Archive for the ‘Diabetes’ Category

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Blood Sugar Levels and Do Supplements and Herbs Work to Help Lower Them?

Comments: 0December 3rd, 2011 by admin



Food supplements and herbal preparations fill the shelves of drugstores and are sold indiscriminately at times on the web. The billion dollar question is, are they really effective in lowering blood sugar levels?

Scientific research on their effectiveness show different results. People who use them swear by them, while some think it is just a waste of precious money. Judging from experience, they may be effective even if not given to much testing. Actually there are a lot of issues involved when you say you are using a herbal preparation or a food supplement. Now, if only they would really test them so we would all know the truth, bitter or sweet!

Really, it isn’t difficult to judge. If health care professionals and nutritionists advise a fiber rich diet consisting of vegetables, cereals and whole wheat grains to control blood sugar levels, why is a concentrated vegetable or plant in capsule form not acceptable? Some food supplements are actually concentrated, fiber rich vegetable essences, that when you eat the same amount in vegetable form, would weigh a ton! In the first place they were concentrated to provide an optimum amount of fiber that assists in absorbing that noxious glucose or sugar in your stomach and expel it easier than you might imagine.

On the other hand, there are also other herbal preparations that are claimed to lower blood sugar levels. These herbs are not necessarily needed in daily preparation of food so that it would be better to concentrate and encapsulate them:

bitter melon cinnamon Gymnema sylvestre and fenugreek
are the most popular and mostly used herbal remedies that work in lowering blood sugar levels.

the B vitamin biotin, vitamin C, trace minerals zinc and chromium and the anti-oxidant alpha lipoic acid may also be helpful.
A lot of commercial preparations may contain one or two of these ingredients and sell a lot.

Here are some tips in utilizing these food and herbal supplements:

1. Yes, you can take a supplement especially if you hate clearing up all those vegetables on your plate. Supplements that have fiber in them such as bitter melon, cinnamon, fenugreek, and gymnema have no known dangerous side effects. They can help in some ways.

2. Do not stop taking your anti-diabetic drug. This is very important. Food supplements or herbal preparations work in tandem just like diet and exercise do when taken with the right anti-diabetic medication.

3. Be sure to order the genuine ones. Surf the web, ask your friends what they take, and read labels.

4. It doesn’t mean though that when you take herbal preparations you can eat anything. You still have to stick with your diabetic food plan.

5. It shouldn’t mean going back to your days as a couch potato.

So there you are. Enjoy your healthy lifestyle. Take some food supplement as well as your anti-diabetic medication and watch you blood sugar levels fall.

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No More Crashes – Balancing Blood Sugar Naturally

Comments: 0October 19th, 2011 by admin



We’ve all heard the expression, “sugar high,” but for those with diabetes, the words take on new meaning. If your body is resistant to insulin (the substance that manages blood sugar levels) it can no longer produce an adequate insulin supply and this “sugar high” can have serious consequences.

Because I see many diabetic patients I have spent many hours researching the affects of high blood sugar levels. The valuable information provided below might be very help for you or someone you know who should consider controlling blood sugars with more natural options.

Insulin: The Key to Blood Sugar Control

When we eat, the sugar in processed foods, sweets and refined carbohydrates is converted to glucose, a form of blood sugar. This stimulates rapid insulin production, which causes blood sugar levels to plummet. In turn, the adrenal glands send a message to the liver to release its stored supply of glucose. Thus, the bloodstream is again flooded with sugar, and the cycle continues.

In people with diabetes, the cells become resistant to insulin, making it difficult to balance blood sugar. Sometimes insulin production is halted and must be obtained from an outside source.

The goal of treatment for diabetes is to supply the correct amount of insulin that will keep blood sugar levels in balance. If you have diabetes, you are certainly working in concert with your doctor on a course of treatment. However, there are many natural options for balancing blood sugar that you can explore with your doctor’s guidance. In the course of my research, I have evaluated studies suggesting the benefits of these natural remedies.

