Managing Diabetes Naturally

Managing Diabetes Naturally

Outline

Introduction

1. What is diabetes - an overview

2. Types of diabetes

3. How do I know If I have diabetes

4. What causes high blood sugar

5. Type 1 and type 2 diabetes explained

6. The symptoms of low glucose in type 1 diabetes

7. Common. Symptoms of type 2 diabetes

8. Causes of type 2 diabetes

9. Effects of Raised insulin

10. Risk factors in type 2 diabetes

11. How can I cut my risk or avoid diabetes

12. How do I reverse diabetes naturally

13. Top 41 foods that can reverse diabetes - copy

14. What if I suddenly feel that my sugar is low?

15. Foods that help control blood sugar

16. Fruits and diabetes

17. Spices for diabetes

18. Best seeds for diabetes

19. Best herbs for diabetes

20. Breakfast ideas for diabetes

21. Lunch ideas for diabetes

22. Best bedtime snacks for diabetes

23. Essential oils for diabetes

24. What about fermented foods

25. General tips on how to say No to diabetes.

Introduction

Diabetes is the biggest health epidemic we have and the standard medical treatment is focused on medications and insulin and it's simply the WRONG approach. Restoring healthy blood sugar levels and reversing diabetes is simple if you give your body what it needs. In the 3 days before us, we shall look at diabetes generally but more focus shall be on type 2 diabetes which effect the elderly more.

1. What is diabetes?

(An Overview)

Diabetes is a chronic, often debilitating and sometimes fatal disease, in which the body either cannot produce insulin or cannot properly use the insulin it produces. Insulin is a hormone that controls the amount of glucose (sugar) in the blood. Diabetes leads to high blood sugar levels, which can damage organs, blood vessels and nerves. The body needs insulin to use sugar as an energy source. It is a situation where the sugar level of the blood goes beyond normal. 

Diabetes could be very deceptive in the sense that one may not feel sick as the blood sugar rises higher than normal, but rising sugar levels can damage blood vessels in no time. Blood vessels are to the body what fuel hoses are to a vehicle. Imagine them being damaged.

Diabetes is a defect in the body’s ability to convert glucose (sugar) to energy. Glucose is the main source of fuel for our body. When food is digested it is changed into fats, protein, or carbohydrates. Foods that affect blood sugars are called carbohydrates. Carbohydrates, when digested, change to glucose.

When we consume carbohydrates, they are broken into the form of energy which the body recognizes and utilizes called Glucose. Glucose is then transferred to the blood where the cells use them for energy. For this transfer to take place, insulin is needed. The organ than produces this insulin is known as pancreas. They are produced by the better cells in the pancreas.

When a person develops diabetes, the process is somewhat truncated. When production of insulin is insufficient, diabetes develops. This is not a palatable condition to live in or live with.

Introduction

Diabetes is the biggest health epidemic we have and the standard medical treatment is focused on medications and insulin and it's simply the WRONG approach. Restoring healthy blood sugar levels and reversing diabetes is simple if you give your body what it needs. In the 3 days before us, we shall look at diabetes generally but more focus shall be on type 2 diabetes which effect the elderly more.

2. Types of Diabetes

Two popular types of diabetes are known. Type 1 and 11, though a third one gestational diabetes which occurs during pregnancy exists, but not popular as it goes after the gestation period. However it is said that people who have gestational diabetes are more likely to suffer diabetes later in life.

In this Dia ussil, we shall focus more on Type 2 diabetes which affects the mature adult more.

4. How do I know If I have diabete? there are verious signs that signals the onset of diabetes, however it is not enough to label ourself a diabetic just because you are experiencing one or more of the symptoms of diabetes. It is proper to undergo a proper medical examination and confirmatory tests before dying you are diabetic.

To diagnose type 1 and type 2 diabetes

Your doctor or other healthcare provider will order urine and blood tests to find out if you have diabetes. There are several different types of blood tests used to diagnose diabetes.

Fasting blood sugar test : After fasting for 12-hours a glucose level is checked in your blood. If it is high, it is indicative of diabetes.

