Naturopathic Solutions For Type 1 Diabetes Part 2

In our last article, we covered the causes for type 1 diabetes; in part 2, we will start to dive further into what naturopathic diabetes treatments you can ask your local naturopath about.

Diagnosing Type 1 Diabetes

We already know how type 1 diabetes presents, from our previous article on the subject.

When the pancreas stops producing enough insulin, we see symptoms such as:

• Frequent urination or bed-wetting
• Fatigue and weakness
• Increased thirst and hunger
• Weight loss
• Mood fluctuations and irritability
• Blurred vision

Now scientists consider type 1 diabetes an autoimmune condition. Unfortunately, by the time is diagnosed most of the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas have been destroyed.

Almost all type 1 diabetics will be required to monitor glucose levels and treat themselves with insulin for the duration of their lives.

Because insulin cannot be taken orally – stomach enzymes break down the insulation, rendering it unusable – it must be administered by either injection or with an insulin pump.

Naturopathic Approach To Type 1 Diabetes Treatment

While type 1 diabetes isn’t curable, it can be managed quite effectively through the following treatments.

It should go without saying that nothing you read in this article, or on this website in general, should be used as a substitute for advice from a qualified healthcare practitioner. Please do not cease taking any medication or alter your prescription because of what you read in this article or on this website.

Instead, come talk to me and we’ll work on how to help you incorporate them into your lifestyle

1. Chromium Supplements

Supplements can also be of assistance with controlling your diabetes.

Zinc and magnesium are both helpful, and this study
has also shown positive results from using chromium.

Scientists noticed that several previous studies had linked decreased levels of chromium, zinc and magnesium with type 1 diabetes, and specifically with poor glycemic control.

Once these levels are replenished, insulin signal transduction improves, as well as glucose metabolism and your cellular antioxidative defense.

Supplementing with chromium helps by alleviating diabetes-induced complications and by preventing diabetes-related oxidative injuries.

2. Gymnema Sylvestre Supplements

Naturopaths use many different types of treatments in supporting your health and wellness, including supplements – as described above – and herbs.

Gymnema sylvestre is an herb that has been shown in studies to decrease blood sugar.

Gymnema sylvestre is generally well tolerated and can be an effective treatment, and has no side effects associated with its use.

3. Dietary Changes

For diabetics especially – although this is also an excellent diet for the rest of the population – it is important to build their diet on a low-saturated fat, high-fiber foundation.

Start with including primarily fruits, vegetables and whole grains, while also eliminating refined carbs such as sugar, bread and candy.

With type 1 diabetes, you’ll need to learn to monitor your carb intake so that you can be sure to dose yourself with enough insulin to metabolize properly.Many people who are first learning to manage type 1 diabetes find it helpful to have a naturopath on hand to help them build a meal plan that keeps them safely in range.

4. Physical Activity

The important thing to remember about exercise is that physical activity will actively and effectively lower your blood sugar.

Always check with a doctor before starting a new exercise regimen, and then feel free to find something that gets you moving that you also enjoy.

Fit in at least 150 minutes of aerobic exercise every week, with no more than two days between workouts; children need more activity, however – at least an hour every day.

Call The Mindful Healing Clinic

Because the side-effects of type 1 diabetes can be so debilitating, I can’t urge you strongly enough to seek knowledgeable, experienced advice on how to manage your lifestyle for best results.

My name is Dr. Maria Cavallazzi, and I am a naturopathic doctor in Mississauga who has over 15 years’ experience helping patients by treating their diabetes.

Call now for a consultation with me, in order to get to the bottom of your lifestyle challenges and how best to adjust in order to live a long, healthy life with type 1 diabetes.