Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is affecting more people than you might think. Did you know that currently, the number of people living with diabetes worldwide is estimated to be 536.6 million, which is about 1 in 10 people, and a staggering 90% of those cases are T2DM? It’s a significant number, and unfortunately, it’s expected to rise. In fact, projections suggest that by 2045, nearly 783 million people, or about 12.2%% of the global population, will be affected.
You might be wondering, “Why is this happening?” Well, several lifestyle and environmental factors are contributing to the increasing prevalence of T2DM. One of the biggest culprits is the rapid rise in obesity, but it’s not just about weight; other factors like your environment, sedentary lifestyle, type of food you eat, socioeconomic challenges, pollution, ethnicity, and family history also play a role. If you’re concerned about your risk or looking to improve your condition, understanding these factors is crucial. I have discussed in depth these factors and how to mitigate them in this article.
Diabetes And Lifelong Complications
Now, let’s talk about what T2DM actually is. It’s a chronic condition characterized by inability of your body to use insulin properly to regulate your blood sugar, also known as insulin resistance. Initially, your pancreas will create more insulin to try to work around the issue but eventually, it won’t be able to produce a sufficient amount of insulin to maintain your blood glucose levels at normal range. If this persistently high blood sugar is left unchecked, it can lead to some serious health problems. We’re talking about a decreased quality of life, potential blindness, heart disease, kidney failure, nerve damage, amputations, and even a shorter lifespan. That’s why managing your blood sugar and cholesterol levels is so crucial, especially if you’re trying to reduce your risk of heart problems related to T2DM.
What Is The Conventional Treatment For Diabetes?
While there are many medications and treatment guidelines available, controlling T2DM can still be a challenge. Current guidelines suggest starting with lifestyle changes, like diet and exercise. Some studies have even shown that certain diets can reverse T2DM in some people. The second line of treatment is medications that improves insulin sensitivity or stimulate the pancreas to produce more insulin, or administering insulin directly if needed. However, it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach, and early medicinal intervention is key when lifestyle adjustments aren’t enough.
Why The Need For Complimentary And Holistic medicine for diabetes treatment?
Here’s where things get a bit tricky: many people struggle to stick to their medication plans, which leads to poor blood sugar control and increases the risk of complications. This is particularly true in certain populations, where poor diabetes control is more common as a result of various reasons, including living in a deprived environment, facing difficulties with accessing healthcare, having problems with medication adherence or just due to lack of education regarding the condition.
And let’s be honest, sometimes just the fear of side effects can be the barrier. For instance, the anxiety and fear associated with injections can prevent many from starting insulin therapy Therefore, some people may turn to more natural approaches instead of conventional medicine. Globally, a significant portion of people with T2DM use complementary therapies alongside their prescribed medications, with prevenances varying greatly between countries and ranging from 17% up to 89% in some populations. Many individuals in India, China and the rest of Asia, aim to control the condition using various approaches from traditional medicines such as Ayuvada and Chinese herbal medicines. Many dietary supplements have also shown promise in improving insulin resistance and blood glucose levels.
How can holistic medicine be used in diabetes treatment?
If you made it this far, then I expect that you are one of many individuals who are exploring natural approaches to help control blood sugar levels. These could be used alongside lifestyle changes to reduce diabetes risk, reverse prediabetes or T2D in early stages, or some can be integrated into your regimen with conventional diabetes treatments to improve your outcome. Many recent high-quality studies have evaluated numerous supplements and herbs for their potential benefits in managing key markers of diabetes, including HbA1c (a measure of long-term blood glucose control), fasting plasma glucose (FPG), and HOMA-IR (a measure of insulin resistance). If you are looking to better manage your conditions, understanding the evidence behind these natural options is essential.
In this article I will delve into the science that backs the use of certain natural approaches and traditional practices to better manage T2D, helping you make informed decisions about incorporating them into your wellness routine. However, it is important to be cautious with consumption of herbal medicines, and definitely avoid over-consumption, this is particular if you are taking diabetes medication as they may further lower your blood glucose to potentially dangerous levels. And as always, discuss with your healthcare team before taking any supplements.
