Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by high blood sugar (glucose) levels due to the body’s inability to produce or use insulin properly. While traditional medical treatments such as insulin injections, oral medications, and lifestyle modifications are effective, some people may also turn to alternative treatments to manage their diabetes.
What Causes Diabetes
Before knowing how to treat it, let us find out what causes Diabetes. There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes.
The immune system’s attack on the pancreas’ insulin-producing cells leads to their destruction, causing type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune disorder. Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels; without it, blood sugar levels can become dangerously high. The exact cause of type 1 diabetes is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Type 2 diabetes, on the other hand, is caused by a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. Insulin resistance is a key feature of type 2 diabetes, where the body becomes resistant to the effects of insulin, and as a result, blood sugar levels can become too high. Type 2 diabetes risk factors comprise obesity, family history, physical inactivity, and high blood pressure or cholesterol levels.
Other less common types of diabetes include gestational diabetes, which occurs during pregnancy, and monogenic diabetes, which is caused by mutations in a single gene.
Overall, the causes of diabetes are complex and not fully understood, but genetic and lifestyle factors play a role in developing this condition.
Alternative Ways to Treat Diabetes
Here is a list of a few lesser-known treatment options for Diabetes
Mind-body Therapies
Mind-body therapies such as meditation, yoga, and tai chi may help improve blood sugar control by reducing anxiety and stress. High-stress levels can cause the release of hormones such as cortisol, leading to high blood sugar levels. By reducing stress, these techniques help lower blood sugar levels.
Supplements
Some supplements may help improve blood sugar control. Cinnamon can enhance insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes patients. Similarly, alpha-lipoic acid can reduce oxidative stress and improve insulin sensitivity to prevent diabetes-related cell damage. Chromium, a mineral that plays a role in glucose metabolism, may also help improve blood sugar control.
Non-invasive Vagus Nerve Stimulation
Some evidence suggests that non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation devices may have potential as a treatment for diabetes, particularly for people with type 2 diabetes.
The vagus nerve is an important nerve that runs from the brainstem to the abdomen and is involved in many bodily functions, including digestion and metabolism. Studies have shown that nVNS devices, which use electrical stimulation to activate the vagus nerve, can improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes.
For example, a randomized controlled trial published in the journal Diabetes Technology & Therapeutics in 2016 found that nVNS treatment for 12 weeks improved glucose control in people with type 2 diabetes. Another study published in the journal Frontiers in Neuroscience in 2018 found that nVNS treatment improved insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance in overweight and obese adults.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body, may help improve blood sugar control and reduce insulin resistance. Some studies have shown that acupuncture can improve insulin sensitivity, lower blood sugar levels, and improve lipid profiles in people with diabetes.
Herbal Remedies
Some herbs may also help improve blood sugar control. For example, fenugreek, a plant commonly used in Indian cuisine, may help lower blood sugar levels by slowing down the absorption of carbohydrates in the digestive tract. Bitter melon, a vegetable widely used in Asian cuisine, may also help lower blood sugar levels by increasing insulin sensitivity.
Exercise
Regular exercise is an important component of diabetes management. It helps improve insulin sensitivity, which can help lower blood sugar levels. Exercise can also help reduce the risk of complications such as heart disease and stroke. However, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional before starting a new exercise program, as certain types of exercise may be more suitable for people with diabetes.
Diet
Eating a healthy, balanced diet is also important for diabetes management. For example, foods that are high in sugar and refined carbohydrates can cause blood sugar levels to spike, so it’s important to limit the consumption of these foods. Instead, focus on foods that are high in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These foods can help slow down the absorption of carbohydrates and help regulate blood sugar levels.
Probiotics
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are beneficial for the digestive system. Some studies have shown that probiotics may help improve blood sugar control and reduce inflammation in the body. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of probiotics on diabetes.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy involves the use of essential oils to promote relaxation and reduce stress. Some essential oils, such as lavender and frankincense, may help reduce stress and improve blood sugar control. However, more research is needed to understand the effects of aromatherapy on diabetes fully.
Final Thoughts
It’s important to remember that while alternative treatments may be helpful, they should not be used as a substitute for traditional medical treatments. Diabetes is a serious condition that requires careful management, and working with a healthcare professional to develop a comprehensive treatment plan is essential for optimal health.
