Can you prevent and treat diabetes?

Diabetes mellitus (DM) discovered as early as 700–200 BC, is the most common endocrine chronic disorder caused by inherited and/or acquired deficiency in production of insulin by the pancreas, or by the ineffectiveness of the insulin produced.
Diabetes is a major leading cause of death in the world. Diabetes affects a large population in the world including India and it is growing phenomenally.

Most people with diabetes have health problems such as high blood pressure and cholesterol that increase one's risk of heart disease and stroke. In fact 65% of diabetics die from it.

Diabetes occurs either when the pancreas stops producing insulin or the body is unable to use the insulin it produces. Both result in glucose, the body's fuel, not being absorbed by the cells. Insulin is needed to be present and working for this absorption to occur.

In India, there are estimated 77 million people above the age of 18 years are suffering from diabetes (type 2) and nearly 25 million are prediabetics (at a higher risk of developing diabetes in near future). More than 50% of people are unaware of their diabetic status which leads to health complications if not detected and treated early. 

There are two types of Diabetes:

Type 1 diabetes

Type 1 is insulin dependent and diabetics must inject themselves with insulin daily to control blood sugar levels. Type 1's pancreas is not producing insulin or producing insufficient insulin, the result of which is the body is unable to process glucose (sugar). This causes a high level of glucose in the blood, and low absorption of the vital energy-producing glucose by the tissues.

Though this form of diabetes accounts for 5 to 10% of all cases, the incidence is rapidly increasing in specific regions. People with IDDM must take daily insulin injections to keep healthy.

Blood sugar levels can swing wildly between Hyperglycaemia and Hypoglycaemia.

1. a) Hyperglycaemia - when there is an abnormally large amount of sugar in the blood
2. b) Hypoglycaemia - when there is an abnormally small amount of sugar in the blood.

Type 1 usually first appears under the age of 35, particularly in adolescents and develops rapidly.

Cause of type 1diabetes

The cause is complex and unclear, but may involve genetics, viruses, diet, chemicals and environmental factors. Type 1 diabetes was once called juvenile diabetes because it is usually diagnosed in childhood or early adulthood.

Type 2 diabetes

Type 2diabetes or non-insulin-dependent diabetes, is the most common form. People can develop Type 2 at any age and is where the pancreas does not make enough insulin and the body does not use it properly due to insulin resistance.

This type of disease accounts for 90 to 95% of all diabetic patients. Treatment of Type 2 diabetes is complicated by several factors inherent to the disease process, typically, insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, impaired insulin secretion, reduced insulin-mediated glucose uptake and utilization

Cause of type 2 diabetes

The exact cause of type 2 diabetes is unknown. However, it is associated with certain factors, including obesity, lack of exercise, age, a family history of diabetes, ethnicity and a history of gestational diabetes.

Complications from diabetes can lead to blindness, kidney failure, heart disease, nerve damage, and limb amputations. Current medications can have serious side-effects including nausea, diarrhea, skin rash, respiratory infections, liver damage, hypertension, neuropathy and headaches.

Diabetes, known as Prameha in Ayurveda, is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by elevated levels of blood glucose (sugar) due to insufficient insulin production or ineffective utilization of insulin by the body. Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine, offers holistic approaches to manage diabetes by focusing on lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, herbal remedies, and stress management techniques.

Symptoms:

1. Frequent Urination (Polyuria): Increased frequency of urination, especially at night.
2. Excessive Thirst (Polydipsia): Persistent feeling of thirst even after drinking fluids.
3. Increased Hunger (Polyphagia): Constant craving for food, despite regular meals.
4. Fatigue and Weakness: Feeling tired and lethargic, especially after meals.
5. Unexplained Weight Loss: Despite eating well, individuals may experience significant weight loss.
6. Blurry Vision: Blurred or distorted vision due to fluctuations in blood sugar levels.
7. Slow Healing of Wounds: Wounds and cuts take longer to heal in diabetic individuals.
8. Numbness and Tingling Sensations: Peripheral neuropathy may cause tingling or numbness in the hands and feet.