Hemoglobin A1C test : This test tells your doctor how your average blood glucose level has been over the past 2-3 months.

Normal ranges for HbA1c are between 4% and 5.6%.

HbA1c levels that range from 5.7% to 6.4% indicates increased risk of diabetes.

HbA1c levels higher than 6.5% indicate diabetes, while higher percentages indicate either worsening diabetic disease or poor response to diabetic treatments.

Random blood sugar test: This is a test of your blood sugar at the moment your blood is drawn, but this number can vary greatly based on when you last ate. These and any other confirmatory tests that your health care provider may deem fit.

4. Distinct Types of Diabetes have been identified.

In the continuous search for solution on Managing Diabetes as one of the disease challenging humanity, a group of researchers came up with more distinct types of diabetes to help improve on its management 

The study revealed five distinct forms of diabetes, three of which were severe and two that were mild. The team categorized these as follows:

Cluster 1 : severe autoimmune diabetes (curr known as type 1 diabetes), characterized by insulin deficiency and the presence of autoantibodies. This was identified in 6–15 percent of subjects.

Cluster 2 : severe insulin-deficient diabetes, characterized by younger age, insulin deficiency and poor metabolic control, but no autoantibodies. This was identified in 9–20 percent of subjects.

Cluster 3 : severe insulin-resistant diabetes, characterized by severe insulin resistance an significantly higher risk of kidney disease. Thi was identified in 11–17 percent of subjects.

Cluster 4 : mild obesity-related diabetes, most common in obese individuals. This affected 123 percent of subjects.

Cluster 5 : mild age-related diabetes, most common in elderly individuals. This was the common form, affecting 39–47 percent of subjects.

The researchers note that each of these five types "were also genetically distinct," meaning that there were no genetic mutations that were shared across all five clusters.

5. What causes high blood Sugar? 

A number of things can cause blood sugar to rise hyperglycemia:

In a knotsheln, if you have type 1, you may not have given yourself enough insulin.

If you have type 2, your body may have enough insulin, but it is not as effective as it should be.

You ate more than planned or exercised less than planned.

You have stress from an illness, such as a cold or flu.

You have other stress, such as family conflicts or school or dating problem.

6. *Type 1 and Type 11 Diabetes explained* 

In type 1 diabetes, the immune system mistakenly attacks the pancreatic beta cells, which produce insulin. They do not know what causes this to happen, but scientists believe childhood infections may play a role.

The immune system destroys these cells, which means that the body can no longer make enough insulin to regulate blood glucose levels. A person with type 1 diabetes will need to use supplemental insulin from the time they receive the diagnosis and for the rest of their life.

Type 1 often affects children and young adults, but it can happen later in life. It can start suddenly, and it tends to worsen quickly.

In type 2 diabetes, the body's cells start to resist the effects of insulin. In time, the body stops producing enough insulin, so it can no longer use glucose effectively.

This means glucose cannot enter the cells. Instead, it builds up in the blood.

7. The signs and symptoms of low blood glucose in type 1 or 11 are easy to recognize, the common symptoms include:

Rapid heartbeat 

Sweating

Whiteness of skin

Anxiety

Numbness in fingers, toes, and lips

Sleepiness

Confusion

Headaches

Slurred speech and some unexplainable uneasiness.

8. Common Symptoms of type 2 diabetes include:* 

1. Frequent urination

2. Increased taste

3. Always feeling hungry

4. Blurred vision

5. Slowed healing of

      Wounds

6. Tingling. Numbness.

      or pain in the hands or feet

7. Always feeling tired

8. Itching and frequent yeast infection

9. Insomnia due to poor circulation

10. Patches and dryness on the skin

*9. Risk Factors for Type 2 Diabetes* 

There are several factors that predisposes a person to type 2 diabetes. Fortunately some are preventable or can be reduced, while some factors, cannot be helped or reduced. 

Risk factors that a person can reduce include their cholesterol levels and weight.

Having higher levels of bad cholesterol and excess weight both increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

People can reduce some, but not all, of their risk factors for type 2 diabetes.

Risk factors that a person cannot change include:

 *Age* : Older people have a higher risk of developing diabetes than young people.

