Have you seen the movie “Super Size Me”? Morgan Spurlock, the director of this film, went on a 30 day challenge to eat nothing but McDonald’s food for every meal. While it does have its crude moments, this film brought light to many hidden truths about America’s fascination with junk food.

Diabetes is a national epidemic and Type II (adult onset) diabetes is no longer restricted to adults. If you, or someone you know, has Type II diabetes, there are natural alternatives to drugs and insulin medication but you must be willing to change your lifestyle. The benefits are improved health and a better, more productive life without pain and side effects.

Note: While this article will focus on Type II diabetes, the suggestions may be beneficial to Type I diabetics as well. Please be sure to work closely with a health practitioner while implementing this program.

Americans are Overwhelmed and Undermined by Too Much Sugar Consider that more than 100 years ago, the average adult consumed 18 lbs of sugar per year. Today, average sugar consumption in the US is a staggering 176 lbs per person. Our bodies have not had time to adapt to this tremendous increase in sugar. Instead, we are getting fat, sick and dying… of diabetes, an almost wholly preventable disease.

In addition, Americans now have white bread, rice and pasta. These foods are high in simple carbohydrates which closely mimic straight sugar. Then there are fats. Saturated and transfats can also promote insulin resistance.

It’s important to note that with proper nutrition and good supplementation, diabetes is not only preventable, it is reversible.

So what can you do? Nutrition 1. Eat lots of fiber. Fiber reduces the body’s need for insulin. Most Americans eat only 11-13 grams of fiber daily. Ideal amounts are 35+ grams. Oatmeal, beans and brown rice are excellent sources of fiber. You can also supplement with bulk psyllium or psyllium capsules. 2. Eat lean meats such as poultry and fish. Avoid red meats as they can create an acidic environment in the body which will cause calcium to be pulled from the bones and sent to the pancreas which then produces less insulin. 3. Avoid processed foods and white sugars, flours, pastas, rice, etc… Eat more natural foods whenever possible.

Supplements 1. Chromium with GTF. Chromium is a trace mineral that encourages “glucose tolerance factor”. GTF carries glucose out of the blood and into the cell – overcoming insulin resistance.
2. Pancreas support combination. A healthy pancreas is important to controlling and reversing diabetes. These herbs can help to support the pancreas. Golden seal, juniper berries, garlic, white oak bark, slippery elm bark, marshmallow root, licorice, capsicum and dandelion.
3. Blood sugar combination. By controlling blood sugar, we can control how much insulin our bodies require. Use a combination that contains Gymema, an herb that may help repair damage to endocrine systems including the pancreas. It can also help decrease blood sugar levels. Fenugreek and nopal can help to combat insulin resistance.
4. Noni. Noni is often touted as a miracle for most that ails you. Unfortunately, this has given it a somewhat bad reputation. The fact is that Noni (juice from the morinda citrifolia plant) can be very beneficial in reducing inflammation, a key factor in diabetes and balancing blood sugar levels.

You can prevent or reverse diabetes. Work with someone that knows natural alternatives and find a doctor that supports your interests in natural health. Select a company with a track record of integrity when shopping for supplements. Find one that offers a full line of health supplements (not just a “one hit wonder”). Determine to make the health choices that will improve your life for many years to come.

Nicole Bandes is a Certified Herb Specialist that has worked with clients since 1999. She recommends and uses Nature’s Sunshine Products. To learn more about the recommendations discussed in this article visit Nature's Sunshine. You can also set up a phone or email conference with Nicole. Send an email to nbandes@naturallyherbs.com.

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