Finding a Balance

Here is a list of natural substances showing great promise for balancing blood sugar in people with diabetes. Talk to your doctor about exploring these alternative treatments.

1) Alpha-lipoic acid - Studies show this antioxidant speedily flushes glucose from the bloodstream to help prevent kidney damage. It has also been used effectively to ease symptoms of nerve damage in diabetes patients, such as burning, itching, tingling and numbness. As an antioxidant, it fights free radical damage to the cells, and may be taken in supplement form.

2) Chromium – This trace mineral shows great promise in diabetes treatment. A February 2008 study in the journal, Diabetes Technology and Therapeutics, showed that it can help the body metabolize glucose at a steady rate, improving blood sugar control. It is most effective, say the study authors, when paired with biotin, the B vitamin.

3) Fenugreek - This herb appears to slow carbohydrate absorption and glucose transport in the body. It also increases the number of insulin receptors in red blood cells-an excellent benefit if you suffer from insulin resistance.

4) Cinnamon - This spice has been used medicinally for over 4,000 years. A 2008 study published in the Proceedings of the Nutrition Society showed that it can improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control. It is important to use a water-based cinnamon extract for maximum effect, as opposed to powdered cooking cinnamon.

5) Vanadium - According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, a recent study showed that this compound, found in plants and animals, may regulate blood glucose levels and increase insulin sensitivity, so that diabetes patients may potentially decrease their insulin dosage.

I hope this information has introduced you to the possibility of managing your blood sugar levels in a more natural way. New studies of these and other natural remedies are being undertaken to improve diabetes care and make patients less reliant on harsh treatments. With the help of your doctor, you will be able to find a plan that works for you and your personal health needs.

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Honey and Cinnamon – Good For You

Comments: 0October 13th, 2011 by admin



It is found that a mixture of honey and cinnamon cures many sicknesses and disease.

Honey is manufactured and produced in many countries of the world.

In Ancient Rome, cinnamon was useful in the treatment of inflammation, various poisonous bites, and menstrual disorders. It was very helpful in treating the symptoms of the common cold or flu. Cinnamon was also claimed to be an exceptional cough medicine.

Honey is also a food that will not spoil.

Many uses for honey and cinnamon are:

GOOD FOR YOUR BLOOD SUGAR:

Some of the natural compounds in cinnamon have the ability to mimic insulin, helping glucose get into cells, where it can be used for energy, and significantly lowering blood sugar in the process. Cinnamon can also help your blood from clotting.

CHOLESTEROL:

Take a couple of tablespoons of honey and 2-3 teaspoons of cinnamon.

BLADDER INFECTIONS:

Take two tablespoons of cinnamon powder and 1-2 teaspoons
of honey in a glass of water at room temperature.

CANCER:

Recent research Australia has revealed that advanced cancer of the stomach and bones have been cured. Patients suffering from these kinds of cancer should daily take one tablespoon of honey with one teaspoon of
cinnamon powder for one month 3 times a day.

IMMUNE SYSTEM:

A daily use of honey and cinnamon powder strengthens the immune
system and protects the body. Constant use of honey strengthens the white blood corpuscles to fight bacteria and viral diseases. Take 1-2 tablespoon of honey to 1 teaspoon of cinnamon.

FOR WEIGHT LOSS:

Drink honey and cinnamon powder boiled in a cup water first thing in the morning, take it on an empty stomach. If taken regularly it can reduce weight. Also drinking of this mixture regularly does not allow the fat to accumulate in the body.

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Cinnamon and Blood Sugar Levels – How it Can Help You Lose Weight

Comments: 0September 20th, 2011 by admin



Cinnamomum zeylanicum
Fam: Lauracae

Cinnamon is a thermogenic herb which means it is warming to the body. This helps people who constantly have cold feet and hands, especially in winter with a raw food diet and juice diet and just in general warming in winter.