 *Race* : American Indians, African Americans, Native Hawaiians, Mexican Americans, Pacific Islanders, and Asian Americans have been known to be at a

higher risk of diabetes.

 *Family history* : Having a close family member, such as a sibling or parent, with type 2 diabetes increases a person's risk.

 *Gestational diabetes:* Women who develop gestational diabetes during pregnancy are at greater risk of type 2 diabetes.

10. How can I cut my risk or prevent diabetes. 

To say the truth most Elderly folks that are not exercising enough have almost 100% chance of being diabetic, however being aware of diabetes may ward it off or delay it's onset

Here are a few things to do, to reduce the chance of early diabetes:

Following are the 11 easy ways to cut the risk.

. Cut your calorie intake

. Strictly avoid processed foods

. Do not skip breakfast

. Avoid long gap between meals

. Include more complex carbs and protein in your diet

. Maintain your ideal body weight

. Walk more, sit less

. Cut down your screen

 time

Eat nutrient dense foods

. Take out at least 20 minutes for physical activity daily. Go for a brisk walk and exercise

Reduce caffeine

Include healthy fats

Be aware of diabetes, get knowledge about diabetes, such as this 

. Get enough sleep

. Take part in de-stressing activities like playing a sport

11. What If I suddenly noticed that my sugar is low.

I have I some occasions noticed that my energy level suddenly dropped showing sign of low sugar or lor BP. I usually get some natural foods that are handily to eat for quick energy. Though many times the food needed may not be on hand but, if we thing we be exposed to hunger or empty stomach for a long time. As a mature adult. Better go prepared with something in your handbag to help in case of sudden low sugar,

Mild cases of hypoglycemia can be treated by drinking orange juice or eating a glucose tablet—those will quickly raise your blood glucose level.

On the medical side, If you have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and you take insulin, you should always carry glucagon with you—should you become unresponsive or unconscious because of hypoglycemia, you will need a quick injection of glucagon. Glucagon is a hormone that starts a process in your body that raises your blood glucose level. Though we are more concerned on Managing it naturally, one orange juice as earlier stated can also help raise glucose level

*12 Foods that help control blood sugar Naturally* 

 *1. Cinnamon* 

Ceylon Cinnamon (“true cinnamon”) is the best choice as this type of cinnamon is more closely associated with potential health benefits involving blood sugar regulation.

Due to the lower sugar levels while using cinnamon, some physicians recommend avoiding other supplements on the list such as fenugreek, garlic, bitter melon, and ginseng.

02. *Okro* 

A medical study from 2011 showed that okra helped reduce the absorption of glucose and lowered blood sugar levels in rats. Another study on rats was conducted showed positive effect on diabetes. I have personally employed regular consumption of okro soup on few occasions to ward off diabetic symptoms. Ensure not to overcook your okro. Soaking fresh okra overnight is another popular okro remedy for diabetes which I am yet to try.

3 Garlic (Allium)* 

Several research is showing that taking garlic can help you manage the symptoms of type 2 diabetes.

A comparison of studies into the antidiabetic effect of garlic found that garlic supplementation helps to reduce blood glucose levels. 

I personally noticed at a time when I was taking garlic regularly at night manage dental and gum issues and still chew garlic in the morning with honey. After which I took Tumeric and ginger tea or cocoa and cinnamon over a week or two, I started experiencing low blood sugar at night. Through studies and the Grace of God. I found out and withdrew the excess.   

Some trials on tablets of dry garlic powder were effective in controlling diabetes symptoms. Other trials found that garlic capsules enhanced with allicin were also effective in managing type 2 diabetes.

Studies using rats found that aged garlic extracts have a strong antidiabetic effect. Scientists noted that aged garlic extract (AGE) were just as potent as fresh garlic in helping to lower blood sugar glucose.

4 *Ginger Root* 

Ginger root is one of the most common anti inflammatory spice in our local market today due to its versatile role in Managing several ailments ranging from cough. Pains, cold and of cause diabete is not left out.

