Diabetes mellitus, also known as type 2 diabetes, is mainly caused by too many wrong foods, genetics, toxins, lack of sleep, and emotional stress. Patients with type 2 diabetes often seek natural remedies in addition to their conventional medicine to help maintain the disease.
Using foods and natural medicine is the best way to increase the chances of the treatment working. You should always consult with your doctor before starting any new therapies. Below are some of the top natural remedies known to work.
1. Fiber and Barley
Consuming foods rich in fiber reduces insulin and blood sugar concentrations. Doctors recommend taking 30 grams of fiber per day. Research shows that most people get around 6-8 grams, barely enough. You can also take fiber supplements like Metamucil, but eating adequate veggies is the perfect and safest way to achieve your goal.
Barley is a high protein, high fiber grain with loads of data to support its function in helping improve insulin, cholesterol, blood sugar, and general inflammation. An added advantage is that it does not need soaking and can be cooked for less than 15 minutes.
2. Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera sap is mostly known for its laxative effect. Ensure you get the juice from the gel. It has become evident that the use of the gel, which is the gummy material inside the leaves, has increased. However, ensure any product you buy does not have anthraquinones or aloin to avoid ending up in the bathroom.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar
Acetic acid is the main compound in Apple Cider Vinegar that is responsible for its many health benefits. Studies have shown results from approaches using ACV. When you take two tablespoons before bedtime, it will reduce your morning fasting sugar levels. Better yet, take 1-2 tablespoons of ACV with meals to reduce the glycemic load of a carbohydrate-rich meal. ACV can be consumed alone before a meal, or it can be mixed into tea or salad dressings.
4. Zinc
People suffering from type 2 diabetes are commonly found to be zinc deficient. Research has shown that zinc supplementation can lower blood sugar levels and A1C, have an antioxidant effect, and even help cure some complications that are related to diabetes. However, remember that zinc taken in large doses can inhibit the absorption of other minerals, for instance, copper. Always consult a physician to guide you on the appropriate dosing.
5. Berberine
This is an all-time favorite botanical usually found in plants like Coptis, goldenseal, barberry, and Oregon grapefruit. It is mainly used to reduce hba1c and blood sugar. However, it can inhibit the metabolism of traditional medication and should never be taken by a pregnant woman.
6. Chromium
It is commonly found in brewer’s yeast, and it inhibits glucose metabolism. It helps lower A1C and blood sugar levels. However, it is not advisable to use this supplement if you have kidney disease. This list of herbs is not medical and should only be taken following advice from a healthcare provider.