What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic medical condition in which the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels. There are two main types of diabetes:
- Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. As a result, people with type 1 diabetes must take insulin injections or use an insulin pump to survive.
- Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic disorder in which the body becomes resistant to insulin or does not produce enough insulin to regulate blood sugar levels effectively. Type 2 diabetes is often associated with lifestyle factors such as obesity, lack of exercise, and poor diet, and it can sometimes be managed with lifestyle changes, medication, or insulin therapy.
Both types of diabetes can lead to various health problems if left untreated, including heart disease, nerve damage, kidney damage, and vision problems. People with diabetes must work closely with their healthcare providers to manage their blood sugar levels and prevent complications.
Controlling diabetes
In the first place, diabetes is a debilitating condition. Furthermore, a chronic disease increases blood sugar levels beyond the ordinary. This happens due to the improper use of glucose by the cells. In other words, it is the faulty functioning of the pancreas, which does not allow the insulin to do its job and causes an abnormal rise in blood sugar levels.
Another critical point is that the effective management of diabetes is an essential component of any treatment plan. Uncontrolled blood sugar levels can make matters worse for older people. In addition, they are paving the way for other secondary conditions to step in. But, by taking charge of the disease and learning about alternative treatment methods. It can make a huge impact.
Medications and Natural Remedies
While medications can do their job, there are specific natural remedies that you should consider. For controlling diabetes in older adults. Before understanding the various natural remedies. It is necessary that we first understand the various lifestyle changes. That we need to abide by in elderly diabetics.
Various lifestyle changes that older people need to make
Opt for a “clean carbohydrate” diet.
The conventional diet plan for diabetics. It should include more carbohydrates from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. This is best for keeping blood sugar levels under control. Yet, even as per the alternative diet plan. Carbohydrates are good. But if they get them from grains, they are not considered healthy enough—alternative nutrition recommendations based on the theory. Grains contain certain irritating phytochemicals like gluten, which is not beneficial for people with diabetes, as it can upset their gut health. Thus, for diabetics, it is best to adhere to processed carbohydrates. They are also referred to as clean carbs. A clean carbohydrate diet should be free from all forms of wheat.
Citrus fruits are diabetic-friendly.
A diet containing a bountiful supply of antioxidants. It can help prevent two of the most common complications of diabetes, such as free radical damage and inflammation. Citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, berries, and grapefruits contain potent antioxidants that prevent and fight against radical damage. Citrus fruits also help in improving insulin sensitivity. Check out this article on nutrition can reduce the need for most medications.
Say goodbye to stress.
The diagnosis of diabetes, indeed, puts individuals under great stress. But little did we all know that focus is one of the significant factors. That aggravates and is the main culprit behind the development of diabetes. So, adopting strategies to manage stress would be a good idea. In addition, both physical, as well as mental stress can cause stress hormones to release, which calls for a sudden rise in blood sugar levels.
Keep yourself well hydrated.
Drinking plenty of fluids is necessary to keep blood sugar levels under check. Research has shown drinking at least 10 – 12 glasses of water daily. It can have a positive impact on blood sugar levels under the conditions of dehydration. In addition, the liver increases glucose production, causing a rise in blood sugar levels. Therefore, drinking enough quantity of fluids. It can help keep blood sugar levels under control.
Eat more fibrous foods.
Eating more fibrous foods is an effective way to manage diabetes. High-fiber foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes can help regulate blood sugar levels by slowing down the absorption of carbohydrates and reducing the need for insulin. Fiber also helps promote a feeling of fullness, which can aid in weight management, a critical factor in managing type 2 diabetes. In addition, a high-fiber diet can improve digestive health and reduce the risk of other health problems such as heart disease and certain cancers. It’s important to gradually increase fiber intake to avoid digestive discomfort and to drink plenty of water to help the body process the additional fiber. Incorporating more fibrous foods into the diet is a simple yet effective way to manage diabetes and promote overall health.
Avoid soda in all forms.
Avoiding soda in all forms can have a significant positive impact on managing diabetes. Sugary drinks such as soda, fruit juice, and energy drinks can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels and increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Even diet soda containing artificial sweeteners can have adverse health effects and contribute to insulin resistance, a precursor to diabetes. Furthermore, soda consumption has been linked to weight gain and obesity, a significant risk factor for diabetes. Instead of soda, water, unsweetened tea or coffee, or other low-sugar beverages are recommended. Consuming whole fruits instead of fruit juice can also be a healthier option, as the fiber in the fruit can help regulate blood sugar levels. By avoiding soda in all forms, individuals with diabetes can better manage their blood sugar levels and reduce their risk of developing complications associated with diabetes.
Exercise regularly
Research has stated that. Regular exercise helps to keep blood sugar levels under check. Exercising daily for about an hour causes the body to use energy from stored glucose. Thus promoting weight loss. Moreover, when the glucose stores are complete, the body uses glucose from the bloodstream, which controls blood glucose levels.
Suppose older adults with diabetes can adopt these lifestyle changes. Then diabetes can be manageable and secondary complications can also be avoidable in addition to these lifestyle changes. Furthermore, if specific natural remedies are also practiced, diabetes can be well controlled.
Effective natural remedies for controlling diabetes
Basil leaves
Also known as tulsi, they have been found to have potential benefits for individuals with diabetes. It contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, often elevated in individuals with diabetes. Some studies have also suggested that basil leaves may positively affect blood sugar levels by enhancing insulin secretion and sensitivity. Additionally, basil leaves may have cholesterol-lowering effects, essential for individuals with diabetes who are at an increased risk of heart disease. While more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of basil leaves for diabetes, incorporating fresh or dried basil into the diet as a spice or garnish may be a simple and tasty way to add potential health benefits to meals.
Cinnamon
It is a popular spice that has been shown to have potential benefits for individuals with diabetes. Cinnamon contains compounds that may help improve insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism, which can help regulate blood sugar levels. Additionally, cinnamon has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may be beneficial for reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, two factors that can contribute to the development of diabetes-related complications. Some studies have suggested that consuming cinnamon may also help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels, reducing the risk of heart disease, a significant complication of diabetes. While cinnamon should not be used as a replacement for diabetes medication, incorporating cinnamon into the diet as a spice or supplement may be a simple and tasty way to improve blood sugar control and overall health.
Flax seeds
Flax seeds are a rich source of fiber and alpha-linolenic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid that has been found to have potential benefits for individuals with diabetes. They contain soluble and insoluble fiber, which can help slow down the absorption of carbohydrates and reduce blood sugar spikes after meals. In addition, the alpha-linolenic acid in flax seeds has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial for reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, two factors that are often elevated in individuals with diabetes. Additionally, some studies have suggested that consuming flax seeds may improve insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism, which can help regulate blood sugar levels. However, it’s important to note that flax seeds should be consumed in moderation and ground before eating to maximize their health benefits. Adding a tablespoon of ground flax seeds to meals or snacks can be a simple and easy way to incorporate this superfood into the diet and potentially improve blood sugar control and overall health.
Drumstick leaves
Also known as Moringa leaves, they have been found to have potential benefits for individuals with diabetes. Drumstick leaves are a rich source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, two factors that are often elevated in individuals with diabetes. In addition, some studies have suggested that consuming drumstick leaves may help regulate blood sugar levels by reducing insulin resistance and improving glucose metabolism. Additionally, drumstick leaves may have cholesterol-lowering effects, which can reduce the risk of heart disease, a significant complication of diabetes. While more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of drumstick leaves for diabetes, incorporating fresh or dried drumstick leaves into the diet as a vegetable or tea may be a simple and tasty way to add potential health benefits to meals.
