Diabetes - Complementary and Alternative Therapies

Connotations;

Complimentary - used with conventional therapy.
Alternative - used instead of conventional medicine.

Magnesium

The use of magnesium in treating diabetes has been studied for years and, as yet, is still not fully understood. Results so far show that a deficiency in magnesium could worsen blood glucose control in type 2 diabetes. Scientists believe that a deficiency in magnesium interrupts insulin secretion in the pancreas and increases insulin resistance in the body's tissues. Results indicate that a deficiency in magnesium could contribute to certain diabetes complications. Recent studies show that people who have a high intake of magnesium through their diets have a decreased risk of type 2 diabetes. Sources of magnesium include whole grains, nuts and green leafy vegetables.

Ginseng

Studies indicate glucose lowering affects in fasting and after meal blood glucose levels as well as in A1C levels( average blood glucose levels over a three month period). However, longer term studies are needed before ginseng can be recommended. It also must be noted that the amount of glucose lowering compound in ginseng varies greatly among plants.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture has been shown to give relief to people suffering neuropathy, a painful nerve damage of diabetes. It is thought that acupuncture triggers the release of the body's natural pain killers when needles are inserted into designated points in the skin.

Biofeedback

Using guided imagery a person thinks of peaceful mental images, such as a stream or gentle waves on a beach, and may also include the images of controlling or curing a chronic disease, such as diabetes. Biofeedback helps a person become more aware of and learn to deal with pain through relaxation and stress reduction techniques.

Vanadium

Vanadium is a compound found in plants and animals in very tiny amounts. Early research has shown that vanadium can normalize blood glucose levels in animals with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Studies have shown that diabetics who were given vanadium developed a modest increase in insulin sensitivity and were able to decrease their insulin requirements. Research is currently being carried out to determine exactly how vanadium works in the body, discover if there are any dangerous side effects and to ultimately find a safe working dosage.

It is very important for patients who wish to try alternative or complimentary therapies to first discuss it with their health care providers, so they know what they are doing. Although some therapies can be beneficial others can be ineffective or even dangerous. Always seek professional advice first.