Cinnamon helps the body to stabilize blood sugar levels. If the levels are too high then insulin is produced by the body to lower the blood sugar levels. When there is too much insulin or chronically high levels of insulin produced the blood sugars are then converted to fat and stored in unwanted places. Now that they are converted to fat and stored, the blood sugar levels are low.

This low in blood sugar can play havoc on your body’s ability to produce energy and can cause fatigue and decreased energy. Generally you then feel the need to eat more to give yourself more energy. It is this yo-yo pattern that can put on the pounds and affects your energy and fatigue levels.

Research has not defined yet whether cinnamon either helps to improve the function of insulin or helps the blood sugars to be absorbed. It does slow the emptying of the stomach. But either way when your blood sugars are stable and the right amount of insulin is produced, your body will use the sugars as an energy source rather than just convert it and store it as fat.

Arthritis sufferers can find relief from mixing honey and cinnamon together either in a cup of hot water to drink or make a paste and massage it into the arthritis affected area.

Honey and cinnamon together has a list of diseases and ailments it is helpful for. Cinnamon and honey especially non-heated honey and Manuka honey have antibacterial properties. The common cold, gas build up and stomach ache, stomach ulcers, bladder infections, heart disease, pimples, skin infections and Menopause are just some of the problems that can be helped by Cinnamon and Honey.

Cinnamon can also be taken as a tablet. Although by adding a ¼ teaspoon too any of your meals that you already have, will enhance the flavour and be great for your body too.

Favourite cinnamon recipes

- Cubed mango, 1 passion fruit and cinnamon – combine together and eat

- Peanut or Almond butter on celery stick and cinnamon sprinkled on top

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Foods You Can Eat to Lower Blood Sugar Levels

Comments: 0August 31st, 2011 by admin



Many foods aid in lessening blood sugar levels. Some of the best foods to eat are fresh fruits such as apples, banana, cherries, mango, raisins, grapes, berries, pears, lemons, peaches, pineapple, pears and oranges.

Fresh fruits are rich with antioxidants and fiber which are excellent for lowering blood sugar levels.

Fresh vegetables are also ideal for controlling blood sugar levels. Some of the best vegetables to eat are sweet potatoes because of their rich vitamin content and fiber. They are also a powerful antioxidant.

Other vegetables to eat are onions, garlic, avocados, zucchini, peas, leafy green vegetables such as spinach and collard greens, lettuce, peppers, carrots, green beans, tomatoes and cabbage.

Proteins such skinless chicken or turkey and fish are also great foods that lower blood sugar levels. Low-fat dairy products such as cheeses and milk are also beneficial.

Carbohydrates such as beans, whole grains, oatmeal, barley and granola are also good for lowering blood sugar levels

Nuts also help to lower blood sugar some of the healthier nuts are almonds, cashews, pecans, walnuts, peanuts, Brazil and Macadamia Nuts.

Herbs and spices are also good for reducing your blood sugar levels. Cinnamon is among the best.

Another way to get those sugar levels down is to drink at least eight glasses of water every day which helps to flush out toxins which harm the body.

Exercise is also key to staying healthy. Walking is among the best exercises.

Easting the proper foods aids in lowering blood sugar levels and helps people live healthier and longer lives.

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Which Herbs Will Help Control Your High Blood Sugar Levels?

Comments: 0August 20th, 2011 by admin



Herbal medicine for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, plus a healthy eating plan and daily physical activity, can help you to keep your blood sugar levels under control. Herbs have been used as part of traditional medicine by the vast majority of people on earth for thousands of years. Herbs can do more than just reduce your blood sugar levels, they are also capable of reducing the damaging affects of type 2 diabetes itself.

These are not the only solution that will help you to say goodbye to type 2 diabetes, but why not consider them as a supplement to a healthy eating plan and exercising? Certainly, before you start using some of these herbs, you should consult with your health care provider for direction as to which ones will suit your specific situation.

Natural Herbs Commonly Used by Type 2 Diabetics:

Cinnamon: Cinnamon is one of the best “fighters” against high blood sugar levels and is also highly researched by modern science. Cinnamon has been shown to reduce fasting blood sugars by up to 29 per cent and has a measurable impact on making insulin more effective in your body.

