Diabetes and Insulin
Diabetes is a condition in which the body either does not
manufacture sufficient amounts of insulin or does not properly
use insulin. Insulin is a hormone made by the pancreas that is
necessary for the transport of sugar from the blood stream into
the cells for use as energy.
Type 2 diabetes occurs when our bodies become insensitive to
insulin and cause our blood sugar go out of balance. For this
reason, we want to do everything we can to maintain insulin
sensitivity.
When we are insulin sensitive, our bodies do a much better job
of moving glucose from the blood and into cells. Various herbs,
foods, vitamins, and minerals have been shown to promote insulin
sensitivity and help maintain proper blood sugar levels. Vanadyl
sulfate increases the body's insulin sensitivity. Gymnema
sylvestre is a well known herb helpful in blood sugar control by
controlling sugar cravings and nourishing the pancreas.
Exercise also increases insulin sensitivity. People involved in
athletics are known to require less insulin. Besides improving
insulin sensitivity, exercise helps us to control our weight and
reduce body fat. Weight control is a very important aspect in
maintaining insulin sensitivity.
Another important factor in maintaining proper blood sugar
levels and insulin sensitivity is a healthful diet. Complex
carbohydrates found in most vegetables, apples, grains, and nuts
are slow to digest. Slowing the process of digestion promotes
healthy blood sugar levels and avoids the highs and lows
associated with the intake of refined sugars. We should also
avoid saturated fats. The healthy fats contained in fish, olive
oil, and flaxseed help us to maintain insulin sensitivity.
Type 2 Diabetes is the most common form of diabetes and results
from insulin resistence. The above methods have been shown to be
extremely helpful in maintaining insulin sensitivity, promoting
lower blood sugar levels, and avoiding the complications
associated with diabetes.
For further information on diabetes treatment visit
http://www.diabetessites.com/diabetes-treatment.html
About the author:
Dr. Mark S. Johnson, D.C., FAFICC, QME
