Insufficient pancreatic insulin preventing the utilization of glucose and resulting in high blood glucose and simultaneously low glucose absorption by body tissues. Symptoms include frequent urination and thirst, weight loss, cramps, urinary tract infections among others. Complications of diabetes are atherosclerosis, kidney failure, damage to the peripheral nerves, scarring of the retina.
Diet:
Complex carbohydrates, legumes, high-fiber foods, onions, garlic and olive oil. Follow a low-glycemic diet which includes foods that can help reduce swings of blood glucose levels, such as guar gum and oat bran. Foods like onions, cabbage, and garlic also play a role in lowering blood glucose levels. Avoid processed foods, sugar, white flour, and too much fat. Replace saturated fats with monounsaturated oils like olive oil.
Nutrients:
Chromium, magnesium, alpha lipoic acid, zinc, L-carnitine, L-glutamine, glucomannan, vitamin E (to improve metabolic control), evening primrose oil (good for diabetic neuropathy and retinopathy).
Herbs:
Gymnena sylvestre, coleus forskholii, fenugreek, ginseng, dandelion.