More and more people are turning to complementary and alternative medicine as a way to help treat and cure diabetes.
Such practices include, but are not limited to meditation, hypnosis, and biofeedback.
The Food and Drug Administration has not approved any of the holistic practices used to treat diabetes.
So, use of herbs, minerals, and dietary supplements have not been proven to work, and should also not be practiced unless your doctor's confirms that your medications will not interact badly with them.
That being said, many diabetics have reported a positive change in health after the integration of holistic methods.
Many plants and herbs that have been used as a treatment for diabetes are currently being tested by doctors.
These substances have been rumored to lower glucose levels as well benefit overall health.
The most commonly used substances are Coccinia indica, aloe vera, American ginseng, Gymemna sylvestre, Momordica charantia, and nopal.
Ginseng has been specifically singled out as a glucose-lowering substance.
Diabetes Care magazine has also stated that it lowers A l c levels, which are long-term measurements of blood glucose.
Magnesium has also been associated with treatment of diabetes.
Higher doses of magnesium might help level glucose, as can nicotinamide, vitamin E, vanadium, and chromium.
Many believers of holistic medicine turn to diets that are high in fiber and low in glycemic-index.
Omega-3 fatty acids and cinnamon have been linked to diabetic treatment, and can be found in fish, avocados, and other fruits and vegetables.
The consumption of fish may have a positive effect on triglycerides, and cinnamon can help to lower blood sugar.
Traditionally, these foods are not recommended as a large part of a diabetic diet, so consult with your doctor before making any major changes.
In addition to herbs, minerals, and foods, many followers of holistic medicine find that acupuncture and massage might have beneficial effects on their blood levels.
Acupuncture might help provide relief from pain associated with diabetes, and massage can help promote insulin absorption, relaxation as a means of lowering blood sugar, and pain relief associated with diabetic neuropathy.
It has been suggested that hypnotherapy can lower blood sugar by allowing a person to manage unwanted bodily behaviors which are affiliated with diabetes.
Biofeedback, which uses relaxation as a way to increase awareness of one's body, can help a person in lowering their blood glucose levels.
Additionally, increased relaxation might promote better blood flow, which will ease any pain associated with diabetes.
It is important to remember that none of these techniques have been scientifically proven, and are only to be used experimentally.
Consult with your doctor before trying anything that might put your body in any sort of risk.