Healing Diabetes Naturally: Root Causes, Symptoms, and Holistic Solutions

Naturopathic Treatment for Diabetes

Naturopathic approaches to diabetes focus on addressing the root causes of the disease, improving insulin sensitivity, and managing symptoms through natural methods. Below is an overview of causes, symptoms, outcomes, and treatment strategies:

Causes of Diabetes

1. Type 1 Diabetes (Autoimmune):

• The immune system attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.

• Triggered by genetic factors or environmental triggers (e.g., infections).

2. Type 2 Diabetes (Lifestyle-Related):

• Insulin resistance due to obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and poor diet.

• High levels of chronic stress and inflammation.

• Genetic predisposition.

3. Gestational Diabetes:

• Hormonal changes during pregnancy.

• Risk factors include obesity, family history, and preexisting insulin resistance.

Symptoms of Diabetes

• Increased thirst and frequent urination.

• Fatigue and blurred vision.

• Slow healing of wounds.

• Unintended weight loss (Type 1).

• Tingling or numbness in extremities (Type 2).

Expected Outcomes with Naturopathic Treatment

• Improved blood sugar control.

• Reduction in insulin resistance.

• Prevention or management of complications (neuropathy, retinopathy, etc.).

• Enhanced overall quality of life.

Naturopathic Treatment Strategies

1. Dietary Interventions:

• Low Glycemic Index Foods: Reduce spikes in blood sugar (e.g., leafy greens, berries, lentils).

• Anti-inflammatory Diet: Include omega-3s, turmeric, and ginger.

• Avoid Refined Carbohydrates: Minimize sugar and processed foods.

• Intermittent Fasting (if appropriate): Helps improve insulin sensitivity.

2. Herbal and Nutritional Supplements:

• Gymnema Sylvestre: Known to reduce sugar cravings and improve glucose uptake.

• Berberine: Helps regulate blood sugar levels similar to metformin.

• Chromium Picolinate: Enhances insulin action.

• Alpha-Lipoic Acid: Supports nerve health and reduces oxidative stress.

3. Exercise and Physical Activity:

• Regular aerobic and resistance training to improve insulin sensitivity.

• Yoga and tai chi to reduce stress and improve metabolic health.

4. Stress Management:

• Practices like meditation, mindfulness, and deep breathing to lower cortisol levels, which can impact blood sugar.

5. Hydrotherapy and Detoxification:

• Alternating hot and cold treatments to improve circulation and metabolic processes.

• Supportive liver detoxification with herbs like milk thistle.

6. Acupuncture:

• Shown to improve blood sugar regulation and insulin sensitivity.

7. Lifestyle Adjustments:

• Sleep: Prioritise 7-8 hours of restorative sleep.

• Smoking and Alcohol: Avoid these as they can worsen blood sugar control.

Monitoring and Collaboration

• Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels and HbA1c.

• Collaborate with conventional healthcare providers if insulin or medications are required.

Written by Karyn Campbell, Naturopath and Herbalist at Hābu Health. Karyn helps women 40+ navigate perimenopause with natural, evidence-based care that restores balance to hormones, gut, and mind.