Type 2 diabetes (also called diabetes mellitus) results from the perfect storm of not enough movement, too much of the wrong foods, emotional stress, lack of sleep, toxins, and genetics. More often than not, patients with type 2 diabetes look towards natural medicine in addition to their conventional medicine for help in treating their disease.
Natural medicines and using food as medicine is a wonderful way to complement your diabetes treatment. However, if added without the correct knowledge or guidance, mixing herbs, supplements and medicines can lead to a drop in blood sugar called hypoglycemia.
While I do not recommend starting any new treatments without consulting your health care provider, below find a list of my top natural remedies for type 2 diabetes.
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
The primary compound in ACV is acetic acid and is believed to be responsible for many of its health benefits. There are many evidence-based approaches to using ACV. Taking 2 tablespoons before bedtime can reduce your morning fasting sugar levels. Even better, 1-2 tablespoons of ACV taken with meals can decrease the glycemic load of a carbohydrate rich meal. I generally tell patients to either consume ACV alone, prior to a meal or mix it into salad dressings or teas.
2. Fiber and Barley
Eating fiber decreases blood sugar and insulin concentrations. The recommended amount of fiber is around 30 grams per day. Most Americans get around 6-8 grams, which is not nearly enough. While you can take fiber supplements like Metamucil (psylium husk), the best way to reach your goal is to eat your veggies!
Barley is a high-fiber, high-protein grain which has lots of data to support its role in helping improve blood sugar, insulin, cholesterol and general inflammation. Barley does not requiring soaking and usually can cook in less than 15 minutes on the stove top with just some water and salt.
3. Chromium
Mainly found in brewer’s yeast, deficiency in chromium impairs the metabolism of glucose. Evidence supports chromium for lower blood sugar and A1c levels. Be careful if you have kidney disease with this supplement.
