Diabetes

In 2010, an estimated 285 million people in the world have diabetes. That’s 6.4% of the adult population worldwide. The number is expected to grow to 438 million by 2030. 

The complications from diabetes are major causes of premature illness and death worldwide. Heart disease and stroke, high blood pressure, blindness, kidney disease and amputation are samples of these complications. 
It is important to try:
1. Ampalaya - Otherwise known as bitter melon, Ampalaya has been shown to lower blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes. Health Express Ampalaya is the best in the market because it is the only one that uses the “Makiling” variety which was used by the aptly named bitter melon is thought to help cells use glucose more effectively and block sugar absorption in the intestine. When Philippine researchers had men and women take bitter melon in capsule form for three months, they had slight, but consistently, lower blood sugar than those taking a placebo.

2. Carb Control - Blocks 70% of carbohydrates from entering the blood stream prevents this from turning into sugar. This may help regulate the body's insulin levels and prevents blood sugar spiking.

3. Malunggay or Moringa - Researchers recently reported that Vitamin D is essential for the islet cells in the pancreas to be able to secrete insulin properly. The studies have shown that individuals with the lowest Vitamin D levels experienced the worst blood sugar-handling problems and had a greater risk of developing diabetes. Moringa as a rich source of ascorbic acid helps in insulin secretion. It is interesting to note that certain nutrients like Vitamins B1, B2, B12, pantothenic acid, Vitamin C, protein and potassium, along with small frequent meals containing some carbohydrate - can actually stimulate production of insulin within the body.

4. Gymnema Sylvestre - This plant’s Hindi name translates as “sugar destroyer,” and the plant is said to reduce the ability to detect sweetness. It is regarded as one of the most powerful herbs for blood-sugar control. It may work by boosting the activity of enzymes that help cells use glucose or by stimulating the production of insulin. Though it hasn’t been studied ­extensively, it’s not known to cause serious side effects.

5. Alpha Lipoic Acid - Called ALA for short, this vitamin-like substance neutralizes many types of free radicals. A build-up of free radicals, caused in part by high blood sugar, can lead to nerve damage and other problems. ALA may also help muscle cells take up blood sugar. In a German study, a team of scientists had 40 adults take either an ALA supplement or a placebo. At the end of the four-week study, the ALA group had improved their insulin sensitivity 27 percent. The placebo group showed no improvement. Other studies have shown a decrease in nerve pain, numbness, and burning.

6. Ginseng - Known for its immune-boosting and disease-fighting benefits, this Chinese herb has several positive diabetes studies behind it. Re­searchers have found that ginseng slows carbohydrate absorption; increases cells’ ability to use glucose; and increases insulin secretion from the pancreas. A team from the University of Toronto has repeatedly demonstrated that ginseng capsules lower blood glucose 15 to 20 percent compared to placebo pills.