Ayurveda is a 5,000-year-old wellness science that focuses on holistic healing as opposed to symptomatic treatment. The ancient medical practice is growing in popularity for its proven ability to treat chronic illnesses, such as diabetes. The Ayurvedic approach to treating diabetes is to combine a healthy diet with exercise, panchakarma (body purification processes) and medications. The goal of this treatment is not just to help one manage symptoms, but also to help reverse the condition completely and prevent further complications. Continue reading to learn more about Ayurvedic treatments for diabetes.
Ayurveda and diabetes
Diabetes, which is a metabolic condition, is referred to as Madhumeda in Ayurvedic texts. Madhumeda translates to “Madhu,” which means sweet, and “Meha,” which means urine. This is since the urine of a diabetic person smells like honey.
When it comes to Ayurveda and diabetes, the ancient texts indicate that the condition is caused due to an imbalance of the doshas, which, in turn, causes a blockage in your vital channels. This type of diabetes is referred to as Avarana and results in adult-onset diabetes. Ayurvedic practitioners also believe that tissue depletion in the body can cause some types of diabetes. This condition is referred to as Dhatuksyaya and usually occurs in children.
Types of diabetes
There are three primary types of diabetes:
Type 1 diabetes: Also referred to as insulin-dependent diabetes and juvenile diabetes, this condition usually begins in one’s childhood. In the case of someone with type 1 diabetes, the pancreas makes little or no insulin. It’s not yet certain what causes type 1 diabetes. However, it is believed that the condition could be the result of certain viruses or genetics. Keep in mind that while type 1 diabetes usually affects children and adolescents, it can also develop in adults. Type 1 diabetes usually cannot be reversed. However, the symptoms of the condition can be managed with medication, insulin and a healthy lifestyle.
Some of the symptoms of type 1 diabetes include:
- Excessive thirst
- Bedwetting and urinating frequently
- Feeling extremely hungry and losing weight without trying
- Sudden mood swings
- Fatigue and blurry vision
Type 2 Diabetes: In the case of type 2 diabetes, the body produces insulin. However, the cells are unable to absorb the insulin and convert the sugar to energy. Type 2 diabetes usually takes years to develop (hence, it typically develops in adults) and is usually caused as a result of insufficient physical activity, obesity and a poor diet. Fortunately, since type 2 diabetes is a lifestyle disorder, you can treat the symptoms and even reverse the disorder by following an Ayurvedic diet for diabetes patients, losing weight, exercising and undergoing therapies. Some of the common symptoms of type 2 diabetes include:
- Increased thirst and hunger
- Frequent urination
- Rapid weight loss
- Sores that heal slowly
- Blurred vision
- Frequent infections
- Tingling and numbness in the feet and hands
Gestational diabetes: Unlike type 1 and type 2 diabetes, gestational diabetes only occurs in pregnant women. The symptoms typically go away after giving birth. However, once you develop gestational diabetes, you are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. The diabetes solution in Ayurveda for gestational diabetes is to modify one’s diet and lifestyle and use herbal supplements. A few symptoms of gestational diabetes are as follows:
- Increased thirst
- Frequent urination
- Fatigue
- Dry mouth
Ayurveda for diabetes treatment
Ayurveda and Diabetes Management go hand in hand. The following are some of the key Ayurvedic treatment strategies.
- Herbal medication: Several Ayurvedic practitioners prescribe herbal supplements and medications to help manage and treat the symptoms of diabetes. A few herbs and ingredients that work especially well to help manage blood sugar levels include amla, turmeric, cinnamon, bitter gourd and ginseng, among others.
- Panchakarma: This Ayurvedic treatment cleanses and rejuvenates the mind, body and consciousness. It helps eliminate toxins from the body, improves mental balance and strengthens your immune system.
- Dietary modifications: Ayurveda for diabetes recommends consuming a healthy diet that is rich in leafy vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Such a diet can help keep blood sugar levels in check. Ayurvedic practitioners also emphasize the importance of eating three meals a day and not snacking to reduce sugar spikes.
- Yoga and exercise: Lastly, it’s important to get at least 150 minutes of exercise every week. Being active makes the body far more sensitive to insulin, which can help one manage their condition.
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