3 Unusual Foods to Help Control Diabetes

For the more than 38 million individuals dealing with type 2 diabetes, daily life involves meticulous management of their health. Monitoring blood sugar levels, adhering to daily medications, making dietary changes, and incorporating exercise all play pivotal roles in managing diabetes and staving off severe consequences. Despite these efforts, the pursuit of more effective and natural ways to manage diabetes persists. In recent years, three unconventional foods—a type of fungus, a spice, and a fruit—have emerged as potential allies in the realm of diabetes management and prevention.

Lion’s Mane Mushrooms

Lion’s mane mushrooms, with their distinctive appearance resembling a shaggy mane, have garnered attention for their myriad health benefits, including their potential to aid in diabetes management. Research indicates that these mushrooms can lower blood sugar levels and increase insulin serum in animal studies. Additionally, lion’s mane mushrooms combat systemic inflammation, a key factor in diabetes, and boost antioxidant levels, offering protection against oxidative stress known to exacerbate diabetes. Moreover, studies suggest that lion’s mane mushrooms may alleviate nerve pain in the hands and feet, a prevalent symptom of diabetes.

While numerous supplement companies offer lion’s mane mushroom products, it is essential to identify high-quality options. Incorporating these mushrooms into your diet by cooking with them can also provide health benefits.

Turmeric

Renowned for its vibrant color and anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric inhibits the production of various pro-inflammatory cytokines. This alone merits its inclusion in the list of foods that can aid in managing diabetes. Beyond its anti-inflammatory effects, turmeric may help prevent arterial thickening and stiffening, a common diabetic complication. Studies further suggest that even small doses of turmeric can lower blood sugar levels, control weight gain, and reduce cholesterol.

Introducing turmeric into your dishes can impart an earthy warmth along with its health benefits. It is important to note that turmeric has staining properties, and opting for well-formulated turmeric supplements can ensure optimal bioavailability of its beneficial compounds.

Pomegranate

While sweetness may seem like a concern for individuals with diabetes, certain fruits can counteract the disease’s effects by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. Pomegranates, a less conventional fruit choice, have gained recognition for their potential to assist individuals with diabetes in managing their condition. In addition to combating inflammation, pomegranates aid in blood sugar management. Consuming pomegranate juice or incorporating the fruit into meals can help stabilize fasting blood sugar levels, prevent post-meal spikes, and enhance insulin production.

Enjoy the benefits of pomegranate by consuming its juice or by indulging in its numerous delicious and nutritious seeds. Pomegranate extract is also available in supplement form for added convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is alternative medicine important

Alternative medicines are more popular than traditional ones because they’re usually cheaper and healthier. Patients have sometimes died after receiving these treatments. This could be due to allergic reactions or side effects. You may also find that alternative therapies are not as effective.

Alternate medicines can be dangerous, especially if you don’t know enough to choose the best ones. Vitamin supplements, for example, are not regulated like pharmaceuticals. It is easy to overdose on vitamins. Other remedies, however, can be toxic.

What is the difference between Naturopathic and Holistic Medicine?

The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine relies heavily on drugs and surgery to treat its patients. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. CAM should not be considered as a replacement for traditional treatment. Instead, CAM can help patients take control of their health by helping them choose the best option.

Naturopathy, on one hand, can be used to complement traditional medical practices. The whole person, mind and spirit are treated by naturopathy. There are many forms of naturopathy: Ayurveda and Traditional Native American Medicine as well as Functional Medicine.

It is important to note that some CAM modalities overlap with conventional medicine. For example, herbal remedies can be prescribed by doctors and naturopaths alike. However, naturopaths tend to emphasize lifestyle changes over prescription medications.

Naturopathy is sometimes called “complementary” since it complements traditional medicine and does not replace it. Naturopaths may prescribe medication when needed.

There are differences between naturopathic medicines and other CAM modalities.

Naturopaths don’t usually prescribe medication.
Naturopaths may work alongside the patient’s family doctor and may refer patients to specialists if needed.
Naturopathic doctors are licensed by the provincial licensing boards. CAM practitioners, however, are self-regulated.
Naturopathy focuses on prevention and wellness and offers education about diet, exercise, and nutrition.
Naturopaths stress the importance of lifestyle factors. This includes nutrition, exercise and stress management.
Naturopharmacists specialize on the treatment of certain conditions with botanicals or minerals.
Naturopodists can provide personalized care, based on the individual needs of each patient.
The College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario is responsible for licensing Naturopaths.
Naturopatrists can be licensed by the provincial regulatory agencies.
Naturopaticians have been registered with The Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
Naturotherapists are licensed by the College of Naturopaths of British Columbia.
The United States National Board of Medical Examiners has licensed Naturobiotic Therapists.
The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency licenses homeopaths.
The belief that all aspects should be considered in making health decisions is called “holistic”. Holistic doctors will look at all of these aspects rather than just one.

