Is CBD Oil Good For Diabetes?

Original publish date: 4th March 2022

Post updated: 18th March 2024

Studies show that about 10% of Americans are living with diabetes. Although medication and lifestyle changes usually help stabilize blood glucose levels, many diabetes patients have started considering the use of CBD (cannabidiol) as an alternative treatment option.

CBD, a part of marijuana (cannabis) has received a lot of attention in recent years. As the legal status of marijuana changes in most parts of the world, CBD has transitioned from a criminalized/illegal substance to being considered a miracle drug.

CBD Oil for DiabetesCBD oil supplements, drinks, lotions, and foods can be found in pharmacies and stores across the United States and worldwide. Even so, it is essential to keep in mind that researchers have not yet fully understood the effects of cannabidiol on the human body and so far CBD oil has not yet been approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration).

Can CBD oil help diabetes

However, some research indicates that CBD oil could help regulate blood sugar, boost cardiovascular health, and reduce anxiety and stress, all of which are very important for diabetes patients. In fact, some studies show that CBD oil could help prevent diabetes or delay its onset.

One of the main reasons why studies on the effects of CBD are limited is that legal human trials with cannabidiol only started in 2015. Therefore, research is still preliminary and there’s a lot to be learned.

What is CBD?

CBD is one of the non-psychoactive chemical compounds found in cannabis/marijuana.

What is CBD oil?

CBD oil is one of the most popular forms of CBD. It is produced by mixing CBD into oils such as coconut oil to form a tincture. CBD oil can be applied to the body or taken orally. It is essential to understand the concentration of various forms of CBD tincture, and whether they are safe to be ingested orally.

Other forms of CBD include edibles, capsules, and sprays.

Does CBD oil have any benefits for diabetes?

Studies show that CBD has therapeutic effects on the human brain. However, it does not cause the psychoactive effects or hallucinations commonly associated with the use of cannabis. Therefore, CBD has a huge potential for various therapeutic uses.

However, before the health benefits of CBD can be verified by medical and scientific communities, there is a need for more long-term and more thorough research on its effects on the human brain and body.

There are strong indications that CBD oil has potential health benefits for diabetes. For instance, the human endocannabinoid system which helps regulate energy use and food intake are usually inactive in type 2 diabetes patients and people who are overweight. CBD oil acts on the endocannabinoid receptors, which is the main root of its potential therapeutic applications.

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Insulin resistance and obesity

Type 2 diabetes is the most common type of diabetes and it is closely connected with being obese/overweight.

CBD oil diabetesCBD oil and weight gain in Diabetics

CBD oil has shown some potential in fighting insulin resistance and weight gain, both of which increase the risk of developing diabetes.

CBD oil for Diabetes

According to a 2020 medical review, CBD oil affects several factors that can contribute to type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and insulin resistance. These chiefly include the potential to alter glucose metabolism and reduce inflammation.

In turn, this helps reduce the signs and symptoms of type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome.

Blood sugar control

According to a 2016 clinical study that examined blood glucose levels when fasting, CBD when combined with THC-based compounds, helped diabetes patients better control their blood glucose levels.

The study shows that CBD alone decreased resistin (a hormone that contributes to insulin resistance) and increased insulinotropic peptide (a glucose-dependent hormone that stimulates the release of insulin).

This is a clear indication that CBD could help with hormonal imbalances that have been shown to contribute to type 2 diabetes.

Nerve pain

Diabetic neuropathy, also known as nerve damage, is one of the common complications of diabetes. Some of the symptoms include burning sensations and pain, especially in the feet and hands.

A recent animal study on rats shows that CBD oil can speed up the development of nervous tissue and nerves possibly reducing nerve pain.

Stress and anxiety management

Managing diabetes can cause anxiety and stress in some patients and this can aggravate the symptoms of the illness.

What is the relationship between stress and diabetes?

When stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol are released in the body, they stimulate the production of glucagon, which has been shown to lead to high blood sugar levels.

Therefore, managing stress and anxiety can help improve the physical symptoms of type 2 diabetes. Studies indicate that CBD oil can have a positive impact on the symptoms of stress and anxiety, especially for diabetes patients whose blood sugar levels are hard to control as a result of the hormonal effects of anxiety and stress.

