• Should I take medications for diabetes?

I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Should I take medications for diabetes?

4 Answers

  • Family Practitioner
  • Orlando, FL

Follow doctor's advice. If you are overweight you can try diet and exercise which can help diabetes remission.

  • Hospice and Palliative Care Specialist
  • Little Rock, AR

This depends. Sometimes if your Hemaglobin A1c is quite elevated, you may need to start medication, but can come off if you are able to get control. If your A1c is only mildly elevated, then you may be able to make some lifestyle changes now without adding medication. This is a hard, honest discussion you need to have with your provider to decide what is going to be best for you. Things you must consider are your family history, your ability to make lifestyle changes (job committments, family commitments, finances, etc.) - but the sooner you get control, the better!

  • Family Practitioner
  • Gilbert, AZ


In Ayurveda, diabetes is referred to as Madhumeha, classified under the broader category of Prameha (urinary disorders). It is primarily caused by an imbalance of Kapha dosha, but Vata and Pitta doshas may also play a role. Ayurvedic treatment for diabetes focuses on balancing the doshas, detoxifying the body, managing blood sugar levels, and improving overall health through herbal remedies, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications.

1. Herbal Remedies
Gudmar (Gymnema sylvestre):

Known as "sugar destroyer," it helps reduce blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity.
Consume Gudmar powder or capsules under guidance.
Neem (Azadirachta indica):

Purifies blood and supports healthy sugar metabolism.
Drink neem leaf juice or take it as a supplement.
Karela (Bitter Gourd):

Helps reduce blood glucose by improving pancreatic function.
Consume karela juice on an empty stomach daily.
Methi (Fenugreek):

Improves glucose tolerance and lowers blood sugar.
Soak 1-2 teaspoons of fenugreek seeds in water overnight and drink the water in the morning.
Amalaki (Indian Gooseberry):

Rich in vitamin C, it improves pancreatic function and enhances immunity.
Take Amalaki powder or fresh juice daily.
Turmeric (Haridra):

Reduces inflammation and improves insulin sensitivity.
Mix 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric with warm water or milk and consume daily.
Vijaysar (Pterocarpus marsupium):

Traditionally used to control diabetes.
Soak Vijaysar wood pieces in water overnight and drink the water in the morning.
Triphala:

Detoxifies the body and balances doshas.
Take Triphala powder with warm water before bed.

2. Panchakarma Therapies
Vamana (Therapeutic Emesis):

Helps cleanse the body and reduce Kapha dosha.
Should be done under professional supervision.
Virechana (Therapeutic Purgation):

Cleanses the Pitta dosha and detoxifies the liver, aiding in better sugar metabolism.
Basti (Medicated Enema):

Balances Vata dosha and supports overall health.
Abhyanga (Oil Massage):
Improves circulation and balances doshas.

3. Diet and Nutrition
Foods to Include:

Bitter foods like karela, fenugreek, neem, and turmeric.
Whole grains like barley and millet.
Green leafy vegetables, gourds, and legumes.
Spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander, and cinnamon.
Foods to Avoid:

Sugary and processed foods.
Excess salt and fried foods.
Refined carbohydrates like white rice and bread.
Dairy products that increase Kapha, such as full-fat milk and cheese.

4. Lifestyle Recommendations
Daily Routine:
Follow a consistent daily routine to stabilize doshas.
Avoid overeating and maintain a regular eating schedule.

Exercise:
Regular physical activity is essential for managing blood sugar.
Engage in walking, yoga, or light cardio for 30 minutes daily.

Yoga and Pranayama:

Yoga Poses:
Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend)
Dhanurasana (Bow Pose)
Halasana (Plow Pose)
Balasana (Child’s Pose)
Pranayama (Breath Work):

Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing)
Kapalabhati (Skull-Shining Breath) to stimulate metabolism.

Stress Management:
Practice meditation and mindfulness to reduce stress, which can negatively affect blood sugar levels.

5. Ayurvedic Formulations
Chandraprabha Vati:
A traditional Ayurvedic tablet for urinary disorders and diabetes management.
Shilajit:
Enhances strength and balances blood sugar.
Nishamalaki Churna:
A combination of turmeric and Amla powder that helps regulate sugar levels.
Triphala Churna:
Supports digestion and detoxification.

6. Home Remedies
Cinnamon Tea:
Boil 1 teaspoon of cinnamon powder in water and drink it daily.
Aloe Vera and Turmeric Mix:
Combine 1 teaspoon of Aloe Vera gel with a pinch of turmeric and consume before meals.

PRECAUTIONS
REGULARLY MONITOR BLOOD SUGAR LEVELS.
CONSULT AN AYURVEDIC PRACTITIONER TO CUSTOMIZE TREATMENT BASED ON YOUR CONSTITUTION (PRAKRITI) AND THE SEVERITY OF DIABETES.
COMBINE AYURVEDIC TREATMENTS WITH MODERN MEDICAL CARE IF NECESSARY, ESPECIALLY FOR INSULIN-DEPENDENT DIABETES.
BY INTEGRATING AYURVEDIC PRACTICES WITH A BALANCED LIFESTYLE, YOU CAN EFFECTIVELY MANAGE DIABETES AND IMPROVE OVERALL WELL-BEING.

  • ,
  • Georgia

If diagnosed with diabetes type 2, medications aren't always necessary in the beginning if it can be controlled with diet and exercise. Having a good support system, such as family and friends who can help is also a big factor and keeping a close eye on your glucose. If your glucose isn't controlled with diet and exercise, then yes, medications would be necessary, which would possibly be started with an oral medication before injections of insulin. But most importantly would be to have regular checkups with your doctor to keep your glucose under control.

Copyrights © 2021 by TODAY'S NURSE. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy