Diabetes is a health condition that affects how your body uses sugar, known as glucose. Sugar gives you the energy necessary to thrive, but too much in the blood for extended periods can be dangerous. Currently, there is no cure for diabetes, meaning those diagnosed must learn to manage it. When well managed, people can live with it for years or even their whole lives. While modern medicine and the pharmaceutical industry has plenty of solutions to help control diabetes, some people prefer natural methods that are less likely to cause side effects. If you’re considering incorporating holistic diabetes treatments, here are a few options that are supported by research to effectively help you manage or even reverse the severity.
Understanding is a crucial part of holistic diabetes care
Managing diabetes is very important for a long, healthy life. While there’s no cure, people can control their blood sugar and avoid serious problems by being proactive. Holistic diabetes care methods like eating well, exercising and using natural remedies can support better health when used along with medical care. Always talk to a doctor before trying new treatments, even natural ones. With the right tools and support, people with diabetes can thrive and live well.
There are two main types of diabetes:
Type 1: Type 1 diabetes typically starts in childhood or the teen years. It’s caused by the immune system attacking the pancreas, a critical organ that makes the insulin hormone. Insulin helps move sugar from the blood into the body’s cells – without it, sugar levels build up in the blood.
Type 2: Type 2 diabetes is more common in adults, however more younger people are getting it too. With this form, the body doesn’t use insulin well, or may not make enough of it. Type 2 is more common than Type 1 and is often linked to lifestyle issues such as being overweight and not exercising enough, or having a family history of diabetes.
How diabetes affects the body
When diabetes is not treated, it’s known as uncontrolled diabetes and can create a domino effect of health problems over time. High blood sugar can increase the risk of developing heart disease, blindness, kidney failure and foot problems. In severe cases, people may require amputations or even face death.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 2022 statistics put diabetes as the eighth leading cause of death in the United States. While there’s currently no cure for diabetes, it can be managed. Checking blood sugar levels often, taking medicine if prescribed, eating healthy and staying active are some of the most effective options.
Diabetes is more common within the Black community
Black Americans are more likely to develop diabetes than white Americans. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) points out that as of 2021, 12.1% of Black adults were diagnosed with diabetes. This statistic is often related to health care access, income and education as well as food choices and stress.
Food and medical deserts can severely limit access to healthy and nutritious meals or regular health care. Chronic stress from discrimination or financial struggles also makes it harder to stay healthy. Genetics may also play a role, but lifestyle and social factors are major reasons for the higher risk.
Tips for integrating holistic diabetes care
Holistic means treating the whole person rather than focusing solely on the disease. This can include natural and lifestyle-based ways to support the body. These methods don’t replace medicine but can help manage blood sugar and a doctor’s care. Better still, research supports several holistic methods to help control blood sugar and, in some cases, even reverse more severe forms of diabetes.
Eat a balanced diet with whole foods
Eating the right foods can help lower blood sugar. Focus on whole grains, vegetables, fruits, lean protein and healthy fats. A recent study published in The Journal of Nutrition found that a Mediterranean-style diet (rich in olive oil, nuts and vegetables) can lower A1C levels, which is a marker of long-term blood sugar control.
Exercise regularly
Moving your body helps insulin work better. Even walking for 30 minutes a day can lower blood sugar. According to the ADA, regular exercise improves insulin sensitivity and lowers blood sugar for up to 24 hours after a workout.
Try cinnamon and berberine
Natural supplements can support blood sugar control. Cinnamon has been shown in several studies to reduce fasting blood glucose. Berberine, found in certain plants, works similarly to the diabetes drug metformin. Both naturally occurring supplements are backed by research published in the February 2025 edition of European Journal of Nutrition. Before starting a supplement regimen, speak with a doctor to confirm that they won’t conflict with any prescribed medications.
Consider traditional medicines
Some traditional remedies have been studied by scientists. Bitter melon, used in Asia and Africa, may help lower blood sugar. A 2021 study published in the Evidence Based Complement of Alternative Medicine found it can improve glucose tolerance. Fenugreek seeds, which are frequently used in Indian cooking, also help reduce blood sugar, according to a 2023 study in the International Journal of Molecular Science.
Practice stress-relieving techniques
Stress can raise blood sugar. Mind-body practices like yoga, meditation and deep breathing can reduce stress and help the body use insulin better. A 2018 study in Diabetology & Metabolic Syndrome journal showed that people who practiced stress management techniques had lower blood sugar levels and better mood.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Thai herb for diabetes?
The Thai herb, Gymnema sylvestre, is known for helping with diabetes. It’s called “gurmar” in India, which means “sugar destroyer.” A 2019 study published in Pharmacognosy Journal showed it can reduce sugar absorption and even help regenerate insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
What emotion is linked to diabetes?
In traditional Chinese medicine and some modern studies, worry and stress are linked to diabetes. Stress raises the hormone cortisol, which increases blood sugar. Chronic stress and anxiety can make diabetes worse, so emotional health is important in diabetes care.