Other health conditions linked to diabetes

Most diabetes patients have other diabetes-related conditions as well and preliminary studies show that CBD oil may help alleviate the symptoms of these health conditions. These health conditions include:

  • Insomnia: As many as % of type 2 diabetes patients suffer from insomnia and CBD has been shown to be effective in helping treat insomnia. This can be highly beneficial because improving sleep helps control blood sugar levels and reduces the risk of complications from type 2 diabetes.
  • Inflammation and chronic pain: Studies show that CBD can help reduce inflammation and treat chronic pain, both of which greatly compromise the quality of life for diabetes patients.
  • Blood pressure: CBD helps reduce blood pressure, which in turn reduces the risk of diabetes-related cardiovascular disease.

Does CBD oil have any side effects?

Due to the limited research on CBD oil, scientists have not yet fully understood the side effects of CBD. However, some of the side effects reported by users include:

  • Irritability
  • Fatigue
  • Nausea

However, studies have established that CBD is well-tolerated by most people.

The bottom-line

CBD oil can cause other notable side effects such as diarrhea, which some diabetes patients experience regularly. Therefore, despite the potential health benefits of CBD oil for diabetes it is critical to consult your diabetes healthcare team about whether CBD oil is safe for your specific condition and what you should do if it gets worse.

CBD oil can also have interactions with prescription and OTC (over-the-counter) drugs. You should not underestimate the potential risk of CBD oil, especially if you are currently taking other supplements or medications.

CBD Oil Health Benefits

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Some Common FAQ About Diabetes.

Can I Reverse Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is often a progressive disease that is preceded by a long period of elevated blood sugar. In fact, for most people who are finally diagnosed with diabetes, medical experts believe they have been on the path for 5 to 10 years. Therefore, most of them have already lost about half of their insulin-making capability.

Although it’s impossible to undo your lifestyle of the last decade, you can take some steps to stop the progression or even reverse diabetes. Recent studies show that losing weight can delay the onset of pre-diabetes or delay its progression to type 2 diabetes. The keys to prevention and management of diabetes or preventing its complications include a healthy diet, regular exercise, and creating an environment that fosters general healthy living.

Can you reverse type 2 diabetesFor instance, losing a few pounds earlier on when your glucose levels start rising can greatly improve your blood sugar levels, blood pressure, triglycerides, cholesterol levels, and more.

Reverse diabetes diet plan

It is vital for people to get to their ideal weight especially if they have type 2  diabetes or pre-diabetes.  Robert Huizenga, MD, an associate professor at the University of California says that people should be athletically fit and have no excess fat.

A diet of healthy eating and 90 minutes of exercise 6 days a week is the best way to manage type 2 diabetes even without medications.

For most people, this is easier said than done. However, with perseverance, commitment, and a positive attitude, you can achieve your ideal, healthy weight. You can set small and achievable goals first and add new goals gradually as you succeed in meeting the small goals.

Research studies recommend setting a small goal of losing about 5 to 7% of the weight you started with in order to improve your health and lower blood sugar, with the intention of keeping the pounds off.

What are the Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes?

The symptoms of type 2 diabetes usually develop very slowly and this is the main reason why most people may have it and not know it. Here are some of the symptoms you should look for:

  • Increased hunger: Since the body does not have enough insulin to move glucose into the cells, your organs and muscles will be depleted of energy thus triggering intense hunger.
  • Frequent urination and increased thirst: When excess sugar builds up in your bloodstream, your tissues lose excess fluid to the bloodstream. This is the main reason why you tend to feel thirsty and may urinate and drink more than usual.
  • Weight loss: Although most people with diabetes tend to eat more than usual in order to relieve intense hunger, they may also lose weight. Since the body does not have the ability to metabolize sugar, it uses the alternative energy stored in fat and muscles. You end up losing calories and excess sugar in your urine.
  • Blurred vision: In case your blood sugar level is too high the fluid in the lenses of your eyes may also be pulled off into the bloodstream. This affects your ability to see or focus.
  • Fatigue: Since your cells are deprived of glucose, you become easily irritable and tired.
  • Some darkened areas on the skin: If you have type 2 diabetes, you may have some patches of velvety, dark skin in the creases and folds of your body. This is quite common in the neck and armpits. This condition is known as acanthosis nigricans and in most cases, it’s a sign of insulin resistance.
  • Frequent infections and slow-healing sores: Your ability to resist infections and heal wounds may be affected.
  • Tingling and numbness of the feet and hands
  • Impotence

Are there any Forms of Natural Treatment for Diabetes Available Today?

