When glucose level exceeds certain limits, it does more harm than good. PHOTO: FILE
Diabetes is a human body disorder in which the blood glucose level rises well above normal, causing organ damage or malfunction of the organs. It is caused when the food we eat is converted into glucose by the liver and from there it is released into our bloodstream. The blood in turn carries the glucose to each and every cell and tissue of our body, providing it with energy to perform daily tasks and other bodily functions. But when this glucose level exceeds certain limits, it does more harm than good.
Types of diabetes:
The two most common types of diabetes are ‘type 1’ and ‘type 2’ diabetes. Both the forms are related to insulin production and the organ which produces it, the pancreas. Insulin is a hormone that metabolises the glucose to be used by the blood cell.
In both cases, the body cells are deprived of the energy given by the glucose which can lead to multi-organ damage.
Natural remedies to manage and control diabetes:
Jamun
It helps in reducing and regulating the glucose level in the blood. It is rich in vitamins and minerals which keeps the liver active and helps with indigestion.
Having fresh jamun is highly recommended. You can also make decoction of jamun by boiling it in the water and drinking it thrice a day for the best results.
Jamun seeds are also anti-diabetic. Grind the seeds into a fine powder and have one teaspoon of it in the morning on an empty stomach and one in the evening followed by a glass of water.
Bitter gourd
It is the most popular and effective remedy for keeping blood sugar level in check. It is full of antioxidant properties that counter the rising glucose level.
Take the juice of two fresh bitter gourds, add the pulp of a lemon to it and drink that. The juice will be bitter in taste, but if taken regularly it will keep the diabetes under control.
Garlic
It contains allicin which helps in blood sugar maintenance. Just have two cloves of fresh garlic on an empty stomach to get your blood sugar under control.
Curry leaves
They are an excellent remedy for diabetes caused by genetic predisposition. They prevent the sugar level from rising and control the patient’s urination problem.
You can chew 10 to 12 fresh curry leaves on an empty stomach.
Psyllium seed
They contain natural fibre that helps in weight loss, as dietary fibre adds bulk to your diet. When consumed, it makes you feel full faster enabling you to eat less food. This ultimately reduces your blood sugar level.
Avoid processed foods
They contain high levels of saturated fats which spike the blood sugar level and should be absolutely eliminated from your diet.
Power walk
Walking is mandatory as it helps to considerably lower the blood glucose level. Twenty minutes of power walking, four times a week works wonders in the fight against diabetes.
Published in The Express Tribune, Sunday Magazine, December 30th, 2012.
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