Alternative Approaches to the Treatment of Diabetes
Alternative Approaches to the Treatment of Diabetes Diabetes is a general term for a disease caused by defective carbohydrate metabolism and characterized by abnormally large amounts of sugar in the blood and urine. Diabetes is usually classified into two types. Type I or insulin-dependent diabetes, formerly called juvenile-onset, usually occurs in children and young adults; and, Type II, or non-insulin dependent diabetes (formerly called adult-onset diabetes) is found in persons over 40 years old and progresses slowly (Funk and Wagnalls 183). Diabetes is considered a group of disorders with multiple causes, rather than a single disorder. The human pancreas secretes a hormone called insulin that promotes the entry of sugar glucose into all tissues of the body, providing energy for bodily activities. In a person with diabetes, however, the entry of glucose is impaired, either as a result of deficiency in the amount of insulin produced or of a blocking of the action of the insulin. Consequently, sugar builds up in the blood and is discharged in the urine. In a Type I diabetic, the problem is almost always a severe or total reduction in insulin production. In Type II diabetes, the pancreas often makes a considerable
Despite current trends to self-treat bodily malfunctions with diet, vitamins, exercise, and relaxation, strong cautions are warranted in relation to diabetes. Acupuncture has also been found to boost the immune system and minimize circulatory system complications. Most insulin in use today is processed synthetically, although some is still derived from animal hormone. These herbs may also prevent hemorrhages in the eyes if diabetic retinopathy has developed. A doctor specializing in functional medicine or nutritional medicine is a good source for finding a combination approach to healthy living. Treatment for both forms of diabetes requires adjustment of insulin levels in the body and strict management of diet and exercise. It should be noted that the use of acupuncture to assist in the treatment of diabetes, or any other disease, should only be through a consultation with a licensed practitioner (MEDICAL ADVISOR 320). Insulin comes in three types: short acting, taking effect in 30 to 40 minutes and lasting 6 hours, intermediate acting, taking effect in 3 to 4 hours and lasting up to 24 hours, and long acting, taking effect in 6 to 8 hours and lasting up to 30 hours. Foods that are rich in soluble fiber slow the absorption of food into the blood - thus helping to prevent sharp swings in blood sugar levels. One study showed that diabetics who had a powdered form of burdock after a starchy meal had a lowered incidence of hyperglycemia (Medical Advisor 321). First, no change in prescribed medication should be undertaken without a consultation with your doctor. Many develop slowed reflexes, loss of sensation, numbness and tingling in legs, impotence, and circulatory problems (Medical Advisor 319). Even stress reduction practices may help lower blood glucose levels(Funk and Wagnalls 184). Diet is the central control point for both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Herbal therapies for the treatment of illness have been around for thousands of years.
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