Ginger root can be consumed raw, powdered, extracted into oil and liquids, and in an extracted supplement form. It also has been suggested to help with nausea, heartburn, bronchitis and menstrual symptoms

*5. Mystleotoe* 

According to organic facts website, The anti-diabetic potential of this herb is a relatively new area of research, but it has been practised traditionally for generations. An animal study shows that it does have the ability to lower blood glucose levels in laboratory tests, and other findings have shown that the extract stimulated insulin production in pancreatic cells, helping to regulate the levels in the body and lessening the severity of the disorder. It is commonly prescribed as a natural remedy for people with diabetes. 

My experience with mysloetoe shows that the tea will surely exbit positive effect on diabetes considering the fact that it calms you down, improves blood circulation and makes you have a restful sleep. No double quality sleep helps the body in Managing sugar generally.

*6. Olive oil:* 

This stuff is liquid gold. In fact, it contains an anti- inflammatory component so strong that researchers liken it to aspirin. This may be one reason why people who follow a Mediterranean diet—a traditional way of eating that emphasizes olive oil along with produce, whole grains, and lean meat—have such low rates of heart disease and diabetes, both of which are linked with inflammation. Unlike butter, the good fat in olive oil won’t increase insulin resistance and may even help reverse it. A touch of olive oil also slows digestion, so your meal is less likely to spike your glucose. Dribble it on salads, baked potatoes, pasta…just about anything.

 7. Peanut butter:* 

One study found that eating peanut butter dampens the appetite for up to 2 hours longer than a low-fibre, high-carb snack, making this childhood favorite a grown-up weight-loss ally. The monounsaturated fats in PB also help control blood sugar.

 *8. Sweet potatoes:* 

A baked sweet potato instead of a baked white potato, and your blood sugar will rise about 30 percent less. Sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients and disease- fighting fibre, almost 40 percent of which is the soluble kind that lowers cholesterol and slows digestion. They’re also extra rich in carotenoids, orange and yellow pigments that play

 *9. Greens:* 

Remember that green vegetables are not left out. Most are fibre rich and low in calorie too, just right for you whether managing diabetes or preventing it.

10. Cold-Water Fish* 

Those who suffer from diabetes are twice more likely to suffer also from heart disease. A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids found in cold water fish, can help to lower “bad “cholesterol and raise your “good” cholesterol.

Seafood is a great source for omega 3, such as: halibut, herring, mackerel, oysters, salmon, sardines, trout, tuna and cod.

Vegetables, especially green leafy ones, such as: kale, parsley, mint, Brussels sprouts, spinach and watercress, are rich in ALA, one form of omega-3 fatty acids (although ALA isn’t as powerful as the other omega 3 fatty acids, DHA and EPA)

 

*11. Bitterleaf* 

Bitter leaf is a very bitter herb often neglected but great for those aiming to reduce their blood sugar. I prefer it raw, best taken empty stomach after wash to reduce the bitters. It works fast too. Never drink the bitter leaf water after the first washing. It actually contains some acids that may be harmful. It is also used in cooking soups, however, for reducing blood sugar., it is better to Consume raw after washing.

*12. Curry Leaves* 

Another popular ingredient in the Indian spice rack, curry leaves help to stabilize blood glucose levels and impact carbohydrate metabolism. An Indian study published in International Journal of Development Research studied in detail the effects curry leaves have on diabetes type 2 . According to the research data, curry leaves contain a phytochemical that can help control blood sugar level byin patients with Diabetes type 2 by reducing fasting and postprandial blood sugar level. Diabetic rats given a dose of about 12gm /day for a month revealed that curry leaves may treat diabetes by influencing carbohydrate metabolism and improving liver and kidney function. Also, the amazing antioxidant properties of curry leaves can boost pancreatic cell production, thereby improving insulin function.

*13. Black seeds* 

We all know that blackseed either ground as powder and added to teas and other cereals increases antioxidants level in the body which Early research shows that taking black seed powder can improve blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Black seed might also improve levels of cholesterol in people with diabetes. Doses of 2 grams daily seem to be needed for any benefit.