  1. Figleaves

Due to its anti-diabetic properties, diabetics need less insulin when using fig leaf extract for treating diabetes. The extract should be taken first thing in the morning preferably with breakfast. Alternatively, your fig leaves can be boiled in freshly boiled water and taken as a tea.

  1. Black seed

Natural remedy diabetes black seed oilNigella Sativa, also known as black seed has been used for over 2000 years to treat numerous diseases including diabetes, pancreatic cancers, acne, and more.

Black seed oil diabetes

Diabetics should take 6 teaspoons of black seed oil per day for 7 days. Take black seed oil three different times. Then take 4 teaspoons per day for 4 days; 2 in the morning and 2 in the evening. Follow by taking two teaspoons per day for two days.

  1. Fenugreek

Take 10 to 30 grams of fenugreek with each meal per day. However, you should not take fenugreek at the same time as other medications. Wait at least one hour before taking it. Do not take more than 90 grams because it might cause nausea and stomach upset. Common side effects of fenugreek include gas and diarrhea.

  1. Cinnamon

A study done by Khan and associates in 2003 reported cinnamon as a good natural treatment for diabetes. 60 diabetic people were tested and a third of them were given a placebo. The results were quite impressive with glucose down about 18% and the overall health of the group increased. The results also showed reduced levels of triglycerides and LDL cholesterol. Taking about a teaspoon of cinnamon per day is critical to softening your cell membranes. Cinnamon reduces your need for insulin because it actually mimics insulin.

  1. Grape seed extract

Grape seed exact performed quite well in studies conducted in Toyama, Japan, Portsmouth, UK, and Romania in 2009. Grape seed extract is great for setting up strong defensive mechanisms against the reactive oxygen that is produced by hyperglycemic conditions and protecting the liver cells. Grape seed extract comes in 50 to 100 mg capsules but, do not take more than 300 mg per day.

  1. Olive oil

The University of Jaen has been researching the consumption of olive oil and preventing diabetes. They found that an olive oil-rich diet can help prevent diabetes. Olive oil can help reduce your blood sugar levels including triglycerides and LDL. Reducing your cholesterol levels can help prevent various diseases including atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.

It’s essential to keep in mind that, the prevention of diabetes actually begins with proper diet and weight management. The Mediterranean diet has proven to be very beneficial in the prevention and treatment of diabetes by using coconut oil and olive oil, which are rich in monounsaturated fats instead of saturated fats. Drink about ¼ cup of the oil. You can also mix one teaspoon of olive oil and one tablespoon of lecithin especially if you prefer using lecithin.

  1. Bitter melon

Bitter melon contains insulin-like properties which is the main reason why it works well with diabetes treatment. The insulin-like properties help in lowering glucose levels in blood and urine. Juice bitter melon and take it on an empty stomach first thing in the morning. You can also grind the seeds into a powder and eat them or use the bitter melon to make tea.

  1. Vitamin C

Studies show that using between 100mg and 600mg of vitamin C can help normalize your blood glucose levels in as little as 30 days. Diabetics have complications of too much sugar in the body which can eventually lead to nerve damage and eye problems.

How Can You Create the Right Diet for Diabetes?

The term “diabetes diet” in this context refers to the food that is eaten every day and is not simply a short-term solution to lose weight or treat diabetes temporarily. You should choose a diabetes diet plan you will adhere to for the rest of your life. Therefore, fad diets that eliminate several food groups are not recommended because they are unsustainable.

The best diabetes diet should be customized to your needs without focusing only on cutting calories but also on making the most of the calories you consume.