Cinnamon contains no calories, makes insulin more effective and helps food to taste good… why not use it liberally?

Bitter Melon: Bitter melon is a cucumber-like plant that grows in Asia, Africa and South America. From a scientific investigation it has been shown to have the ability to lower blood sugar levels. 15 grams of an extract from bitter melon produced a 54% drop in after meal blood sugar levels… so it should be taken with caution in order to avoid hypoglycemia.

Gymnema Sylvestra: Gymnema sylvestra is a plant native to tropical regions of India and has been used extensively to treat both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. This herb works in several areas to improve diabetes. It has been shown to slow absorption of sugar in the gastrointestinal tract and to also have revitalizing effects on the pancreas. Gymnema sylvestra is one of the most powerful herbs for improving blood sugar control… so you will need to closely monitor your blood sugar levels and discuss what you are doing with your health care provider.

Ginseng: Ginseng is one of the world’s oldest herbs… it is almost a “cure it all”. It works on so many different aspects of the bodily processes. If a person has high blood pressure, then ginseng will often help lower it. If the blood pressure is too low, ginseng will often help raise it to a normal level. It appears to have the ability to correct the body’s processes whichever way they need to go.

Studies on type 1 and type 2 diabetics have shown improvement in both their blood sugar level and their HbA1c percentage.

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Cinnamon For Diabetes, Cholesterol And Blood Sugar Control – Does It Really Work?

Comments: 0July 17th, 2011 by admin



Cinnamon for diabetes is one of the hottest topics in natural products today. The problem is, there are a lot of people who are otherwise experts on diabetes but who don’t know much about herbs putting out a lot of misinformation about it.

My own claim to expertise on the subject is, other than having been involved in designing a clinical trial to test the efficacy of cinnamon for diabetes and having written a few books on herbal medicine, I’m also a former formulator of some of the kinds of products you find on store shelves.

The good news about cinnamon for diabetes is, it sometimes actually works. The bad news about cinnamon for diabetes is, it doesn’t always work for diabetes, and there’s more than one kind of cinnamon.

The cinnamon that has been documented in published clinical research is Cinnamomum cassia. Despite what some “experts” say, this isn’t the kind of cinnamon you sprinkle on your oatmeal or you get with cinnamon rolls, at least if you’re getting the good stuff. That other kind of cinnamon is Cinnamomum zeylanicum. is dark brown, whereas the milder Cinnamomum zeylanicum is more of a tan.

Cinnamomum cassia is a slightly bitter, not quite as aromatic variety of cinnamon used in South Asian cuisine. It’s not the kind used in quality baked goods. It’s the kind used in curry.

Cinnamomum cassia is a centuries-old Ayurvedic and Udani (Pakistani) remedy. And it’s the herb that was used in the now-famous study conducted in Pakistan and monitored in the US.

This study of the use of 1, 3, or 6 grams (1 gram = 1,000 mg) of cinnamon every day for 40 days found that on average in a group of diabetics who did not have any other treatment:

Fasting glucose was lowered 18 to 29 per cent. For most diabetics, this would be something in the range of 30-50 mg/dl, or 1-2.5 mM. LDL, or “bad,” cholesterol was lowered 7 to 27 per cent. Total cholesterol was lowered 12 to 26 per cent without any loss of the protective HDL cholesterol. Fasting triglycerides were lowerd 23 to 30 per cent.

What’s even better was, the benefits continued even after the clinical trial participants quit taking cinnamon. And more was not necessarily better. The optimum dose was 3,000 mg a day, not 6,000 mg.

So what’s the catch?

The people who benefited most from taking cinnamon in this study (and in several others) were people who had type 2 diabetes and who didn’t have access to any other medication. They weren’t in severe distress from high blood sugars, but they probably did have sugars running 220 mg/dl (10+ mM). Cinnamon got sugars down to 140 mg/dl (7 mM) or so.

