Natural therapies for type 2 diabetes: 5 herbs and supplements that can help lower blood sugar levels
If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, your doctor would ask you to keep your blood sugar levels in a target range. Treatment for diabetes may lifestyle modifications and medication, but some complementary therapies such as herbs and supplements may also help. In fact, many common herbs and spices are claimed to have anti-diabetic properties.
Several clinical studies suggest that herbal and natural therapies may improve blood sugar control. Hence, many people with diabetes are now turning to natural ingredients or remedies to help manage their condition. But it’s important to note that while these herbal and natural therapies may provide relief from symptoms and reduce the risk of complications when combined with conventional therapy, they will not cure diabetes and should not replace medications.
Herbs and supplements that may help with blood sugar control
Here are some herbal and natural therapies that may benefit people with diabetes:
1. Aloe vera: It is claimed that the antioxidant activity of aloe vera may help protect and repair the beta cells in the pancreas that produce insulin, which allows cells to use glucose. Preliminary research suggests that taking aloe vera juice can help improve blood sugar levels, which may be useful in the treatment of diabetes. Aloe vera is one of the most popular herbal remedies for topical skin conditions. Aloe has also been linked to several health benefits, including weight loss, decreased cholesterol, and improved digestion, etc. To use aloe, you can add the juiced pulp to a drink or smoothie or take capsules that contain the plant as supplements.
2. Bitter gourd/ melon ( karela): Some scientists have been studying the potential medicinal uses of bitter melon, or Momordica charantia. Bitter melon, also known as bitter gourd or (karela in India) has been used in traditional Chinese and Indian medicine for centuries. Research suggests that taking bitter melon can lead to a reduction in blood sugar levels in some people. However, more research is required to prove that bitter melon can be used for diabetes management. People can use bitter gourd in the form of juice, seeds, blended vegetable pulp, or supplements. If you have diabetes and are considering using bitter melon for blood sugar control, you should talk to your doctor first to check that it is safe to take alongside your prescribed medication. According to a report in Diabetes.co.uk, taking bitter melon together with your diabetes medication and/or insulin may pose a risk of having hypoglycemia (extremely low blood sugar).
3. Cinnamon: Cinnamon is a popular ingredient used in a number of food items - such as sweets, baked goods and other dishes. Research has shown that the spice may be useful for diabetics by improving levels of glucose, insulin and insulin sensitivity, lipids or fats in the body. Cinnamon has also been linked to numerous health benefits, ranging from improving lean body mass and weight loss to reducing the risk of heart disease. In fact, a 2013 study concluded that the spice may lower fasting glucose levels and increased insulin sensitivity. However, more work is needed to confirm the safety and effectiveness of cinnamon as a therapy for diabetes. People can use cinnamon in teas, baked goods, cooked dishes, or as a supplement.
4. Fenugreek: Another common home remedy being used to help with glycemic control is fenugreek. There is some evidence that the seeds may help prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes. For instance, a 3-year study published in 2015 found that taking fenugreek seeds led to increased levels of insulin in the body, resulting in reduced blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Fenugreek seeds contain fiber and other compounds that can help to slow down the digestion of carbs and sugar. The aromatic plant has many uses - both culinary and medicinal. People can use fenugreek as a herb in a variety of dishes, or add it to warm, etc. You can also use it in the form of capsule as a supplement.
5. Milk thistle: Research suggests that milk thistle may help people with diabetes, especially when used along with traditional treatment. It is claimed that the herb can help reduce blood sugar levels and improve cholesterol in people with type 2 diabetes. The compound silymarin, the extract from milk thistle, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may be useful for people with diabetes. Many people take milk thistle as a supplement. However, it’s best to speak to your doctor before using milk thistle as it may interfere with your diabetes medication.
The bottom line is, you should always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before using any herbs or supplements to treat your diabetes to ensure it is safe. Additionally, keep in mind that herbs and supplements should be used as a complementary treatment option only.