If you are a type-2 diabetic, you may be looking for ways to control your blood sugar naturally and limit the amount of inflammation in your body. Although there are many diabetic medications that may be prescribed for your condition, some of these pharmaceutical drugs have significant side effects that you may find alarming.
Here are a few natural substances that may be able to naturally treat diabetes.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a fragrant spice that may seem to have little to do with blood sugar control. However, the spice, which comes from the bark of various Cinnamon trees, can be added to the diet to help alleviate diabetic symptoms.
Cinnamon contains a large number of antioxidants. Additionally, the spice can help increase glucose availability to the cells and improve insulin sensitivity. Cinnamon may also cause a decline in fasting blood sugar levels.
Still, it is important to use cinnamon under a physician's supervision and take only recommended quantities. There are several types of cinnamon that are often available, including Cassia and Ceylon cinnamon. Cassia is more common in the United States, but it contains small amounts of coumarin that could result in liver problems if over-consumed.
Berberine
Berberine may be derived from multiple plants, such as goldenseal, barberry, and Oregon grape. The supplement, which has a bitter taste, can be used to treat high cholesterol, hypertension, and diabetes.
Berberine is believed to improve insulin sensitivity to control blood sugar. In fact, it is considered as effective as the popular diabetic drug, metfromin, at controlling the blood sugar.
Too much berberine can result in digestive upset for some people.
Chromium
Chromium is a natural mineral that may help insulin work more efficiently. Thus, it may help improve blood-sugar control for diabetic patients.
Chromium picolinate, a chromium compound supplement, may be taken by mouth to help lower the amount of insulin in the blood. Chromium supplementation may also help diabetic patients avoid weight gain and reduce fat deposits.
Vanadium
Vanadium is another natural compound that may help treat diabetes. The compound is believed to help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the need for supplemental insulin.
If you are considering a natural medicine supplement to help in the treatment of your diabetes, schedule a consultation with a physician in your local area. A doctor can help you avoid dangerous interactions with your current medications, while helping you select the supplements that may benefit you most.
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