Diabetes
is a chronic, degenerative condition that continues to increase in frequency
among children and adults in the United States. Statistics released in early
2011 by the American Diabetes Association show that 25.8 million children and
adults in the United States or 8.3% of the population have diabetes. It is
estimated that 1.3 million people in the US will be diagnosed this year alone.
There
are two types of diabetes: Type 1 diabetes (diabetes mellitus) is usually
diagnosed in children and young adults. In type 1 diabetes, the body does not
produce insulin. Type 1 diabetics are insulin dependent.
Type
2 diabetes (adult on-set) is the most common form of diabetes affecting more
than 15 million Americans. In type 2 diabetes, the body does not use insulin
properly causing it to build up in the bloodstream. The buildup of insulin can
lead to complications such as heart disease, hypertension, eye problems, kidney
disease, nervous system disease, periodontal disease, amputation, fatigue,
depression, Alzheimer's disease and osteoporosis.
While
diabetes is generally a long-term condition, diabetics can manage their
condition and live long, healthy lives with appropriate medical treatment and
healthy life-style changes. Acupuncture and Chinese herbs can play a
significant role in a comprehensive treatment plan to manage diabetes and its
symptoms, and potentially reduce the need for medication.
Acupuncture
and Chinese herbal medicine have been used to treat diabetes for over 2000
years. In Chinese medicine, diabetes is referred to as "wasting and
thirsting disease,"an imbalance of Qi and Yin that produces heat and
depletes the body's fluids causing heat-like symptoms: excessive thirst,
irritability, swollen gums, itchy skin and dry mouth.
During
an acupuncture treatment, fine needles are inserted into specific points on the
body to restore the flow of Qi and nourish Yin (fluids). The treatment for
diabetes focuses on regulating the circulation of blood and Qi, improving
pancreatic function, addressing internal heat and depletion of fluids.
Chinese
herbal medicine is an important component in the treatment of diabetes. The
following are a few examples Chinese herbal formulas that are typically used in
conjunction with acupuncture to treat diabetes and its symptoms. Because not
all formulas are appropriate for every individual, it is important that you
consult with a knowledgeable healthcare provider before including them in your
treatment plan.
•
Da Chai Hu Tang (Major Bupleurum Decoction). This herbal formula reduces the
rate at which glucose enters the bloodstream and increases the efficiency of
insulin. It is especially useful if diabetes occurs with long-term
gastrointestinal disorders.
•
Xiao Chai Hu Tang (Minor Bupleurum Decoction). This herbal formula reduces the
rate at which glucose enters the bloodstream after meals. It is especially
useful if diabetes occurs with HIV or as a complication of hepatitis infection.
•
Bai Hu Jian Ren Sheng Tang (White Tiger Plus Ginseng Decoction). Helps to lower
sugar levels by increasing the amount of sugar stored in the liver. It relieves
symptoms such as fever, general discomfort, general weakness, great thirst,
profuse sweating, and restlessness.
•
Liu Wei Di Huang Tang (Six Ingredient Pill with Rehannia). Treats symptoms that
may accompany diabetes such as: vertigo, tinnitus, poor hearing, night sweats,
heat in the five palms (hands, feet, a/or chest), weak low back, light
headedness.
Other
natural therapies for diabetes include dietary changes, exercise, and
nutritional supplementation are very effective in managing type 1 and type 2
diabetes, and may possibly reverse pre-diabetes.
•
Eat 3 meals a day at regular times. Keep portions moderate.
•
Eat a low-fat, organic whole foods diet that is rich in fish, chicken,
vegetables, fruit, and whole grains. This diet is rich in essential fatty
acids, antioxidants, and fiber. Fiber will help reduce blood sugar surges.
•
Avoid refined carbohydrates: white flour, candy, fruit juice, and soda pop.
Natural sweeteners that do not adversely affect blood glucose levels such as
stevia and xylitol are available at health food stores.
•
Avoid saturated fats, simple sugars (except when it is necessary to balance an
insulin reaction), caffeine, and alcohol.
•
Many diabetics will notice better glucose control by having a small portion of
protein at every meal.
•
Juice therapy is also beneficial. Drink the juice of one lime in a glass of
water daily.
•
Follow a regular exercise program to help reduce insulin and glucose levels,
shrink fat cells, and make glucose control more effective. Do 30 minutes of
gentle exercise, like walking or yoga, daily.
The
following foods may also play an important role in helping patients manage
diabetes when included in a healthy diet. Most are readily available in Asian
markets and health food stores.
•
Black wood ear. This mushroom-like fungus has a neutral taste and adds a
pleasant crunch to dishes. It should be soaked in warm water then added to
soups, stir-fried dishes, or lightly cooked and added to salads. In Chinese
dietary therapy, the black wood ear nourishes the Yin and generates fluids.
•
Bitter melon is a vegetable that looks like a bumpy cucumber. It is available
in Asian markets. To avoid bitterness use it while still green. It can be
salted and rinsed before use. Studies suggest that bitter melon contains a
compound that moderates blood sugar, making it useful in helping control type 2
diabetes.
•
Bok choy. This member of the cabbage family has a crunchy white stem and dark
green leaves. To use in stir-fries, cook the stems and leaves separately, as
the stems need additional cooking time. It is high in fiber, Vitamins A and C.
In Chinese dietary therapy is used to clear heat, quench thirst and lubricate
the intestines.
•
Chinese yam (mountain yam). In Chinese dietary therapy the Chinese yam is
recommended for long-term use to increase vitality for those recovering from
illness or weakened by old age. Chinese yams may also play a role in managing
diabetes. Scientific studies have shown a decrease in blood glucose levels in
mice eating the vegetable.
•
Cinnamon. Scientists suggest that cinnamon can help control blood sugar making
it useful in managing diabetes. It also has anti-bacterial properties. In
Chinese medicine, it is used to treat abdominal pain, reduced appetite, and
diarrhea, increase vitality, and alleviate pain.
•
Pumpkin and winter squash. These are members of the squash family with a tough
outer rind and sweet orange flesh. Research suggests a compound in Asian
pumpkins improves insulin levels and lowers blood sugar. In Chinese tradition,
the pumpkin is also considered good for people with diabetes. Can be used in
soups, stir-fries and congees.
In
addition to making healthy lifestyle choices, it is important to create a
support team of health care professionals including primary care physician, eye
doctor, nurses, a dietician and a license acupuncturist or Doctor of Oriental
Medicine.
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