*14. Rosemary* 

An aromatic herb that is used commonly to add flavor and aroma to meats and soups, Rosemary also helps normalize blood sugar levels naturally. It promotes weight loss as well, which is a double boon for many diabetics who struggle with weight issues. A research conducted in Jordan to study the effects of rosemary on lipid profile in diabetic rats proved that rosemary has no significant influence on serum glucose level and lipid profile of normal rats. But when rosemary extract was administered to diabetic rats for 4 weeks, their blood sugar levels reduced by 20%, cholesterol levels by 22%, triglyceride levels by 24%, and LDL by 27% while HDL increased by 18% respectively. The study was published in African Journal of Plant Science Vol. 6 in 2012.

*15. Chicken or turkey:* 

These meats can be high-fat disasters or perfectlys healthy fare. It all depends on the cut and how it’s prepared. Breast meat, whether ground or whole, is always lower in fat than dark meat such as thighs and drumsticks. Never eat the skin because of its high saturated fat content, and when buying ground turkey, make sure the package says ground turkey breast.

 *16. Eggs:* 

Eggs are another excellent, inexpensive source of high-quality protein—so high, in fact, that egg protein is the gold standard nutritionists use to rank all other proteins. An egg or two won’t raise your cholesterol, and will keep you feeling full and satisfied for hours afterward. Such a magic food deserves a little sleight of hand in its preparation.

 *17. Fish:* 

The single deadliest complications of diabetes is heart disease, and eating fish just once a week can reduce your risk by 40 per cent, according to a Harvard School of Public Health study. The fatty acids in fish reduce inflammation in the body —a major contributor to coronary disease—as well as insulin resistance and diabetes. And unless you’re pregnant, don’t worry too much about potential chemical contaminants. An exhaustive review of the scientific literature on fish and human health by Harvard researchers led to the conclusion that eating it far outweighs any accompanying risks.

 *18. Flaxseed:* 

 these shiny brown seeds hit the diabetes trifecta: They’re rich in protein, fibre, and good fats similar to the kind found in fish. They’re also a source of magnesium, a mineral that’s key to blood-sugar control because it helps cells use insulin. Ground flaxseed spoils quickly, so buy whole seeds in bulk, keep in the fridge, and grind as needed.

 *19. Milk and yogurt:* 

 Both are rich in protein and calcium, which studies show may help people lose weight. And diets that include plenty of dairy may fight insulin resistance, a core problem behind diabetes. Go low-fat or fat-free, though. If you don’t like the taste of skim milk, try 1 percent. It’s a little thicker and creamier

*20. Pulses* 

Legumes such as lentils, peas, beans and chickpeas are low in fat and calories and also rich in fiber and protein.

These fibre slows the absorption of sugar into the blood and reduces the glycemic load. They are a great addition to soups, salads and a variety of other dishes.

*21. Raw Cacao Powder* 

Cacao powder comes from grinding up cacao beans aftera removing the cocoa butter (cocoa fat). Cacao powder is claimed to be a superfood because it contains naturally occurring antioxidants with many health benefits.

Flavoniols in products containing high levels of cacao can help to manage many of the symptoms of diabetes.

Naturally occurring Antioxidants and flavonoids in cacao extracts have an anti-diabetic effect. Cocoa flavonoids can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood fat levels (lipids). Researchers suggested that daily consumption of unsweetened dark cacao powder that contains high levels of cacao could help manage type 2 diabetes.

*22. Oatmeal* 

Oats contain a high percentage of fiber, B vitamins (especially B1), vitamin E and other antioxidant that Supports energy production which is sometimes lacking in diabetics.

Some recent Studies found that oatmeal may help to reduce the amount of insulin diabetics require. In the study, people with type 2 diabetes consumed oatmeal for 2 days. Researchers noted that because of the meals containing oats, the diabetics needed less insulin. Better to sprinkle a dash of cinnamon and some nuts do as to make it better breakfast for diabetes

*14. Fruits and Diabetes* 

Fruits have carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They are naturally low in fat (except for avocados) and sodium. Most fruits have more carbs than do vegetables.

 *Best Choices:** 

Plain fruits such as apples and oranges not more than one a day

Fresh fruit

Garden egg

Cucumbers

Pineaples in moderation and occasionally 

100% fruit juice, and best juiced with the fibre like carrot and paired with non sweet fruit.