Where can you find more information on holistic medicine and other holistic therapies?

Holistic medicine focuses on the whole person instead of just one aspect of health care. Holistic medicine considers all aspects a patient’s lives, including their spiritual, emotional, and mental well-being.

Holistic medicine’s goal is to treat the whole person rather than just individual symptoms. Holistic medicine doesn’t focus on curing disease. It focuses on healing.

Holistic medicine encompasses preventive measures, nutrition, and treatment for chronic conditions such arthritis and diabetes.

There are many options for holistic medicine.

Acupuncture
Aromatherapy
Ayurveda
Chiropractic medicine
Homeopathy
Herbalism
Naturopathy
Nutrition
Osteopathic medicine
Vedic medicine
Yoga

Who uses alternative medicine and why?

Alternative medicine is available for many reasons.

They want to avoid the use of harmful drugs or surgery.
They believe natural remedies work better.
They prefer non-invasive treatments.
They want to spend less money.
Natural products are safer for them.
They want greater control over their own healthcare decisions.
They are ready to take charge of their health.
They want a healthier environment around them.
They want less stress in their lives.
They want greater freedom in choosing their doctors and their healthcare plans.
They want their children receive a better education.
They want healthy food for themselves and their family.
They seek safe, effective medicines.

What is the difference in holistic and traditional medicine?

Traditional medicine tends to treat symptoms while holistic medicine treats the entire person. Holistic medicine focuses on the whole person and not just one aspect of a patient’s health.

Traditional medicine treats certain organs, systems, or diseases (e.g. the brain), while holistic medicines consider all aspects and the entire body. It also examines the effects of lifestyle choices on overall wellbeing.

What is the distinction between holistic medicine, alternative medicine and holistic medicine?

Holistic medicine addresses the whole person, including mind, body and spirit. Holistic medicine examines every aspect of a person’s health. It also considers spiritual, physical, and environmental factors that may be overlooked by traditional medicine. Alternative medicine can be used to treat certain conditions like asthma, allergies, arthritis, or other medical issues.

What are the Alternative Medical Systems?

These five alternative medicine systems are Ayurveda (acupuncture), Ayurveda (homeopathy), energy healing, aromatherapy, and homeopathy.

Acupuncture involves inserting fine needles into specific points of the body to stimulate the flow (qi) of energy throughout the entire body.

Ayurvedic Medicine refers to an ancient system that balances three of the most important elements of health care: water, fire and air. It can be used to help with diet, exercise, herbs, massage, and meditation.

Homeopathic Medicine’s name derives from the Greek words homoios and pathos. Homeopaths believe every disease has natural causes. But not all symptoms. Homeopaths prescribe tiny amounts of substances to cause symptoms that are similar to those experienced by patients when they are ill.

Energy Healing is also known for Reiki, EFT Rolfing Therapeutic Touch, Rolfing and Rolfing. This therapy draws on the belief that we are each connected to a universal life force called Ki. This Ki flows freely through us and makes us feel good. Energy healers work with touch and intention to restore harmony and balance between our mental, spiritual, and physical selves.

Aromatherapy uses essential oils from plants to treat ailments. Aromatherapists believe that certain smells can affect mood and behavior. Lavender is the most popular essential oil used for aromatherapy.

Statistics

category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)
These studies found that 38.4% concluded positive or possibly positive effects for CAM (12.4%), 4.8% concluded no effect, 0.7% concluded harmful effects, and 56.6% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)

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How To

What are the four types of complementary and alternate medicine?

The main categories of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) are mind-body, natural products as well as manipulative therapies. Mind-body Medicine includes Tai Chi, Reiki (tai chi), yoga, massage therapy, homeopathy and aromatherapy. Natural products include herbs, vitamins, minerals, dietary supplements, and botanicals. Manipulative therapies can include physical manipulations such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, and osteopathic/chiropractic care. Energy healing involves techniques such as prayer and visualization.

