What Exactly Is Juvenile/Type I Diabetes?
When fully healthy, a person should have a naturally abundant supply of insulin, which is a hormone produced by the pancreas. It is used by our bodies to allow glucose (sugar) to enter our cells to manufacture energy. A person afflicted with juvenile diabetes, however, is greatly limited because his or her pancreas makes little to no insulin.
A variety of factors can be the source of type 1 diabetes, such as genetics and some viruses. The resulting effects can be manifested as heightened thirst and hunger, tiredness and weakness, and blurry vision, among other symptoms. Although type I diabetes, which usually appears during childhood or adolescence, is a chronic condition with no known cure, symptoms can be alleviated through lifestyle changes such as exercise, a healthy diet that includes lean protein and foods known to reduce blood sugar levels. Add sufficient sleep to the mix (but not too much).
Treatment for diabetics can include properly prescribed, administered, and monitored medications, most notably insulin, as well as natural remedies such as nutrients, herbs, and supplements available over the counter.
5 Natural Remedies to Help Mediate Juvenile Diabetes
Following are five nutrients or supplements that have shown some success for type I diabetics when it comes to regulating their blood sugar levels and perhaps alleviating some or many of the accompanying symptoms. As always, it is prudent to discuss use of any of these natural remedies with your personal physician to make sure they won’t conflict with any medications you are already taking or if they might be ill-advised for other health-related issues you might be experiencing. They are arranged in alphabetical order.
Alpha Lipoic Acid. Use of this nutrient can help guard against diabetic-related issues such as nerve and kidney damage. A daily regimen of 600 to 1,200 mg is recommended, but, again, be sure to confer with a health professional first.
Vitamin D. Because research has shown a link between elevated blood-glucose levels and a vitamin D deficiency, it stands to reason that supplementation with vitamin D can help regulate those glucose levels.
Chromium. This essential trace mineral can contribute to proper regulation of your glucose level.
Fenugreek. Studies have shown that fenugreek can help regulate a healthy blood-sugar level. Talk to your physician or other health professional to determine how much should be taken daily to work best for you.
Ginseng. Several studies have indicated that American ginseng can help thwart hyperglycemia and keep blood-sugar levels where they need to be.
Just because juvenile diabetes, also known as type 1 diabetes, is a chronic condition that has no known cure, there are supplements available over the counter that together with exercise and conscious efforts to reduce stress in one’s life can make your lifestyle much more manageable and productive.