A healthy diet should be rich in vegetables, fruits, low-fat dairy, heart-healthy oils, and whole grains. It should also encourage lowering your salt intake and healthy preparation of food such as broiling, roasting, grilling meats, and baking. Another essential element of a healthy diabetes diet is limiting saturated fats. Daily calories from saturated fats should be less than 7%. Also, you should avoid trans fats and limit your daily calorie intake to less than 200 milligrams.

Stick to a low-carbohydrate diet and choose lean proteins to keep you energized and full without too much fat. Some of the good sources of protein include poultry without skin and lean fish. If you prefer pork or beef, choose lean cuts, trim off the fat and avoid frying food. Stick to low-fat or non-fat dairy options for yogurt, cheese, milk, and other dairy products.

What are the Recommendations for a Healthy Diabetes Diet?

  • Eat 3 meals per day, and be sure to include healthy snacks as needed to help regulate blood glucose.
  • Eat appropriate proportions
  • Maintain a regular meal schedule by eating at the same time each day.
  • Sip low-calorie beverages or water throughout the day.
  • Eat more vegetables

What are some of the plant foods used for the Treatment of Diabetes?

There are numerous plans that can be used for diabetes treatment, especially for people with type 2 diabetes. These plants include:

  • Buckwheatdiabetes diet
  • Coffee
  • Cloves
  • Brewer’s yeast
  • Sage
  • Peas
  • Broccoli
  • Okra

Most of these foods are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber which are vital for good health in diabetics. Some new studies show that plant foods such as coffee, cloves, and cinnamon may actually help insulin and aid in fighting inflammation.

Cinnamon extracts improve glucose metabolism which triggers insulin release and cholesterol metabolism. On the other hand, clove leaf extracts improve insulin function and also lower LDL, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and glucose. Recent studies show that some compounds in coffee reduce the risk of developing diabetes by increasing insulin sensitivity.

What do High and Low GI mean?

The GI ranks food according to the rate at which they are broken down by the body to form glucose.

High GI foods are quickly converted into glucose. Examples of foods with a glycemic index include potatoes, oranges, sweetened drinks, and white bread.

A low Glycemic Index diet mainly incorporates foods that are slowly converted into energy and typical examples include beans, milk, berries, leafy vegetables, and whole-grain bread.

Since low GI foods are broken down more slowly, they don’t cause spies (sharp increases) in your blood sugar level compared to foods with a high glycemic index. Therefore, they are a good option for maintaining stable blood sugar levels.

Foods with a low glycemic index leave you feeling full over a longer period of time.

Can a low Glycemic Index (GI) Diet Prevent Diabetes?

A low GI diet can be effective for diabetics if they apply portion control to foods with high carbohydrate content. Foods with high glycemic index are broken down quickly causing blood sugar levels to rise very sharply. This is particularly dangerous for people with diabetes as the ability to control blood sugar levels is greatly reduced or almost non-existent.

What are the Advantages of a Low GI Diet?

  • Their nutritional value is higher compared to high GI food equivalents
  • Reduce the demand for insulin immediately after eating
  • Provide energy for prolonged periods and it’s unlikely that you’ll feel hungry before it’s time for the next meal
  • You can eat a varied diet
  • It’s easier to follow food choices with glycemic index charts

Do low GI diets have any disadvantages?

The main disadvantage of a low GI diet for diabetics comes if the carbohydrate content of a meal is too high for the body to cope with. For instance, bran-based cereal is typically low GI but it contains a high carbohydrate value.

The carbohydrate content of a large portion of bran-based cereal could be too high for people with diabetes which may cause their blood sugar levels to rise very high.

However, this should not be a problem if people with diabetes apply if portion control to foods that have a high carbohydrate content.

What low GI foods are suitable for people with diabetes?

  • Whole grains
  • Unsweetened dairy products
  • Lean meats
  • Non-starchy vegetables
  • Legumes

Care must be taken with vegetables and fruits because their GI value can vary significantly.

