Here’s a fact you must know - about 5% of the population of NZ has diabetes, predominantly type 2 diabetes. And surprisingly, diabetes is getting more prevalent in middle-aged adults and young people, aged 25-39. Ever wondered why? This is because of the constantly changing lifestyle, followed by acute stress, changing food habits, and physical exertion.
Let’s face it. If you have diabetes, monitoring and controlling your blood glucose levels may not always be easy for you. While yes, there’s no permanent cure for diabetes, doctors believe that a person can reverse it. If that’s the case, you might look for ways to manage your diabetes through natural remedies without much medication.
If you have diabetes, the key is to lose weight and maintain healthy glucose level. With proper exercise, appetite-controlling supplements, diet, etc., you may be able to keep your diabetes in check without medication.
8 natural remedies to help you reverse diabetes
Vitamin C
If you have chronic diabetes, then your diet is incomplete without Vitamin C-rich foods. To begin with, consume at least 600mg of vitamin C every day with foods like oranges, lemons, strawberries, tomatoes etc. This antioxidant not only keeps your skin healthy but also works proactively to improve your blood sugar levels.
Cinnamon
The bioactive compound present in cinnamon can help fight and reverse diabetes. How? Cinnamon may help lower your blood sugar by increasing insulin sensitivity, making it more efficient at transporting glucose to the cells. Moreover, cinnamon can also help keep sudden blood sugar spikes in check after meals. Just mix some grounded cinnamon with warm water every day and have it.
Aloe vera
Now don’t be repulsed thinking about the bitter taste of aloe vera! From constipation to high blood pressure, to type 2 diabetes, aloe vera can be used for several health issues. The sheer number of diseases and issues it can cure is astonishing. As it is abundant in anti-inflammatory properties, it can help lower your blood sugar level substantially.
However, if you are already taking medications to lower your glucose level, it is best to avoid consuming aloe vera altogether.
Zinc
If someone has diabetes, chances are they have a zinc deficiency. Research has shown that including the correct amount of zinc supplements can actually help you reduce blood sugar and A1C, provide antioxidants to the body, and even treat certain complications related to diabetes.
Fenugreek
Commonly used as a spice, fenugreek is also known for its medicinal benefits. It can help keep your diabetes in check, control cholesterol, improve absorption of glucose, and facilitate the release of insulin more effectively. You can consume soaked fenugreek with water on an empty stomach every morning to help reduce your glucose levels.
Fiber
If you are trying to lose weight, then you must’ve been advised to add more fiber-rich foods to your diet. While yes, it helps you lose and maintain your weight, it is also an excellent component to keep your blood sugar level steady. Foods like apples, lentils, raspberries, peas, oatmeal, etc. are rich in fiber. Thus, when added to your diet, it can help reverse diabetes effectively.
Chromium
Chromium is a mineral that plays a key role in maintaining the blood glucose levels in your body. It facilitates the efficient transportation of glucose into the cells so that sugar levels become more stable. Not just that, chromium also helps increase the metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats in your body for overall health.
Apple cider vinegar
The acetic acid present in apple cider vinegar is known for its multiple health benefits. Organic and unfiltered apple cider vinegar is your best choice as it helps control blood sugar levels. If you have type 2 diabetes, it can help your body use the insulin more effectively and prevent blood sugar spikes post meals. Other than that, it also works to increase insulin sensitivity.
You can take 1-2 spoons of apple cider vinegar with meals to balance the effects of a carbs-rich meal and regulate your glucose level.
Final thoughts
When it comes to diabetes, although there’s no magic cure, adding these natural remedies and supplements to your routine can help you manage your glucose level. Moreover, many of these foods can support your weight loss regime, which is an important aspect of controlling diabetes. At the same time, you must consult your doctor before adding anything new to your diet for better health.