Pears. Ube, or English pears in moderstion

Avocadoes.

Most low calorie and seasonal fruits for diabetics if taken in moderation and at the right time. 

 *Worst Choices:* 

Canned fruit with heavy sugar syrup

Chewy fruit rolls

Regular jam, jelly, and preserves (unless portion is kept small)

Watermelon

Riped pawpaw unless mixed with cinnamon after a workout

Bananas occasionally, best, before, during or just after a workout. 

Sweetened fruit juices

Fruit punch,

 fruit drinks, fruit juice drinks

15 Spices for diabetes* 

Cinnamon

Garlic

Ginger

Tumeric

Cloves

Thyme

Coriander

Cayenne peppee

Black pepper

Bell peppers

Curry

Onions

Sea salt

*16. Best seeds for diabetes* 

Flaxseeds

Mustard seeds

Black seeds

Fenugreek seeds

Fennel seeds

Abere seeds

African oil been seeds (ogbono seeds)

Pumpkin seeds

Moringa seeds

Chia seeds

Sesama seeds and most other seeds due to their low calorie, high antioxidant and nutrient density

*17. Best herbs for diabetes* 

Guava leaf

Pawpaw leaf

Bitter leaf

Neem leaf

Moringa leaf

Pumpkin leaves

Basil leaf

Stone breaker

Cotton wool leaf tea

Mango leaf

Lemon leaf

Mystletoe tea

Kudin tea

Corn silk and several others

*18. Best Teas for diabetes* 

Green tea

Mistletoe teo

Coffee - occasion due to caffeine

Pure cocoa

Black tea - occasional

Lemon grass tea

Hibiscus flower tea - zobo

Bay leaf tea

Soghurm tea

Moringa leaf tea

Peppermint tea

Rosemary tea

Barley tea

Most non caffeinated teas are good in moderation for diabetes due to their low calorie nature and being a source of hydration

*19. What About fermented foods?* 

All fermented foods are good in moderation for diabetics as they are easily digestible and enhance nutrient absorption and help maintain healthy gut health which is necessary for diabetes management and prevention

The most common fermented foods around us are:

Ogiri - locust beans

Iru

Dawadawa

Yoghurt - not the sugary and flavoured ones all over our shops and super markets

Fermented millet, or soghurm or kunu

Soyabeans

African oil bean seed - ugbah

Garri - Ijebu or any fermented garri

Fermented green pawpaw

Recently we have added fermented okra as the real cure for diabetes, though I have not tried it, has any body in the house tried fermented okra for diabetes. I know it works even as Soup when used regularly to ward off diabetes. and many others.

*19. What About fermented foods?* 

All fermented foods are good in moderation for diabetics as they are easily digestible and enhance nutrient absorption and help maintain healthy gut health which is necessary for diabetes management and prevention

The most common fermented foods around us are:

Ogiri - locust beans

Iru

Dawadawa

Yoghurt - not the sugary and flavoured ones all over our shops and super markets

Fermented millet, or soghurm or kunu

Soyabeans

African oil bean seed - ugbah

Garri - Ijebu or any fermented garri

Fermented green pawpaw

Recently we have added fermented okra as the real cure for diabetes, though I have not tried it, has any body in the house tried fermented okra for diabetes. I know it works even as Soup when used regularly to ward off diabetes. and many others.

20.Include occasional bitters

Bitter leaf and other bitters: Most of us are usually concerned with consuming tasty meals, yes tasty meals are good but as you approach your 40s and 50s, taste should not be everything anymore but your health. Bitter leaf whether eaten raw, that is after washing it about twice, the leaves could be eaten raw or boiled in clean water and the water drunk occasionally during the week especially first thing in the morning, by doing this, you are saying NO to diabetes and blood sugar is regulated. This applies to other bitters too like bitter cola, bitter melon and the rest bitters. If you snack on these bitters occasionally

In summary, it is important to state that diabetics should keep healthy meals at regular intervals to avoid sharp drop or rise in blood sugar.