What is the role of micro-nutrients? What vitamins and minerals that may help diabetes treatment?
Before exploring specific herbal remedies, understanding the role of micro-nutrients in diabetes is crucial. Deficiencies in vitamins and minerals can directly or indirectly contribute to insulin resistance and risk of diabetes. Research indicates that vitamin D influences glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity, while disruptions in calcium balance are linked to diabetes risk. Abnormal calcium regulation can impair beta-cell function, potentially affecting insulin secretion and glucose metabolism. Impaired iron uptake can affect glucose metabolism, and serum ferritin levels may serve as independent predictors of glucose tolerance. Deficiency in Magnesium intake is associated with diabetes risk, with reduced intracellular magnesium leading to worsening of insulin resistance in diabetic patients. While metabolic zinc impairment potentially influences diabetes development.
In T2DM, fluid loss and reduced plasma levels often lead to increased metabolic demands for micronutrients. Imbalances in specific micronutrients can disrupt early stages of insulin metabolism, and therefore micronutrients play an important role in the mechanism of development of T2DM. Minerals and vitamins are essential for maintaining normal bodily functions, hence, having proper dietary choices and micronutrient supplementation can help you improve glycemic control.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C supplementation has demonstrated meaningful effects on glycemic control in people with diabetes. A comprehensive meta-analysis found that vitamin C can reduce fasting blood glucose by approximately 0.74 mmol/L and lower HbA1c by about 0.54%. These benefits appear to be most pronounced when supplementation continues for more than 12 weeks and in individuals with higher baseline HbA1c levels.
Another systematic review and meta-analysis of trials reported that for each 1% increase in baseline HbA1c, vitamin C reduced HbA1c by an additional 0.47%. However, higher doses may slightly increase fasting glucose, suggesting that moderate supplementation might be optimal.
These are my product recommendation:
Chromium
Chromium supplementation has shown promise in improving glycemic control, with studies indicating it can lower HbA1c by approximately 0.54% in short-term interventions. This essential trace mineral appears to enhance insulin receptor activity, which may explain its beneficial effects on blood sugar regulation.
A comparative study assessing the use of chromium in type 2 diabetes mellitus found a substantial reduction in HbA1c from 10.4 to 7.2 after three months of follow-up, along with a significant decrease in fasting blood sugar levels.
Probiotics
Well, not technically a vitamin or mineral but probiotic supplementation has emerged as a promising approach to diabetes treatment, with a meta-analyses showing modest but significant improvements in both fasting blood glucose and HbA1c. The studies often used probiotics alone or in combination with prebiotics (symbiotics). The most common types of bacteria used were from the Lactobacillus genus (in all studies) and the Bifidobacterium genus (in nine studies), with specific species like L. acidophilus, L. casei, L. reuteri, B. bifidum, and B. longum being frequently used.
However, a recent 16-week randomized controlled trial found no significant differences in glycemic control, lipid profiles, or weight between probiotic and placebo groups in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. This highlights the need for further research to clarify the efficacy of probiotics in diabetes treatment. That being said, we can see from the available research so far that it is becoming more clear that having a healthy gut is crucial in the absorption of many nutrients and achieving a healthy and balanced metabolism, which in turn will affect diabetes risk and management. You may use probiotic supplements if needed, but it is always better to maintain incorporating foods that are high in probiotics into your diet, such as sauerkraut, kimchi, organic yogurt, kefir and tempeh.
Zinc
Zinc has shown promising effects on fasting blood glucose in people with type 2 diabetes. A detailed meta-analysis found that zinc supplementation significantly reduced fasting blood glucose by an average of 20.34 mg/dL compared to placebo. This substantial reduction suggests zinc may play an important role in acute glucose metabolism.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that zinc supplementation led to a significant reduction in fasting blood glucose, but the effect on HbA1c or measures of insulin resistance in people with type 2 diabetes was inconclusive.
