Diabetes, Type 2 (Diagnosis, Conventional and Alternative Treatment)

Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2, is a chronic condition that affects the way your body metabolizes its may source of fuel – glucose (a form of sugar). When your body becomes immune to a hormone called insulin that regulates the absorption of sugar into the cells, or when your body produces some, but not enough insulin to maintain the glucose level, diabetes mellitus, type 2 develops.

Have your blood glucose level checked. See your doctor if your blood glucose level is persistently high. If your blood sugar level is higher than normal, but not high enough, for you to be diagnosed with type 2, diabetes, you are labeled with a prediabetes condition. Although prediabetes may have no signs and symptoms, the following should be watched out for:

Classic signs of diabetes

Excessive thirst

Frequent urination

Other signs and symptoms of diabetes

Constant hunger

Unexplained weight loss

Weight gain (more common in type 2)

Flu-like symptoms, including weakness and fatigue

Blurred vision

Slow-healing cuts or sores

Tingling or loss of feeling in the hands and feet

Recurring infections of gums and skin

Recurring vaginal or bladder infection

Conventional treatment for diabetes mellitus

To control your diabetes, you should maintain a watchful diet of fruits, vegetables and grains. Eat less sweets and animal products. Engage in an exercise program. Consult your doctor before starting an exercise program. Maintain a healthy weight. Follow your doctor’s medicine prescriptions.

Alternative treatment

The following may normalize your blood sugar levels:

Oat bran. It is rich in soluble fiber beta-glucan and has been shown to reduce blood sugar levels.

Soy. It contains soluble and insoluble fibers. Preliminary studies have shown that it moderately lowers blood sugar levels.

Cinnamon. Initial studies have shown that cinnamon significantly lowers blood sugar