Complications:

1. Cardiovascular Disease: Diabetes increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.
2. Kidney Damage (Nephropathy): Long-term diabetes can damage the kidneys, leading to kidney failure.
3. Nerve Damage (Neuropathy): Diabetic neuropathy can cause numbness, tingling, and pain in the extremities.
4. Eye Problems (Retinopathy): Diabetes can cause damage to the blood vessels in the retina, leading to vision problems and even blindness.
5. Foot Complications: Poor circulation and nerve damage can lead to foot ulcers and infections, sometimes resulting in amputation.

Mimansha Herbals' Treatment Kit

Diabsha Capsule: It is a research product also clinically proven by Govt. & Private Hospitals. It’s a combination of herbs that has been proven to be synergistically beneficial to a diabetic patient. This combination is based on six active scientifically proven herbs for their action in diabetes. These are specially formulated for persons to take care of sugar control needs. They are rich in iron, calcium, protein to help in resilience to sugar fluctuations and help to maintain good health and provide stamina. High fiber content helps to avoid constipation.

It contains Moringa and other Ayurvedic, herbal ingredients (Centella asiatica, Coccinia indica, Terminalia arjuna, Murraya koenigii, Adiantum capillus-veneris). These are dietary and nutrition supplement capsules. Moringa contains Beta-sitosterol also normalizes blood sugar, enhances the immune system, and acts as a supreme anti-inflammatory agent.

Additional Herbal Supplements

Neem Capsule: According to Ayurveda, Neem is revered for its potent antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. While neem has been studied for its potential benefits in managing diabetes, it's important to note that research is still ongoing, and neem should be used as a complementary therapy alongside conventional diabetes management under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Neem capsules, often derived from neem leaf extracts or neem powder, are commonly used as a dietary supplement for various health purposes, including diabetes management. Here are some potential benefits of neem capsules for diabetes:

1. Blood Sugar Regulation: Neem may help regulate blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity and promoting glucose uptake by cells. Some studies suggest that neem compounds may mimic the action of insulin, thus aiding in glucose metabolism.
2. Antioxidant Activity: Neem contains potent antioxidants like flavonoids, polyphenols, and vitamin C, which help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation associated with diabetes complications.
3. Immune Modulation: Neem is known for its immunomodulatory effects, which may help regulate immune responses and prevent autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.
4. Lipid Profile Improvement: Neem may help improve lipid profiles by reducing LDL cholesterol levels and triglycerides, thus reducing the risk of cardiovascular complications in individuals with diabetes.
5. Anti-inflammatory Effects: Chronic inflammation plays a significant role in the development of insulin resistance and diabetes complications. Neem's anti-inflammatory properties may help alleviate inflammation and protect against diabetic complications.

Jamun Tablet: Jamun, also known as Syzygium cumini or Indian blackberry, is a fruit native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. In Ayurveda, various parts of the jamun tree, including its fruit, seeds, and bark, have been traditionally used for their medicinal properties, particularly in managing diabetes. Jamun tablets, derived from jamun fruit extracts and powder, are commonly used as a natural remedy for diabetes management. Here are some potential benefits of jamun tablets for diabetes:

1. Blood Sugar Regulation: Jamun contains bioactive compounds like jamboline, ellagic acid, and anthocyanins, which may help regulate blood sugar levels by increasing insulin sensitivity and enhancing glucose uptake by cells. Jamboline, in particular, is believed to inhibit the conversion of starch into sugar and may help lower blood glucose levels.
2. Antioxidant Activity: Jamun is rich in antioxidants, including vitamin C, anthocyanins, and flavonoids, which help neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress associated with diabetes complications.
3. Pancreatic Health: Some studies suggest that jamun may have a protective effect on pancreatic beta cells, which are responsible for producing insulin. By preserving beta cell function and reducing oxidative damage, jamun may help maintain optimal insulin secretion.
4. Lipid Profile Improvement: Jamun may help improve lipid profiles by reducing LDL cholesterol levels and triglycerides, thus reducing the risk of cardiovascular complications in individuals with diabetes.
5. Digestive Health: Jamun is also known for its digestive properties and may help improve digestion and alleviate gastrointestinal issues commonly associated with diabetes.