Magnesium
Magnesium supplementation has demonstrated modest but significant effects on fasting blood glucose in people with type 2 diabetes. This mineral plays a crucial role as a second messenger in insulin action, which may explain its influence on glucose metabolism. Research indicates that magnesium can reduce fasting glucose by approximately 6.25 mg/dL compared to placebo, however, it seems that it may not significantly affect HbA1c or fasting insulin levels.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D supplementation has shown mixed results in diabetes treatment, with some reporting significant effects and others not. Overall, a meta-analysis of RCTs indicates that vitamin D is not superior to placebo for improving fasting blood glucose or HbA1c in most circumstances. However, in short-term interventions lasting less than six months, it reported that vitamin D may produce small but statistically significant decreases in HbA1c, and more notably, lower markers of insulin resistance, with reductions in HOMA-IR (a measure of insulin resistance) and fasting insulin levels compared to placebo.
These are my product recommendation:
Polyphenols
Polyphenol supplements, including compounds like resveratrol, isoflavones, and flavanols, have shown variable effects on glycemic control in diabetes. A 2020 review found that there isn’t enough evidence to say whether resveratrol supplements are effective for treating type 2 diabetes, as no significant differences were seen in HbA1c, fasting blood glucose, or insulin resistance in the studies reviewed.
However, other research looking at various types of polyphenols (including resveratrol, isoflavones, flavanols, and a mixture of polyphenols) in people with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes found that in a subgroup of individuals with type 2 diabetes, polyphenols did lower fasting blood glucose by an average of 5.86 mg/dL compared to a placebo. This effect appeared to be even more pronounced (an average reduction of 10.17 mg/dL) in those who were also taking anti-diabetic medication.
Natural Supplements and Herbs for Diabetes Treatment: Current Evidence
Aloe Vera
Freshly extracted aloe vera juice has emerged as one of the most effective natural remedies for improving glycemic control. Multiple studies have demonstrated that aloe vera produces clinically significant reductions in HbA1c levels, making it a standout option among herbal approaches to diabetes treatment. Regular consumption can lead to meaningful improvements in blood sugar stability without notable adverse effects. Research suggests that aloe vera works by enhancing insulin sensitivity and helping to regulate glucose metabolism, addressing core factors in diabetes progression. The benefits appear to be consistent across studies, positioning aloe vera as a promising complement to conventional diabetes treatment strategies. Its accessibility and relatively simple preparation make it an appealing option for those seeking natural approaches to blood sugar control.
A recent meta-analysis found that aloe vera significantly reduced fasting blood glucose by 0.35 mg/dL in patients with pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes mellitus. A 2023 study found that consuming aloe vera juice for 30 days significantly reduced blood glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes compared to a control group. Another meta-analysis from 2016 showed that aloe vera could effectively reduce fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, triglycerides, total cholesterol, and LDL cholesterol while increasing HDL cholesterol in prediabetic and early untreated diabetic patients.
Psyllium Fiber
This common fiber supplement does more than aid digestion. When taken before meals, psyllium husk has shown comparable reductions in HbA1c levels to aloe vera; this soluble fiber works primarily by slowing the absorption of carbohydrates in the digestive system, which helps moderate post-meal blood sugar spikes. Studies indicate that consistent intake supports improved glycemic balance by enhancing the body’s metabolic response to food.
A clinical trial concluded that the reduction in Postprandial glucose in Patients of Diabetes mellitus type 2 by dietary fiber (psyllium husk) is significantly higher than in those who are not using dietary fiber but only using standard treatment only. A comprehensive meta-analysis found that psyllium significantly decreased HbA1c by 0.97% in clinical trials.
Psyllium husk is a simple, affordable option that pairs well with other treatments.
Ginseng (Panax spp.)
