Types & Causes
There are several types of diabetes.The causes of each are listed below.
Type 1
Is an autoimmune disease, where the body’s immune system attacks the cells that make insulin. It is thought to be genetic. Only about 10%of people with diabetes have this type.
Type 2
Occurs when your body becomes resistant to insulin, leading to an increase of sugar in the blood. It is the most common type of diabetes, and linked closely to lifestyle. Being overweight, getting little to no exercise, poor eating habits, smoking, stress and poor sleep habits are risk factors.
Gestational Diabetes
Is high blood sugar during pregnancy, triggered by certain hormones. Sugar levels usually return to normal about 6 weeks after the baby is born, but it is a risk factor for Type 2 diabetes later in life.
Prediabetes
Prediabetes is a condition where the sugar levels in the blood are higher than they should be, but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes.
Symptoms
The general symptoms of diabetes include
Increased Hunger
Increased Thirst
Weight Loss
Frequent Need To Pass Urine
Fatigue
Irritability
Blurred Vision
Wounds that don’t heal
Frequent Infections
Treatment: The Ayurvedic Approach
There is no cure for diabetes. Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to managing diabetes effectively and naturally. It combines diet, exercise, stress management and sleep with a regime of natural herbs to keep sugar levels in check. Here are some of the key herbs used to treat Diabetes.
Amla
Amla is rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants as well as a great source of iron, calcium, chromium, phosphorus. It helps the body process carbohydrates properly and absorb insulin.
Karela
Karela contains charanti, which lowers blood glucose, and polypeptide-p - an insulin-like compound. It makes insulin active so that sugar is processed more effectively.
Shilajit
Found in the rocks of the Himalayas, this rasayan herb has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It reduces blood glucose levels and promotes production of insulin.
Garlic
Garlic reduces bad cholesterol, aids blood flow and fights infections. It also helps to increase insulin levels.
Triphala
A combination of Amla, Bibhitaki and Haritaki, Triphala helps lower blood sugar levels and cholesterol, and also helps cells absorb blood sugar.
Methi
Fenugreek seeds are a source of fibre and other compounds that slow down digestion and the body’s absorption of carbohydrates and sugar.