  • Low GI fruits include grape fruit, kiwi fruit, plums and berries.  Diabetes Diet
  • High GI fruits include mangoes, pears, oranges, bananas, raisins and dates.
  • Low GI vegetables include cabbage, peppers, cauliflower and lettuce.
  • High GI vegetables include potatoes, sweet corn, beetroots, parsnips and carrots.

What is the Atkins diet?

The Atkins Diet is a low carbohydrate diet plan that was created by Robert C. Atkins in 1972. The diet emphasizes fats and protein while restricting carbohydrates. It has several phases for losing weight starting with a low carbohydrate diet.

Can the Atkins diet help control diabetes?

The Atkins Diet limits carbohydrates in order to change the metabolism of the body from metabolizing glucose for energy to converting fat for energy.

According to Dr. Atkins, the main reason why most low-fat diets fail is that dieters feel hungry and the Atkins diet is much easier because dieters generally feel satisfied when they eat adequate fiber, protein, and fat. Since the Atkins Diet emphasizes avoiding carbohydrates, it can certainly help diabetes.

Is alcohol bad for diabetics?

Alcohol and Diabetes

Beyond all the safety and health concerns about alcohol, people with diabetes need to be very cautious. The action of some diabetes medications and insulin is to lower blood sugar. Therefore, diabetics should not drink on an empty stomach or when their blood glucose is low.

Keep in mind that there is a risk of developing hypoglycemia up to 24 hours after drinking. Therefore, if you have diabetes and want to drink alcohol, you should always check your blood sugar level before drinking, eat before drinking and keep an eye on what and how much you are drinking.

You should also check your blood sugar level before retiring to bed and make sure it is within the safe level (100 to 140 mg/dl).

The symptoms of hyperglycemia and too much alcohol can be very similar; dizziness, disorientation, and sleepiness. Always wear a diabetes ID if you are hypoglycemic to ensure that nobody will confuse hypoglycemia for too much alcohol. This will ensure that you get proper assistance and treatment.

Here’s to controlling your diabetes!

Meal planning for diabetes made easy

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Latest News on Broccoli Sprouts for Diabetes

Increased levels of inflammation and oxidative stress have been linked to the increased risk of diabetes and diabetes-related complications. When the body is unable to fight disease-causing radicals such as reactive oxygen species, it becomes overwhelmed leading to oxidative stress. Cruciferous vegetables like:

  • cauliflower,
  • broccoli sprouts,
  • Brussels sprouts and
  • cabbage

contain active plant chemicals commonly known as glucosinolates in high quantities. The body metabolizes these glucosinolates into isothiocyanates which are very powerful anti-carcinogens and antioxidants. This helps reduce oxidative stress which is associated with insulin resistance and diabetes.

How can broccoli sprouts benefit Diabetes patients?

Broccoli sprouts are the richest source of a chemo-protective compound known as glucoraphanin (SGS-Sulforaphane glucosinolate). Glucoraphanin protects your body against cancer and also improves the body’s ability to excrete or eliminate toxic substances. However, it is important to understand that broccoli sprouts contain up to 50 times more glucoraphanin than mature broccoli. Broccoli sprouts for Diabetes, broccoli benefits

This is mainly because the plant develops its nutrients in a concentrated way when it is young. These detoxifying enzymes and antioxidants help protect your tissues and cells. Glucosinolate glucoraphanin improves kidney function and blood pressure.

On the other hand, it boosts the cell enzymes that protect cells from cancer-causing chemicals and molecular damage. Sulforaphane is a mebolite of glucosinolate glucoraphanin which normalizes DNA methylation. This is a very important part of the normal cell function that regulates gene expression and activates more than 200 genes.

Moreover, Sulforaphane restores the immune system as you age and also increases the liver’s ability to get rid of free radicals and carcinogenic compounds.

Therefore, besides its antimicrobial and anti-diabetic properties sulforaphane also slows the growth of tumors by killing cancer stem cells. The phytochemical sulforaphane is one of the most powerful compounds in broccoli sprouts. It stimulates the production of vital enzymes that reduce the number of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) that cause cell damage.