Cinnamon–and remember, it has to be the right kind of cinnamon–helps a whole lot of if you’re just diagnosed and struggling to find some way to get your sugars down. No doctor is going to tell you it’s enough, but the fact is, it can help.

If your goal is to get your morning blood sugar from 90 mg/dl to 85, cinnamon won’t help you all that much.

What about the other kind of cinnamon? Well, basically, it’s tasty. And there’s nothing wrong with that. Just be sure the product you take for diabetes is labeled Cinnamomum cassia. It doesn’t have to be an expensive extract. The cheaper capsules of pure cinnamon work just as well.

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Fat Burning Foods – Patience is a Virtue!

Comments: 0July 9th, 2011 by admin

Are you self-conscious about your body? Do you want to burn up your extra fats and have the body you’ve been dreaming of? Try the magic of these fat burning foods.

Fat burning foods – the name itself already gives its meaning. However, you need to know some of the key terms related to nutrition in order to completely comprehend this topic. You can categorize these foods into two: the thermal effect of the foods and the boosting effect in your metabolism.

Chili peppers such as the Capsaicin in hot peppers, Cayenne pepper, Habanero, Scotch bonnet and even Jalapeno are some of the most common foods that have thermal effect in your body. But, never underestimate the effect of garlic; it is also very potent as thermal food. These spices aid in decreasing the cholesterol level and it can also help in controlling early hypertension (specifically, the garlic).

These seasonings/spices help in burning fats through its thermal effect. You may not even notice the change in your size but they do work in burning fats. Moreover, they do not only effect thermodynamic burn and control hypertension and cholesterol levels; but they are also great aids in speeding up your metabolism.

Foods that can help boost your metabolism are easy to find. Cinnamon, Apples & berries, other Citrus fruits, and foods that are rich in fiber are among them. Each of them has its own specific effect in our bodies.

• Cinnamon metabolizes sugar twenty (20) times faster and lowers down the glucose levels in our blood.

• Apples and berries contain pectin. They inhibit the fat absorption into the body and bind with water to flush fats out of the cells.

• Citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C, which dilutes fat; thus, it can be easily excreted.

• Foods rich in fiber aids in the peristaltic movement of our gastrointestinal tract. Hence, the bolus or the chewed food can easily be digested in our small intestine and the stomach only absorbs the needed nutrients our body needs. The body can now easily excrete and eliminate the toxic substances.

If your plan is only restricted on fat burning foods, however, it might not be that effective. Regular exercise such as alternating aerobics and cardio-exercises is also one of the best ways to have a fit and healthy body. Exercise can help you lose fats and can even prevent cardiovascular diseases.

Keep in mind that it could take some time before you can see the results. Having patience and being determined are keys to reach your goal. The effect sometimes varies from person to person. Don’t let your resolve easily shatter into pieces. Keep going and stick to eating the right fat burning foods. In the end, you can have the body you have always been dreaming of. Remember that “Patience is a virtue.”

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Natural Cure For Diabetes – The Best Way For Curing Diabetes

Comments: 0June 25th, 2011 by admin



Natural cure for diabetes can be your first choice when you are convinced that it works well. You will be convinced when you yourself experience the wonderful results of curing diabetes. The secret of Diabetes Natural Cure lies in the choice of proper diet. Though the genetic factors usually cause diabetes, there are other triggers effecting elevated blood sugar and related problems in later life. The unquestionable best way for curing diabetes naturally is choosing of right diet. It is not exaggerating that every diet has a categorical significance in helping the diabetic to control blood sugar and overweight. As overweight can cause blood sugar it is indispensable to control the same with balanced diet choices.

It is recommended that a diabetic should completely keep off the junk foods, and choose leaner and natural diets. One can choose in addition three more natural cures for diabetes.