 Karela Tablet: Karela, also known as bitter melon or bitter gourd, is a vegetable commonly used in Asian cuisine and traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda. It is known for its bitter taste and numerous health benefits, particularly in managing diabetes. Karela tablets, derived from bitter melon extracts or powder, are popularly used as a natural remedy for diabetes management. Here are some potential benefits of karela tablets for diabetes:

1. Blood Sugar Regulation: Karela contains bioactive compounds such as charantin, polypeptide-p, and vicine, which are believed to help regulate blood sugar levels by increasing insulin sensitivity and promoting glucose uptake by cells. These compounds may also inhibit the absorption of glucose from the intestines, leading to lower postprandial blood sugar levels.
2. Insulin Mimetic Properties: Some components of bitter melon resemble insulin and may exert insulin-like effects in the body, helping to reduce blood sugar levels.
3. Antioxidant Activity: Karela is rich in antioxidants such as flavonoids, phenolics, and vitamin C, which help neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress associated with diabetes complications.
4. Lipid Profile Improvement: Karela may help improve lipid profiles by reducing LDL cholesterol levels and triglycerides, thus reducing the risk of cardiovascular complications in individuals with diabetes.
5. Digestive Health: Karela is also known for its digestive properties and may help improve digestion, alleviate constipation, and promote overall gastrointestinal health.

Usage and Dosage

Diabsha: Initial dosage of 2 capsules twice daily, gradually reduced to 1 capsule daily for NIDDM. For IDDM, dosage increased to 2 capsules thrice daily, along with insulin therapy.

Neem Capsule- 2 capsules per day

Jamun Tablet- 1-2 tablets, twice a day.

Karela Tablet: 2 tablets per day

Ayurvedic Approach:

1. Dietary Recommendations:
   • Consume whole grains like barley, oats, and brown rice instead of refined grains.
   • Include bitter vegetables like bitter gourd, fenugreek, and kundaru in the diet.
   • Favor foods that are low in glycemic index to help regulate blood sugar levels.
   • Emphasize on freshly cooked, warm, and easily digestible meals.
   • Drink herbal teas like Mimansha hansraj and Lamnika herbal teas helps manage blood sugar levels.
2. Herbal Remedies:
   • Ayurvedic herbs like Gymnema sylvestre, bitter melon (Momordica charantia), fenugreek, and Indian gooseberry (amla) are known to help manage diabetes.
   • Triphala, a combination of three fruits, is beneficial for improving digestion and metabolism.
3. Lifestyle Modifications:
   • Engage in regular physical activity like walking, yoga, or swimming to improve insulin sensitivity and control weight.
   • Practice stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and adequate sleep.
4. Avoid:
   • Processed and sugary foods like sweets, pastries, and soft drinks.
   • Refined carbohydrates and white flour products.
   • Excessive consumption of fatty and fried foods.
   • Alcohol and smoking, as they can worsen insulin resistance and lead to complications.
5. Precautions:
   • Monitor blood sugar levels regularly and follow-up with healthcare providers as advised.
   • Maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise regimen.
   • Take prescribed medications and herbal supplements consistently under the guidance of an Ayurvedic practitioner.
   • Be mindful of foot care to prevent infections and complications related to diabetic neuropathy.

By integrating these Ayurvedic principles into daily life, individuals can effectively manage diabetes and reduce the risk of associated complications, leading to improved overall health and well-being. However, it's crucial to consult with qualified Ayurvedic practitioners or healthcare professionals for personalized guidance and treatment plans.