Ginseng, a plant extensively used in traditional medicine around the world especially in chinese medicine, is being examined for its potential to help manage diabetes, particularly type 2. The active components, ginsenosides, are believed to be responsible for these effects. A 2019 review of studies reported that ginseng may positively influence blood sugar levels in those with type 2 diabetes, though it doesn’t appear to significantly impact prediabetes or healthy individuals. The mechanisms behind this involve regulating insulin secretion, glucose uptake, and reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
Several studies explored ginseng’s impact on human subjects. A meta-analysis of sixteen clinical trials showed ginseng reduced fasting blood glucose by 0.31 mmol/L. Another analysis of eight trials found reductions in fasting glucose (0.306 mmol/L), postprandial insulin (2.132 mmol/L), and HOMA-IR (0.397 mmol/L).
Specific trials using Asian ginseng extracts revealed varying outcomes. For example, one study showed that 1.5 g/day of ginsam, enriched with ginsenoside Rg3, reduced HbA1c by 0.56% and fasting blood glucose by 21.40 mg/dL over eight weeks. Another study reported Hydrolyzed Asian ginseng extract decreased fasting and postprandial glucose, but did not significantly alter insulin levels. Fermented red ginseng, at 2.7 g/day for four weeks, increased postprandial insulin (from 35.5 µU/mL to 56.3 µU/mL) and reduced postprandial glucose and glucose AUC by 17.2% and 27.4%, respectively, but did not significantly impact fasting glucose or insulin. Korean red ginseng, at 5 g/day, was also shown to reduce fasting blood glucose and glucose AUC.
These studies suggest that various Asian ginseng extracts can lower fasting or postprandial glucose in type 2 diabetes. The fermentation process appears to enhance ginseng’s bioavailability, potentially improving its effects on postprandial glucose and insulin.
Fenugreek Seeds
Fenugreek seeds are rich in fiber and compounds that help slow down the digestion of carbohydrates, which can prevent blood sugar spikes after meals. These seeds have demonstrated significant efficacy in reducing HbA1c levels, offering a promising natural approach to blood sugar management. These seeds contain soluble fiber and compounds that appear to enhance insulin activity and improve carbohydrate metabolism. Research shows measurable improvements in glycemic parameters following regular supplementation with fenugreek.
A meta-analysis of 14 trials found that fenugreek seed consumption reduced fasting plasma glucose by 3.7 mg/dL, postprandial glucose by 10.61 mg/dL, and HbA1c by 0.88%. Another study demonstrated that dietary addition of fenugreek along with diet control had a synergistic effect on reducing fasting blood glucose and HbA1c levels over a 24-month period in prediabetic patients. You could add this amazing seed to your cooking or take as supplement.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon has been studied for its potential to improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels. While some studies have shown promising results, more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness in humans.
A 2016 review indicated that cinnamon might improve fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels in human subjects. However, it’s crucial to note that most participants continued their prescribed diabetes medications during these trials. A separate 2019 meta-analysis of 16 studies suggested that cinnamon could help lower fasting blood glucose and insulin resistance in those with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes. A 2009 clinical trial showed a significant decrease in HbA1c in diabetic patients consuming 1g of cinnamon daily for 90 days, compared to a control group.
While HbA1c is a key marker, lipid levels, cholesterol, and insulin sensitivity are also important in diabetes treatment. A 2020 systematic review and meta-analysis of trials reported that in patients with type 2 diabetes, Cinnamon supplementation can significantly reduce serum total cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL concentrations, however, it didn’t seem to affect HDL levels.
You could incorporate cinnamon into baked goods, teas, or take as a supplement.
Astragalus Membranaceus Root
Astragalus membranaceus root has shown notable efficacy in lowering HbA1c levels in clinical studies. This traditional herb has a long history in Asian medicine for supporting overall health and energy, with recent research confirming its benefits for glucose metabolism. Studies indicate that supplementation with astragalus root contributes to modest yet significant improvements in blood sugar levels.
Research has shown that Astragalus membranaceus flavonoids can enhance immunity, regulate glucose metabolism, and control the progression of diabetes. The herb has been found to improve intestinal barrier function and modulate the gut microbiota, which may contribute to its beneficial effects on glycemic control.
