What are some natural ways I can control my diabetes?

Kuli asked...

My hga1c is always less than 6 but sugar fasting is between 110 to 135. Currently I am not taking any medication for diabetes. I do have foot neuropathy. I am very particular with my diet and exercise. Let me have your recommendation for diet and natural treatment. Currently I am taking medicines for blood pressure and enlarged prostate.

Expert Answer

Beth Reardon, M.S., R.D., L.D.N., is Caring.com senior food and nutrition editor and the director of integrative nutrition at Duke Integrative Medicine. As a practitioner of integrative nutrition, Reardon takes a holistic approach to wellness, recognizing that the foundation for optimal health and healing begins with a health-promoting diet. As a practitioner of integrative nutrition, Reardon takes a holistic approach to wellness, recognizing that the foundation for optimal health and healing begins with a health-promoting diet.

I am delighted to hear that you are not on medication to control your diabetes and are seeking natural methods for control. Your elevated fasting blood sugars and signs of neuropathy (particularly if related to the diabetes) are a concern and should be further investigated by your physician to determine their cause. Elevated morning blood sugars may be the result of a drop in blood sugars during the early morning hours followed by an overcompensation by the liver to release more glucose into the blood stream. Spacing your meals evenly throughout the day, and eating a small high fat/high protein snack like some nuts before bed may help. Diet and lifestyle modification are the cornerstone of any diabetes prevention program. Achieving a healthy body weight and exercising daily are two of the most important things you can do. Lightening the load on your pancreas by avoiding quickly digested carbohydrates is essential. A whole food plant based Mediterranean type diet has been shown to be most effective in decreasing risk for chronic illness including hypertension, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Be sure to include some high quality carbohydrate, protein and healthy fat at each meal/snack. Try to achieve a fiber intake of close to 45 "“ 50 grams/day. Without knowing more about your individual eating patterns, weight, current medications and exercise habits, it is not possible to make specific recommendations. I would encourage you to work with a local nutrition expert who can guide you in making a personalized plan and offer supplement recommendations that would support your success. You can find one in your area by going to [eatright.org] (http://www.eatright.org) Good luck !