The blood sugar of individuals with diabetes may alter significantly with diet. After meals, the blood sugar level will rise and after you had a night’s rest, it will usually be low in the morning. High dose of insulin or oral diabetes medications also cause the blood sugar to be too low and vice versa. Another factor that affects blood sugar level is illness. Illness or infection exerts physical stress on the body which increases the insulin requirements. Thus, it is important to carefully monitor blood sugar levels when you are suffering from any illness. On the other hand, physical activity can lower blood sugar since glucose is used to supply the body’s increasing needs. However, one is advised to consider the type of physical activities because vigorous exercise can actually bring down your blood sugar to dangerous levels.

Gymnema, fenugreek, bitter melon and holy basil are herbs traditionally used lower blood sugar level in diabetic individuals. Gymnema contains gymnemic acid which helps to regenerate beta cells and enhance the production of insulin. Fenugreek and holy basil helps to reduce blood sugar while bitter melon helps to lower glucose absorption in the intestinal tract.

Diet plays a vital role in our health and wellness and this is an undeniable fact especially for diabetes patients. Adopt a high fibre diet that includes oat bran, brown rice and wholemeal bread. Reduce the intake of saturated fats such as red meat, poultry skin and fried foods. Frequent small meals instead of three large ones are recommended.

You may be experiencing blood sugar imbalance, a condition in which the body does not handle glucose effectively. Poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, excess body weight and stress are some of the factors that cause blood sugar imbalance. Common symptoms include fatigue, cravings for sweet foods, increased appetite, and drowsiness that occurs shortly after meals.

Dietary and lifestyle modifications are necessary to maintain a healthy blood sugar level. Your diet should be low in carbohydrate and moderate in protein and fat. Increase the consumption of vegetables and fruits that are rich in fibre. Processed food and refined carbohydrates such as sweets, desserts and noodles should be avoided.

Certain herbs are known to aid in blood sugar regulation. Gymnema contains gymnemic acid which helps to regenerate the insulin-secreting beta cells in the pancreas and enhances the production of insulin. Fenugreek is found to increase glucose utilisation and slow down carbohydrate absorption. Holy basil improves glucose utilisation while bitter melon helps lower glucose absorption. These beneficial herbs are suitable for individuals with high blood sugar and it is best taken together for synergistic effect.

Diabetic neuropathy refers to a group of nerve disorders caused by diabetes. Nerve damage occurs in people with diabetes because their blood sugar level is higher than normal. Over time, high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels which decrease the blood flow and affect the nerves. Diabetic patients also tend to produce more free radicals in the body which may exacerbate the condition.
 
Individuals with diabetes can develop nerve problems at any time but the risk increases with age and prolonged diabetes. Symptoms are often minor at the beginning and it depends on the type of neuropathy and which nerves are affected. The first few symptoms are often numbness, tingling, burning sensation or pain in the feet.

The key step is to control and maintain healthy blood glucose levels. Gymnema, fenugreek, holy basil and bitter melon are herbs that help regulate blood sugar level. These beneficial herbs work best when combined and you can obtain it from your nearest pharmacy.

Another nutrient of value is alpha lipoic acid (ALA). Clinical studies have shown that ALA significantly reduces the burning, sharp pain and numbness of neuropathy. This vitamin-like compound is a powerful antioxidant and it plays a role in blood sugar control. Alpha lipoic acid is able to enhance insulin function, reduce insulin resistance and alleviate diabetic neuropathy. Effective dose of 100-600mg daily would be beneficial.