Nigella Sativa Seeds
Nigella sativa seeds (black cumin seeds) have demonstrated clinically and statistically significant reductions in HbA1c levels. These small black seeds contain active compounds that appear to promote insulin secretion and enhance glucose metabolism. Research shows favorable outcomes when these seeds are incorporated into a balanced diet, offering additional support for glycemic control.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that Nigella sativa supplementation resulted in significant reductions in fasting plasma glucose, HbA1c, and total cholesterol in individuals with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes mellitus. The study also reported improvements in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and C-reactive protein levels.
Nettle (Urtica dioica)
Nettle has shown promising results in diabetes treatment, this common herb appears to support both glycemic control and overall inflammation balance in the body with studies indicating clinically significant reductions in HbA1c. One study showed that nettle also produces clinically significant reductions in fasting plasma glucose, making it a comprehensive option for blood sugar management.
A meta-analysis of eight randomized controlled trials demonstrated that nettle might be effective in controlling fasting blood sugar in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The study also highlighted nettle’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may contribute to its benefits in diabetes treatment.
Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum)
Milk thistle is often used for liver health, but its antioxidant properties may also benefit people with diabetes. Some small studies have found that milk thistle extract can lower fasting blood sugar and HbA1c levels in people with type 2 diabetes. It may also protect the pancreas from damage caused by high blood sugar.
Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia)
True to its name, this tropical fruit has a sharp taste but great potential for diabetes treatment. A 12-week clinical study in 2022 found that bitter melon extract significantly decreased blood glucose levels 30 minutes after glucose ingestion and reduced glucagon levels 120 minutes after an oral glucose tolerance test in people with prediabetes.
However, its effect on diabetic patients is less evident; an old trial with 100 type 2 diabetes patients found 86% experienced reduced fasting and post-meal glucose levels after consuming bitter melon pulp. However, a 2014 meta-analysis of four randomized controlled trials found no significant improvements in A1C or fasting plasma glucose compared to no treatment in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Overall, results from studies suggest bitter melon may help stimulate insulin production and improve glucose uptake. It is available as a juice, supplement, or cooked vegetable.
Prickly Pear Cactus (Opuntia spp.)
Prickly pear is a cactus, that is widely used as food and herbal medicine for glucose control in central and south America. This cactus is rich in fiber and antioxidants that may help lower blood sugar levels after meals. A study has shown that consuming prickly pear cactus can reduce total cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL, blood glucose and insulin over time in non-diabetic men with hyperlipidemia (unhealthy high levels of lipids).
Prickly pear cactus is often eaten as a vegetable or taken as a supplement.
Garlic (Allium sativum)
Garlic is well-known for its heart health benefits but may also play a role in managing diabetes. A 2023 review of studies indicated that garlic possesses properties that may help combat diabetes, reduce cardiovascular issues, and protect nerve tissue. Various studies from that review reported that garlic can improve insulin sensitivity and lower fasting blood sugar levels. This suggests garlic could be a useful supplementary therapy for diabetes and its complications, used in conjunction with standard treatments.
Garlic is easy to incorporate into meals or taken as capsules.
Ivy Gourd (Coccinia grandis)
Commonly employed in traditional Indian and Sri Lankan medicine for a long time, Coccinia grandis L. Voigt (a member of the Cucurbitaceae family) exhibits significant antidiabetic potential across all its parts. This plant appears to work by various mechanisms, including promoting pancreatic β-cell regeneration, boosting insulin release, restoring antioxidant activity, improving glucose absorption, modulating metabolic enzymes, improving lipid levels, and inhibiting digestive enzymes. Combining Coccinia grandis with other plant extracts may further enhance its antidiabetic effectiveness and minimize adverse effects. A 12 weeks trial in prediabetic patients reported improved fasting blood glucose, 2 h post-prandial blood glucose and triglycerides.