Magnesium for curing diabetes:

It has been established that the intake of good amount of magnesium can reduce the susceptibility to diabetes. Researchers claim that magnesium is a good source of natural cure for diabetes. It can relax muscles and keep control over the trigger for stroke as well as heart disease. When the muscles are relaxed the muscle spasm or muscle contraction is reduced. Magnesium is found rich in whole grain foods, avocados, dark green and leafy vegetables, mashed beans, mashed potatoes, and soy milk.

Cinnamon for curing diabetes:

Cinnamon is used as spice to give flavor for foods. It has been proved that cinnamon can reduce blood sugar to certain percentage by 20 to 30. In addition, diabetes risk factors of TGL and LDL counts are minimized by 25% to 30% in people with type 2 diabetes. Cinnamon contains a cellular extract which enhances the insulin sensitivity. When there is a poor secretion of insulin, problems are experienced. Consuming a small amount of cinnamon twice daily can help control blood glucose. Instead of taking ground cinnamon directly, it can also be added to tea, orange juice, meats and salads.

Glucotor 2 for diabetes:

Gkucotor 2 gives a natural formula specifically prepared exclusively to benefit the diabetics. Glucotor 1 is the basic formula containing spiky pear cactus, bitter melon, gymnema sylvestre, and fenugreek which are helping to control blood sugar. Glucotor 2 as an advanced formula includes additionally magnesium and Cinnulin PF extracts. It is more powerful than the former. While Glucotor 1 fights elevated blood sugar Glucotor 2 enhances the actions of the components.

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Diabetes and Cinnamon

Comments: 0May 16th, 2011 by admin



The benefits of cinnamon have long been in evidence, and it was the first spice mentioned in the Old Testament. It has been widely used as an herbal remedy for centuries. The cinnamon spice itself comes from the bark of the cinnamon tree, which is native to Asia. It is a very popular addition to foods, particularly in Asia and the Middle East. It is a popular flavoring in such desserts as apple pie and doughnuts, and can be used to spice up savory dishes such as mince.

The Benefits of Cinnamon
Traditional Chinese medicine has used cinnamon for centuries to aid digestive problems, colds, and sickness. It is also believed to be helpful for those suffering from bad circulation. More recently, it is being used to aid diabetes sufferers.

Diabetes and Cinnamon
Ayurveda remedies for diabetes include the use of cinnamon to reduce blood sugar. It can help sugar to metabolize better, meaning it is helping to control the levels of blood sugar. Cinnamon is also believed to make fat cells within the body respond better to insulin. Again, this helps to regulate blood glucose levels. It is believed that only a small amount of cinnamon added to food per meal is enough to make a difference, even as little as one-eighth of a teaspoon. Cinnamon added to mince dishes can enhance the flavor slightly, making a very tasty meal. Cinnamon is also a popular addition in drinks such as coffee, so you can have your daily intake without too much effort.

Cinnamon and Insulin Resistance
Any improvement of insulin resistance can decrease the risk of heart disease and help weight control. It is said that adding cinnamon to the diet can do both of those things. One way of getting the daily recommended amount of cinnamon is to mix one-fourth teaspoon with one-half teaspoon of honey in some warm water, allow the cinnamon to settle, then drink it, once first thing in the morning on an empty stomach and once last thing before bedtime. Cinnamon can also be beneficial to women with polycystic ovary syndrome, as most of the sufferers also have some form of insulin resistance.

Other Uses of Cinnamon
As well as flavoring foods and being beneficial to diabetes sufferers, cinnamon has been known to help in other health areas, such as aid the digestive system, ward off common colds and even help people who suffer from toothache. It is also believed to be beneficial as an insect repellent.

Please be aware that before using cinnamon in large quantities for diabetes or insulin resistance, especially if you are already taking prescribed medications, then a medical practitioner should first be consulted. Cinnamon mimics the effect of insulin in the body and so blood glucose levels may drop too low. In small, infrequent doses for flavoring foods and drinks, then it should offer nothing more than a positive effect on the body, but care must be taken when used in larger and more frequent doses and a medical professional should be consulted before using cinnamon in place of any prescribed diabetes medications.

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