How to Use Holistic Medicine to Treat Diabetes

Diabetes is a condition in which the body's inability to convert food into energy and properly regulate blood glucose causes a variety of symptoms and problems. Some decide to fight diabetes with holistic medicine because the latter treats the patient's mind, body and soul, not just a condition. Follow these steps to learn how you can.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Reference book on holistic medicine
• Computer with Internet access
• Magnesium supplements
• Access to an acupuncturist or Tu Nai practitioner

Treat Your Diabetes Through a Holistic Diet

1. Use holistic medicine to treat your diabetes in conjunction with "conventional" Western medicine. Holistic treatments can be supportive but are generally not intended to be used to the exclusion of other treatments.

2. Learn more about the specific types of herbal and vitamin supplements used to treat Diabetes Type 1 and Diabetes Type 2. Visit dLife.com for a good discussion of supplements (see Resources below).

3. Try a supplement like magnesium, which has been linked to improving glucose control.

4. Help control blood glucose levels by consuming plant food or vegetables that are rich in fiber. Here are a few suggestions: broccoli, peas, sage, spinach and okra.

5. Avoid sweets and fruits. These foods can affect the sugar levels in your body dramatically and can be dangerous for diabetics.

6. Eat foods that are in season. A good variety of seasonal foods can help balance the body within the current environment.

7. Consume smaller meals, but eat more often. This will encourage the sugar levels in your blood to remain at a more constant level.

8. Set regular times to eat every day. Having consistency in your meals will help your body maintain a steady level of energy, which helps you avoid a noticeable drop in glucose levels.

Use Energy Balancing Practices

1. Read books about holistic practices and treatments to get a better understanding of holistic medicine. Try "The American Holistic Medical Association Guide to Holistic Health: Healing Therapies for Optimal Wellness" (see Resources below).

2. Begin the practice of yoga or tai chi. These practices stress the connection between body, mind and soul to help people find balance and unity with their environments. Learn more about tai chi at MayoClinic.com (see Resources below).

3. Use acupuncture to relieve the pain of neuropathy, or the damage to nerves caused by diabetes.

4. Opt for a Tui Na treatment as an alternative to acupuncture. Tui Na also works on pressure points like acupuncture but without needles. Learn more at the "BalanceFlow" Web site (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• In most cases, holistic treatment for diabetes is inexpensive.

• If you're experiencing dizziness, confusion, hyperactive behavior or tremors and seizures, seek immediate medical help. These are symptoms of a severe insulin reaction.

• Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. If you decide to try holistic medicine, keep your doctor informed about the technique you undertake. In some cases, herbal supplements can cause negative reactions when mixed with prescription drugs. Avoid an unnecessary trip to the emergency room.

• Consult MayoClinic.com to learn how educate yourself about alternative medicine claims (see Resources below). Learn how to assess those claims before you make your treatment decision.