You could consume Ivy gourd as a vegetable or take it as a herbal supplement.
Gymnema Sylvestre
Known as the “sugar destroyer” in Ayurvedic medicine, Gymnema sylvestre has been shown to lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin production in clinical studies. A 2021 systematic review and meta-analysis of 10 studies reported that Gymnema Sylvestre supplementation resulted in significantly reduction of fasting blood glucose, postprandial blood glucose, triglyceride and total cholesterol. Furthermore, Gymnema Sylvestre may help reduce cravings for sugary foods by blocking the taste of sweetness on the tongue.
You may take Gymnema as a tea or supplement.
Ginger
Ginger has long been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties; hence, it can help in progression of diabetes and its complications. Further, recent studies show that ginger can help lower fasting blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity in people with type 2 diabetes. For example, one clinical trial found that taking ginger daily for three months led to better blood glucose control and HbA1c levels compared to a placebo group. A 2024 systematic review and meta-analysis of 20 studies reported that oral supplementation with ginger seem to exhibit a hypoglycemic effect in patients with type 2 diabetes, however, more trials are needed to confirm how significant the impact is.
You can incorporate ginger more into your meals or drink it as tea. Supplements are also available.
Traditional Chinese Formulas
Complex traditional Chinese formulas, particularly Gegen Qinlian and Jinqi Jiantang, have demonstrated clinically and statistically significant reductions in HbA1c levels1. These formulations combine multiple herbs that work synergistically to modulate blood sugar levels and enhance metabolic function. Research suggests that these formulas also produce significant reductions in fasting plasma glucose, offering comprehensive benefits for glycemic control.
Studies on, Daming capsules, which are Developed based on traditional Chinese medicine principles, have reported ability to effectively reduce serum TG and LDL levels and elevate HDL levels in diabetic models. Additionally, this capsule has been shown to increase the secretion of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), a hormone that stimulates insulin release.
A 2023 systematic review and meta-analysis of traditional Chinese medicines combined with conventional Western medicine for treating type 2 diabetes found that certain formulas, such as Shenqi Jiangtang granules combined with sulfonylureas or metformin, showed significant effects on reducing fasting blood glucose and improving clinical efficacy compared to Western medicines alone.
Body & Mind Approaches for Diabetes Treatment
Finally, I want to emphasize the profound impact that body-mind approaches can have on managing your diabetes. Integrating practices like Tai Chi, yoga, and mindful breathing into your daily routine can significantly improve both your physical and mental well-being. Tai Chi, with its gentle, flowing movements, enhances balance, flexibility, and muscle strength, which are crucial for maintaining healthy blood sugar levels and reducing the risk of falls. Yoga, combining physical postures with breathwork, not only improves insulin sensitivity and reduces stress hormones like cortisol, but it also promotes better sleep and mental clarity. Deep breathing techniques, such as diaphragmatic breathing, can calm your nervous system, lower blood pressure, and improve glucose regulation.
These practices are not just about physical exercise; they cultivate a deeper awareness of your body’s signals, fostering better self-management and reducing the emotional burden often associated with diabetes. They can empower you to take an active role in your health, leading to improved overall quality of life and a greater sense of control.
The lowdown
When navigating diabetes, remember that your well-being is a tapestry woven from various threads. Holistic and integrative approaches offer a powerful way to enhance your quality of life, complementing conventional treatments. Prioritize a balanced diet, rich in diverse micronutrients. This nourishes your body at a cellular level, stabilizing blood sugar and fostering overall health. Supplementation, when deemed necessary, can bridge nutritional gaps, but always under professional guidance.
Integrating scientifically-backed herbal remedies, like the ones we discussed earlier, can be beneficial, but only after thorough discussion your healthcare team particularly if you are taking any medications. We must ensure these remedies interact safely with your existing medications and address your individual needs.
Your journey is unique, and by embracing these holistic strategies, you can work with your health team together to minimize your reliance on medications, mitigate the risk of complications, and empower you to live a vibrant, fulfilling life.