In type 1 diabetes which mostly afflicts children, the body does not manufacture sufficient insulin. In type 2 diabetes or Non-insulin dependent diabetes, there is enough insulin production - however it cannot be absorbed by cells causing the sugar to build up in the blood. This sugar combines with oxygen to form unstable free radicals that eventually lead to various complications. Type 2 diabetes can be controlled with the right diet and lifestyle.

A diet that is beneficial for diabetics needs to control high blood sugar, low blood sugar, hunger and also be heart-healthy. A natural food diet that includes high-fiber and low sugar is most beneficial. The aim is to avoid sugars and simple carbohydrates as these get processed quickly and add to blood sugar.

A healthy diabetic diet will consist of most calories (40-60%) coming from carbohydrates, 20% from protein, and 20-30% from fat

• Fiber - Beans, legumes, nuts, vegetables, whole fruits, whole wheat, oat bran, brown rice provide fiber and complex carbohydrates. Avoid fruit juice, white bread and all processed sugars
• Vitamins - Vitamin C helps to lower a sugar called sorbitol while Vitamin E is known to reduce plasma glucose levels as well as modulating cholesterol levels. Vitamins B6, B12 are also useful in improving glucose absorption. Niacin or Vitamin B3 should not be taken in large doses as it can have an adverse effect in sugar tolerance.
• Herbs - Gymnema is a very well known herb that helps control sugar levels. It maitains optimum sugar levels, destroys sugar cravings, lowers cholesterol levels and also helps in reducing weight through appetite suppression. Even the NIH has recognized the benefits of Gymnema in serum and cholesterol control. Bitter melon or karela is another herb that helps in glycemic control.
• Proteins - Proteins from fish and soy and plant sources such as spirulina are useful in treating diabetes.

Video on how diabetes can be managed with the right diet



You may also be interested in the following articles:

Diabetes - What it is, Symptoms and Risk Factors
Information on Diabetes types, what to watch out for and herbal remedies

How Gymnema works to control diabetes, blood sugar, cholesterol and obesity

Foods that help in diabetes control

Diabetes and Beta Cell Regeneration : How herbs can prevent depletion of beta cells and promote growth for diabetes treatment

Blood Sugar Control With Herbs - Herbal Remedies That Lower and Maintain Glucose Levels

Reduce Diabetes Risk - Even 1 healthy habit can improve chances of not getting diabetes

References:

The Medical Advisor - The complete guide to Alternative & Conventional Treatments

Himalaya Herbals Company



Products for blood sugar control

Karela / Bitter Melon
Maintains normal blood sugar levels, Improves Metabolism

Neem
Maintains normal blood glucose levels, detoxifies

Gymnema
Neutralizes sugar cravings, improves sugar metabolism