyroidism
Cushing's syndrome
Insulin resistance (pre-diabetes)
Kidney disease
Adrenal disorders

What are the aggravating factors?

Unhealthy diet (high in refined sugars and fats)
Lack of physical activity
Obesity or being overweight
Stress
Family history of diabetes
Age (increased risk with older age)

What types of food are helpful?

Low glycemic index foods: Focus on foods that have a low glycemic index to help manage blood sugar levels (e.g., whole grains, legumes, vegetables).
Fiber-rich foods: Include more fiber to slow glucose absorption and improve blood sugar control (e.g., vegetables, fruits, whole grains).
Lean proteins: Include sources like chicken, fish, and legumes for muscle maintenance.
Healthy fats: Incorporate sources of unsaturated fats like olive oil, nuts, and avocados.

Sample Recipe: Quinoa and Vegetable Stir-Fry

Ingredients: Quinoa, bell peppers, onions, broccoli, olive oil, low-sodium soy sauce.
Directions: Cook quinoa and stir-fry the vegetables with olive oil and soy sauce. Mix together for a healthy, fiber-rich meal that is low on the glycemic index.

What are the traditional treatments?

Insulin therapy: For type 1 diabetes, insulin injections or an insulin pump are required. For type 2 diabetes, insulin may be prescribed if other treatments fail.
Oral medications: Medications like metformin, sulfonylureas, or GLP-1 receptor agonists can help control blood sugar.
Diet and exercise: Lifestyle changes, including a balanced diet and regular physical activity, are central to diabetes management.

What are the natural and alternative treatments?

Cinnamon: Some studies suggest cinnamon may help improve insulin sensitivity.
Apple cider vinegar: May help regulate blood sugar levels, especially after meals.
Berberine: An herb that has been shown to help lower blood sugar in type 2 diabetes.
Chromium: A mineral that may improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control.
Fenugreek: Has been shown to have beneficial effects on blood glucose levels.