There are many natural herbs, vitamins, and supplements that can be used in the treatment of diabetes - here are eight of the more popular ones.
Garlic Garlic has been shown in many studies to lower blood sugar by stimulating the pancreas to produce more insulin. It is believed that the anti-oxidant, allicin, which is found in garlic is responsible for these benefits.
Cinnamon Research suggests that as little as 1 gram of cinnamon a day may lower both blood glucose levels and cholesterol levels.
Bitter Melon Both the fruit and the seeds in bitter melon are known to decrease blood sugar levels in diabetics. It is believed that bitter melon increases blood glucose uptake into the liver and muscles.
Chromium Chromium is also thought to help diabetics control blood sugar levels however evidence is mixed. Chromium is found in cheese, peanuts, apples, oranges, pineapple, most leafy vegetables, mushrooms, nuts, and grains.
Zinc Low zinc levels has been found to impair the production of insulin by beta cells in the pancreas. Zinc is found in grains, nuts, dairy food, pumpkin seeds, red meat, poultry, and seafood.
Thiamine Thiamine or Vitamin B1 is known to prevent many of the common side-effects of diabetes. It helps reduce neuropathy (nerve damage), kidney damage, atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and damage to the eyes. Rich sources of thiamine include green peas, pork, beef, spinach, nuts, bananas, and whole-grains.
Biotin Studies have shown that supplementation with biotin, also known as Vitamin B7 or H, can significantly reduce a persons fasting blood glucose levels. Rich sources of biotin include eggs, leafy green vegetables, whole grains, and organ meats such as liver and kidneys.
