Diabetes

Author:
Dr. Veena (Ayurvedic Physician)

Diabetes:

Any of various abnormal conditions characterized by the secretion and excretion of excessive amounts of urine; especially Diabetes Mellitus.

Diabetes is of two types: Type-1 and Type-2.

Type-1 diabetes is also known as insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) and is invariably associated with profound insulin deficiency requiring replacement therapy.

Type-2 diabetes is known as non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM). In this case, the patient can retain the capacity to secrete insulin but exhibits impaired sensitivity to insulin (insulin resistance) and usually can be treated without insulin replacement therapy. Diabetes Mellitus is a clinical syndrome characterized by hyperglycemia caused by an absolute deficiency of insulin.

The incidences of both type-1 and type-2 diabetes are increasing. It is estimated that in the year 2000, 171 million people had diabetes, and it is expected to double by 2030. However, the prevalence of both types of Diabetes varies considerably around the world and is related to differences in genetic and environmental factors.

Diabetes Mellitus:

We can define it as a variable disorder of carbohydrate metabolism caused by a combination of hereditary and environmental factors. It is usually characterized by inadequate secretion or utilization of insulin, excessive urine production, excessive sugar in the blood and urine, excessive thirst and hunger, and loss of weight.

Incidence - Diabetes Mellitus:

It is more common in middle-aged and elderly individuals. Prevalence increases with age, affecting 10% of people over 65 years.

Causes:

Patients of NIDDM do secrete insulin although their serum insulin may be diminished, normal, or even increased. The cause is unknown, but several causative factors are there like a strong family history of Diabetes, obesity, physical inactivity, lifestyle, etc.

Genetic factors are also important in type-2 Diabetes.

Studies show that Diabetes Mellitus is associated with overeating, especially when combined with obesity and underactivity. The risk of developing Diabetes Mellitus increases tenfold in people with a body mass index > 30kg/m². Abnormality in the glucose receptor of β cells so that they respond at higher glucose concentrations. Reduced sensitivity of peripheral tissues to insulin.

Ref: Davidson’s Principles and Practice of Medicine

Symptoms: Excessive thirst, polyuria, fatigue, lethargy, debility, nocturia, blurring of vision, nausea, headache, irritability, difficulty in concentration, predilection for sweets, hunger, and anxiety.

Complications of Diabetes:

Impaired vision, renal failure, foot disease – ulceration.

Herbs useful to treat Diabetes:

Allium cepa (Onion extract): Reduces blood sugar during i.v. glucose tolerance test and adrenaline-induced hyperglycemia in man.
Gymnema sylvestre (Gudmar): Helps to regulate blood sugar levels.
Pterocarpus marsupium (Vijaysar): Open and semi-controlled clinical trials showed a significant lowering of blood sugar levels.
Ficus bengalensis (Vad): Moderate blood sugar-lowering effects.
Tinospora cordifolia (Guduchi): Helps in reducing blood sugar levels in animal studies.

Natural Home Remedies For Diabetes Mellitus:

Diabetic patients should take low-calorie and sugar-free drinks.
Daily regular physical exercise like walking, swimming, and cycling for about 30 minutes is strongly recommended.
Weight management is crucial for obese diabetics.
Amla (Indian gooseberry) mixed with Turmeric powder once a day.
Fenugreek helps to regulate blood sugar levels. Soak and fry fenugreek seeds once a week.
Coccinia indica (Ivy-gourd) vegetable once a week.
Soaked ladyfingers or Bhindi in water overnight, filtered and drank the water daily.
Drink water stored in a copper vessel overnight.
Take Mordica charity Ras half teaspoon daily.
Zinc-rich foods like ginger root, walnuts, almonds, etc.
Consult an Ayurvedic physician for the quantity of ingredients and show your blood sugar report before taking any remedy.

Avoid:

Diabetic foods containing sorbitol, high in calories, and may cause gastrointestinal side effects.
Reduce sodium intake to no more than 6g daily.

Normal Blood Sugar Levels:

Normal Fasting Blood Sugar: 70-100 mg/dl
Post-Meal Blood Sugar (Postprandial): Up to 160 mg/dl

Though I have mentioned the quantity of ingredients in some natural home remedies, it is advisable to take the quantity with the consultation of an Ayurvedic physician. Before taking the remedies, also show your blood sugar report to your physician so that he can adjust the quantity of ingredients as per your sugar report.