Causes of Diabetes

The major causes of diabetes are:

• Family history
• Obesity
• Lack of exercise
• Chronic stress
• Certain medicines, such as corticosteroids
• Hormonal disorders such as hypothyroidism and Cushing syndrome
• High blood pressure
• Unhealthy diet

Symptoms of Diabetes

Common diabetes symptoms are:

• An increased hunger and thirst
• Weight loss
• A higher tendency to urinate
• Unclear vision
• Weakness that is persistent
• Decreased sexual drive (Men only)
• Erectile dysfunction (men only)
• Vaginal dryness (women only)
• UTI (women only)

Diagnosing Diabetes in Ayurveda

There are specific tests that are used to determine the blood glucose levels in the body. Some of them are:

• Fasting plasma glucose test
• A1C test
• Random plasma glucose test
• Glucose challenge test
• Oral glucose tolerance test

Ayurvedic Treatment for Diabetes

Ayurvedic treatment for diabetes makes use of Ayurvedic medicine for diabetes, lifestyle modifications, yoga, etc. to reduce glucose levels in the blood. There are Ayurvedic herbs that help increase the insulin sensitivity of type-4 glucose receptors in the body. This results in a reduction in the insulin resistance in the body. Additionally, some herbs also promote the secretion of insulin in the body.

Ayurvedic Medicine for Diabetes

Ayurvedic treatment for diabetes utilizes the power of Ayurvedic herbs to keep a tab on blood glucose levels. Some of the best Ayurvedic medicines for diabetes are:

• Gudmar (Gymnema sylvestre): Gudmar is one of the best Ayurvedic medicines for sugar. This herb keeps a check on sugar cravings. This contributes to the regulation of blood glucose levels in the body.
• Vijaysar (Pterocarpus marsupium): Vijaysar is used widely in the Ayurvedic treatment for diabetes. It helps regenerate pancreatic cells and also promotes the production of insulin in the body.
• Jamun (Syzygium cumini): Jamun is loaded with compounds that help in the regulation of glucose in the blood.

In addition to the herbs mentioned above, Ayurvedic treatment for diabetes also mentions ginseng, fenugreek, psyllium, cinnamon, aloe vera, bitter melon, bitter gourd (Karela), thistle, and turmeric as herbs that effectively control blood glucose levels. Neem and turmeric are also effective in boosting the body's insulin management system.

If you want a sustained drop in your blood sugar levels, you have to eat foods that do not cause a spike in your blood sugar. Completely avoid sugar-laden foods. Broccoli, seafood, pumpkin, nuts, okra, flaxseed, beans, fermented foods, chia seeds, kale, berries, avocados, oats, citrus, kefir, and eggs are beneficial in regulating blood sugar levels.

As a diabetic, you would want to avoid a sharp spike in your glucose levels. Eating 5-6 small meals a day is recommended to diabetes patients instead of 3 big meals. Additionally, spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander, and cardamom have anti-inflammatory properties, and they avoid inflammation in the body tissues. Avoid smoking and drinking, as they aggravate the issues.

Ayurvedic treatment for diabetes makes active use of Yoga to keep a check on blood glucose levels. Asanas like Surya Namaskar, Seated Forward Bend, Reclining Bound Angle Pose, Supported Shoulder Stand, Upward-Facing Dog, Plough Pose, Bow Pose, Supine Spinal Twist, Child’s Pose, and Corpse Pose have been found effective in managing diabetes. You should, however, do asanas under the guidance of a certified tutor.

Why Choose Ayurveda for Diabetes?

Ayurvedic treatment for diabetes provides a natural way to counter the complexities associated with this disease. Ayurvedic management of diabetes focuses on using Ayurvedic herbs to manage blood sugar levels and vociferously advocates the inclusion of lifestyle changes for an effective diabetes treatment.

Frequently Asked Question(FAQs)