CAM can be used to describe a range of alternative health practices, which are not part of the traditional Western medical model. There are many differences in the scientific support for these practices, including whether they involve drugs and surgery, as well as which conditions they treat. Some CAM doctors also provide diagnostic testing (e.g. Blood tests) and can prescribe medication. Others may do neither.

In addition to these four primary categories, there are many subcategories within each category. Mind-body medicine includes relaxation techniques, mindfulness training and guided imagery. It also includes self-hypnosis, meditation, qigong and Tai chi. Natural products include nutritional supplements, botanical remedies, homeopathic remedies and essential oils. Manual, movement, manipulation, electrotherapies and soft tissue mobilization are some of the manipulative therapies. There are many spiritual healing options, such as faith healing and prayer within energy healing.

Many CAM therapies treat symptoms, but not the cause. However, CAM may provide relief for some chronic diseases. When used appropriately, CAM could complement traditional treatment options.

There are many different reasons people use the CAM.

To improve their overall well-being.
To manage a specific condition.
To reduce pain or discomfort.
To prevent illness.
To promote wellness.
To address a person’s belief system.

Some people use CAM to have more control over their own health than traditional medicine. They might believe there are fewer side-effects. Some people choose CAM to not take prescription drugs. Some people prefer not to use pharmaceuticals. Others still seek out CAM, even though they’ve had bad experiences in conventional medicine.

Some people who use CAM feel that they need to be certain about their work before trying new things. Many CAM users want to know more about the safety of CAM. Others rely on friends and family for word of mouth.

Although CAM is often seen negatively in society, most users report positive feelings towards CAM. People who use CAM are happier and healthier than those who don’t. This is true regardless age, gender and race.

A majority of Americans have used some type of alternative or complementary medicine. Nearly 95% of Americans use some form of complementary and alternative medicine at least once in their lifetime. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health was able to estimate that around 40 million people visited CAM practitioners in 2010 alone.

The NCCIH estimates 10 percent of the U.S. populace uses chiropractors.

The American Medical Association reiterated its support for integrative medical care in 2013. It recognized that doctors must “integrate scientifically valid alternative and complementary medicine into clinical practices…to meet patients’ needs.”

The Institute of Medicine published a landmark 2007 report called “Relating Constraints” that concluded that there was no evidence to support the claim that any particular CAM intervention can prevent, treat, cure, or cure cancer.

CAM is still gaining popularity despite this conclusion. In 2008, the number of CAM practitioners increased by 8 percent compared to 2007.

A recent survey found that almost half the respondents said they used CAM as part their primary healthcare plan.

CAM therapies can include natural products, mind/body practices, manipulative methods, energy healing techniques, exercise, dietary supplementation, and other approaches.

Many CAM therapies are used primarily to relieve pain, but they also have many other benefits like relaxation, improved mood and better sleep.

Acupuncture is a treatment that can reduce chronic back pain, anxiety, depression and improve the immune system, promote weightloss, and improve menstrual symptoms.

Many CAM therapies are rooted in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine. They have been around for thousands of years.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), for instance, originated over 5,000 years ago. This practice has been in China since antiquity.

TCM, although it gained prominence in the late 1800s, is still an integral part of health care.

TCM treatment is now used by over 70% of American citizens.

Another popular CAM therapy is yoga. Yoga was developed in India circa 5000 B.C. and is now embraced worldwide.

Yoga has been gaining popularity with the general population because it provides many physical, mental, and spiritual benefits.

Yoga can help ease stress, enhance flexibility and increase strength while improving cardiovascular fitness and reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Even though there are limited scientific studies, yoga appears to have positive effects upon sleep33. This may make it useful for people suffering from insomnia.

Other CAM therapies, such as meditation, homeopathy, aromatherapy, are also becoming more mainstream.

Herbal medicine is one of the most popular types of CAM.

Herbal medicines may include herbs and spices, flowers, seeds or fruits, bark, leaves or roots, as well stems.

They are commonly used as safer alternatives to prescription drugs and are often preferred by consumers.

The U.S. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health estimates that about 90 million Americans use some form of complementary/alternative medicine.

According to American Cancer Society, 45% adults diagnosed with cancer reported that they used alternative medicine during treatment.

The National Institutes of Health estimate that 60% of patients suffering from cancer use CAM. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that 50% of all cancer survivors have reported using CAM.

According to a recent study, 51% cancer survivors have used at the very least one type of CAM.

However, only 8% of these individuals discussed this use with their physicians.

This gap in healthcare delivery is caused by a lack of communication between conventional doctors and CAM users.

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