Alternative treatments cannot replace the need for insulin but they may enhance insulin’s effectiveness and may lower blood glucose levels. In addition, alternative medicines may help to treat complications of the disease and improve quality of life.
Supplements
Chromium Picolinate.
Several studies have had conflicting results on the effectiveness of chromium picolinate supplementation for control of blood glucose levels. In one study, approximately 70% of the diabetics receiving 200 micrograms of chromium picolinate daily reduced their need for insulin and medications. While some studies have shown that supplementation caused significant weight loss, and decreases in blood glucose and serum triglycerides, others have shown no benefit. Chromium supplementation may cause hypoglycemia and other side effects.
Magnesium.
Magnesium deficiency may interfere with insulin secretion and uptake and worsen the patient’s control of blood sugar. Also, magnesium deficiency puts diabetics at risk for certain complications, especially retinopathy and cardiovascular disease.
Vanadium.
Vanadium has been shown to bring blood glucose to normal levels in diabetic animals. Also, people who took vanadium were able to decrease their need for insulin.
Chinese medicine
Non-insulin dependent diabetics who practiced daily qigong for one year had decreases in fasting blood glucose and blood insulin levels. Best when used in consultation with a Chinese medicine physician, some Chinese patent medicines that alleviate symptoms of or complications from diabetes include:
- Xiao Ke Wan (Emaciation and Thirst Pill) for diabetics with increased levels of sugar in blood and urine.
- Yu Quan Wan (Jade Spring Pill) for diabetics with a deficiency of Yin.
- Liu Wei Di Huang Wan (Six Ingredient Pill with Rehmannia) for stabilized diabetics with a deficiency of Kidney Yin.
- Jin Gui Shen Wan (Kidney Qi Pill) for stabilized diabetics with a deficiency of Kidney Yang.
Acupuncture.
Acupuncture may relieve pain in patients with diabetic neuropathy. Acupuncture also may help to bring blood glucose to normal levels in diabetics who do not require insulin.
Herbals
Herbal medicine can have a positive effect on blood glucose and quality of life in diabetics. The results of clinical study of various herbals are:
- Wormwood (Artemisia herba-alba) decreased blood glucose.
- Gurmar (Gymnema sylvestre) decreased blood glucose levels and the need for insulin.
- Coccinia indica improved glucose tolerance.
- Fenugreek seed powder (Trigonella foenum graecum) decreased blood glucose and improved glucose tolerance.
- Bitter melon (Momordica charantia) decreased blood glucose and improved glucose tolerance.
- Cayenne pepper (Capsicum frutescens) can help relieve pain in the peripheral nerves (a type of diabetic neuropathy).
Other herbals that may treat or prevent diabetes and its complications include:
- Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) may lower blood glucose levels and maintain healthy blood vessels.
- Garlic (Allium sativum) may lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
- Onions (Allium cepa) may help lower blood glucose levels.
- Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) improves blood circulation.
Yoga
Studies of diabetics have shown that practicing yoga leads to decreases in blood glucose, increased glucose tolerance, decreased need for diabetes medications, and improved insulin processes. Yoga also enhances the sense of well-being.
Biofeedback
Many studies have been performed to test the benefit of adding biofeedback to the diabetic’s treatment plan. Relaxation techniques, such as visualization, usually were included. Biofeedback can have significant effects on diabetes including improved glucose tolerance and decreased blood glucose levels. In addition, biofeedback can be used to treat diabetic complications and improve quality of life.
