Due to the widespread nature of diabetes, important research is needed to create new and effective therapies. Insulin, dietary changes, and blood sugar control medications are frequently used to treat diabetes. Patients with diabetes must follow these therapies for the remainder of their lives; they do not, however, cure the disease.
Regenerative medicine, a cutting-edge field, offers promising therapies utilizing stem cells. Meanwhile, traditional diabetes management methods such as Ayurveda, Yoga, herbal medicines, and acupuncture are being eclipsed by modern strategies like vanadium supplements and adherence to the DASH diet.
These tactics hold a lot of promise when combined since they might be able to do more than just managing diabetes.
Alternative ways to treat diabetes
There are different ways to treat diabetes without the use of regular medicines:
1. Stem cell therapy:
Stem cell therapy aims to repair damaged tissues and organs, particularly focusing on the pancreas, where insulin-producing cells are affected in diabetes. The idea is to use stem cells to generate new insulin-producing cells or to help the body regenerate its own beta cells, thus improving blood sugar control naturally.
Benefits:
Restoring the body’s innate capacity to produce insulin may reduce or eliminate the need for insulin injections in individuals with Type 1 diabetes. Additionally, it has the potential to enhance insulin sensitivity and pancreatic function in individuals with Type 2 diabetes. This approach targets the underlying causes of the condition rather than merely managing its symptoms.
Additionally, stem cell therapy reduces the risk of developing other diabetic complications, such as kidney, nerve, and heart problems, providing a more comprehensive and long-lasting course of treatment.
2. Ayurveda yoga:
Practicing Ayurvedic yoga and other related exercises can help control blood sugar and enhance insulin sensitivity. In addition to these advantages, this age-old Indian method lowers the risk of heart disease and the harm that diabetes does to nerves.
Ayurvedic yoga is a viable option for treating diabetes, even if you are not a very active person. For thousands of years, the ancient Indian medical system known as Ayurveda has been practiced there.
Here’s how yoga can help with diabetes:
- It helps blood flow better throughout your body.
- It gives more oxygen to your brain.
- It reduces stress, which can affect your blood sugar levels.
- Certain yoga poses, like bending forward, can stimulate insulin production.
- Breathing exercises in yoga can help control blood sugar levels and how much insulin your body makes.
3. Herbal acupuncture:
Some research suggests that combining acupuncture with herbal remedies could serve as a safe and effective complementary treatment for type 2 diabetes. However, further research is necessary to comprehensively assess its efficacy and safety.
Herbal acupuncture is a blend of traditional acupuncture with herbal therapy that’s injected into the acupuncture points.
The herbs and alternative therapies used include:
- Astragalus (Astragalus propinquus or Astragalus membranaceus)
- Red sage (Salvia miltiorrhiza)
- Dong quai, also known as female ginseng (Angelica sinensis), mixed with vitamin B12.
4. Vanadium supplements:
Vanadium, found naturally in certain foods like mushrooms and herbs, has shown potential as a natural remedy for diabetes. However, further research is required to determine its effectiveness and safety before widespread use.
Having too much vanadium can lead to:
- Feeling sick to your stomach
- Throwing up
- Having diarrhea
- Not feeling hungry
- Developing green-black tongue
5. DASH diet:
The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, similar to the Mediterranean diet, is recommended for managing high blood pressure but can also benefit those with diabetes. It emphasizes whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and low-fat dairy while limiting alcohol, sodium, and sugary foods.
Benefits:
- Helps control blood pressure
- Makes insulin work better
- Lowers cholesterol levels
- Supports reaching a healthy weight, which is important for managing diabetes.
Why should you talk to a doctor?
Talking to your doctor is important because they can help you figure out which treatments are safe and will work best for you. If you’re thinking about trying natural or herbal remedies, your doctor can make sure they won’t mess up the diabetes medicine or any other medications you’re using.
How can you find reliable herbal supplements for diabetes?
Consulting with your healthcare provider, a local naturopathic physician, or a pharmacist is advisable to receive guidance. Seeking advice from an expert can help determine which supplements may be most effective for managing your diabetes. If you use any vitamins or drugs for any other health concerns, it’s crucial to let them know about them.
Wrap up
It may be advantageous for people with type 2 diabetes to include alternative diabetes treatment techniques into their daily routine. These approaches encompass natural therapies, exercises such as yoga, acupuncture or herbal acupuncture, and dietary modifications like following the DASH diet. Additionally, advancements in stem cell research and therapy hold promise for transforming non-traditional approaches to diabetes treatment. This could involve the development of a therapy for Type 1 diabetes and significant progress in managing Type 2 diabetes. Continued research and enhancements in therapy through clinical trials may make stem cell therapy a widely accessible, safe, and effective treatment option for diabetes mellitus patients globally.