People with diabetes need to be conscious of several health measures. Traditionally, individuals with diabetes use Western medicine with prescriptions to manage their symptoms. However, the rise of alternative medicine has piqued the interest of many patients with diabetes, and science has shown that these options may help in a few unorthodox ways. But what are these alternative healing methods that may help your diabetes? Read on to find out. Make sure you speak to your doctor before you make any of these changes, and do not use these methods to replace prescribed medication.
Healing With Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an interesting healing modality that places needles at what are called meridian points. These points are said to contain energy flows throughout the body. People who practice this modality claim that energy blockages may occur more frequently in individuals with diabetes, leading to serious health issues. Acupuncturists pierce the skin at these points and unblock the energy within them. This may sound far out, but oddly enough, studies show that acupuncture may help improve blood sugar levels and relieve symptoms of neuropathy—a key symptom that people with diabetes should know. Whether you’re a believer in energy or not, the studies are impressive enough to warrant a second look.
Qi Gong and Tai Chi
Qi Gong and Tai Chi are great for people with diabetes for a few reasons. These exercises are a form of slow, full-body movements that gently work all your muscles. Studies also indicate that they help lower cortisol levels—a hormone that can lead to elevated blood sugar levels. Many practitioners of these arts attribute this to “balancing the energy of the body.” This may be true, but at the very least, systematic breathing, gentle exercise, and healing visualizations are bound to make you feel better after one session. Additionally, people with diabetes often shouldn’t do high-impact exercises such as jumping, dancing, and running because their feet are more prone to wounds and slow healing. This isn’t a problem with Qi Gong, as it gradually warms you up and generally keeps your feet on the ground.
Dietary Supplements
There have been some promising studies that explore the way dietary supplements can help manage diabetes. For instance, Alpha-lipoic acid may help regulate blood sugar. It also helps relieve some symptoms of diabetic neuropathy. Additionally, chromium is a trace mineral found in different foods, and it may improve blood sugar levels in people who have diabetes. However, it’s important to be aware that the use of dietary supplements in addition to your medication could cause complications. Contact your doctor before taking any supplements, as they could clash with your medication, leading to complications that make them less effective or even make you sick.
In short, we still have quite a few studies ahead of us when it comes to understanding how alternative methods of healing work. However, the field is promising. Even if some of these methods seem far-fetched, consider giving them a try if your doctor recommends them. It might help you tremendously.
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