Neem leaves
Also known as Indian lilac, they have been found to have potential benefits for individuals with diabetes. Neem leaves contain compounds that may help regulate blood sugar levels by enhancing insulin sensitivity and reducing insulin resistance. Additionally, neem leaves may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial for reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, two factors that are often elevated in individuals with diabetes. Some studies have also suggested that consuming neem leaves may help improve lipid profile, including reducing total cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which can reduce the risk of heart disease, a significant complication of diabetes. While more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of neem leaves for diabetes, incorporating fresh or dried neem leaves into the diet as a tea or supplement may be a simple and natural way to improve blood sugar control and overall health. However, individuals should consult their healthcare provider before using neem leaves as a supplement, as they may interact with certain medications.
Bitter gourd
Bitter gourd, or bitter melon, is a vegetable commonly used in traditional medicine to help manage diabetes. It contains compounds that can help regulate blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing insulin resistance. Bitter gourd is also a low-calorie vegetable that can help with weight management, essential for people with diabetes. Additionally, it is rich in vitamins and antioxidants that can help protect against complications of diabetes, such as nerve damage and cardiovascular disease. However, it’s important to note that bitter gourd should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment or medication a healthcare professional prescribes.
Indian blackberry
Indian blackberry, or jamun, is a fruit commonly used in traditional medicine to help manage diabetes. It contains compounds such as jambolana, which has been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin release and improving insulin sensitivity. Additionally, Indian blackberry is a low glycemic index fruit that can help prevent blood sugar spikes and stabilize glucose levels. The fruit is also a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect against complications of diabetes, such as nerve damage and kidney disease.
Bilberry leaves
Bilberry leaves are rich in anthocyanin. They stimulate the production of several proteins. In addition, they are in fat metabolism and the transportation of glucose. Due to this unique property, these leaves can control blood sugar levels. You can crush 100 grams of bilberry leaves that can be taken on an empty stomach every morning.
Diabetes can not hurt you if you manage your symptoms. And these natural remedies are sure to help older adults manage their blood sugar levels with proper medications, lifestyle changes, and these natural remedies. You can live a fulfilling life with diabetes.
Caregiving Consulting
Caregiving can be challenging, frustrating, and highly stressful!
Most caregivers can’t afford the luxury of stepping away from their daily responsibilities. Taking time out to regroup does not exist in their world.
But it doesn’t have to be that way.
- Find peace in caregiving by tapping into resilience, joy, and radical forgiveness.
- Would you love to give care with expertise and confidence?
- Are you managing your loved one’s daily activities in an organized and structured way?
- You follow a proven caregiving system that provides for your loved one’s needs while giving you peace of mind.
I will tailor the sessions to your specific needs to:
- Explore strategies
- Determine your immediate needs by providing focus and clarity.
- Develop a wellness plan to boost your caregiving journey.
The Ultimate Caregiving Expert Consulting offers tools, services, and resources to give you a fresh, objective perspective on caregiving. This will help enhance your caregiving journey if you feel confined, overwhelmed, or hopeless in the role of caregiver.
Additional Education
Education in caregiving refers to acquiring the knowledge, skills, and understanding necessary to provide care for individuals who require assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, eating, and grooming. This education can be obtained through formal programs or on-the-job training and experience. Education in caregiving aims to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to provide high-quality, compassionate care for those in need.
Caregiving can be challenging, frustrating, and highly stressful!
But . . . it doesn’t have to be that way.
Imagine . . .
- Giving care with expertise and confidence
- Managing your loved one’s daily activities in an organized and structured way
- You follow a proven caregiving system that provides for your loved one’s needs while giving you peace of mind.
If the above sounds like what you need and have been searching for desperately . . . Then you need to enroll in The Ultimate Secrets to Caregiving with LESS Stress and MORE peace course!
Conclusion
Remember, diabetes can put you at significant risk of severe health problems. A diagnosis and appropriate treatment can significantly reduce this risk. Following the above tips and suggestions can keep diabetes under control. It can be challenging to attend to your loved one with diabetes, but it’s not impossible. With the proper knowledge, you can do this. Remember to care for yourself and keep your business going while caregiving. I’m here to assist you on this journey; schedule your planning session with me so we can look at how to keep your life and your business running smoothly.