This is very beneficial especially for diabetics primarily because they face a high ser risk (up to 5 times) of developing various cardiovascular diseases such as stroke and heart attacks. Since sulforaphane reduces the amount of Reactive Oxygen Species by up to 73%, the risk of developing heart attacks and strokes which are linked to cell damage and damaged blood vessels is greatly reduced.

What is the best way to eat broccoli sprouts?

In order to enjoy more broccoli health benefits, opt for broccoli sprouts because they allow the body to extract more minerals, vitamins, essential fats and amino acids from the rest of the diet. Just 0.17 ounces (5 grams) of broccoli sprouts have a concentration of glucoraphanin equal to that contained in 5.2 ounces (150 grams) of mature broccoli.

The way you cook broccoli sprouts can also alter the nutrient content. If you microwave it, the beneficial compounds will be reduced by 74% to 90%. However, steaming or eating your broccoli raw is a good way to ensure that its phytonutrients are kept intact.

Broccoli Sprouts for Diabetes, Powder Form

Real Sprouts V’s Sprout Powder

Yes, fresh broccoli sprouts are great to eat and of course, still very beneficial for your health, especially for diabetics. However keep in mind, you may get tired of eating soo many Broccoli sprouts a day and they do go bad if not eaten after a few days.

best supplements to lower blood sugarAnother option for getting your good dose of sulforaphane, is by taking it in powder form.

Benefits – Broccoli sprout powder can keep for months – doesn’t need refrigeration, but obviously, it would last longer again. Convenient when traveling – just sprinkle a spoonful in with your juice or smoothie of a morning.

HINT – Always remember if you are adding the powder to your cooking, always do so just prior to serving to ensure you are getting the maximum health benefits.

Adding organically-grown whole foods in your diet is one of the most effective ways of achieving optimum health and preventing disease.

Therefore broccoli sprouts for diabetes patients especially, should definitely be part of the pre-diabetic (metabolic syndrome) and diabetic diet.

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Benefits of Yoga for Diabetes

A large number of people suffering from diabetes are practicing regular yoga training in an effort to improve overall quality of life and keep their condition under control. Many health experts believe yoga can help lower blood pressure, enhance mobility, reduce levels of stress and improve overall wellbeing.

It is also well known that besides improving diabetes, yoga can also protect against other related complications such as heart disease. Moreover, people who undergo yoga training on a regular basis experience significant improvements in their physical and mental health.

The Benefits of Regular Yoga training include:

  • Reduced depression and anxietyBenefits of Yoga for diabetes
  • Relief from various chronic illnesses
  • Improved strength, flexibility and posture
  • Enhanced energy levels and concentration
  • Better sleep
  • Improved immunity, circulation and digestion.
  • Feelings of wellbeing
  • Enhanced efficiency of endocrine, neurological and respiratory organs.

How Does Yoga Treat Diabetes or Prevent it from Developing?

  1. Exercising the muscles

Yoga increases the uptake of glucose by muscular cells which helps improve circulation, lower blood glucose levels and reduce the risk of heart diseases.

  1. Rejuvenating pancreatic cells

Yoga postures stretch the pancreas and aid relaxation which stimulates the production of beta cells which are responsible for producing insulin.

  1. Promoting weight loss

Regular yoga practice can improve weight control and help you reduce weight both of which are vital for protecting against various chronic conditions such as heart disease, cancer and type II diabetes, as well as the management of diabetes.

  1. Improving your mental attitude (makes you feel good)

Practicing yoga on a regular basis can help improve mental focus and create the right approach to dealing with conditions such as diabetes. Yoga stretches your muscles, helps you breathe more deeply, shifts your attitude and helps you feel better.

Yoga eases the body into recovery mode and helps to release chronic stress. Remember, breathing is both involuntary and voluntary. This basically means that we can choose to change the way we breathe but we don’t stop breathing if we stop paying attention to it. This is why most people who practice yoga consider it a vehicle between our body and mind. Calming your breath can help you calm your mind (it helps you shift from a fight or flight pattern to a more balanced pattern which facilitates complex reasoning).

Stress management (controlling mental stress) is one of the key factors of treatment of diabetes. Blood sugar levels increase when we’re stressed and high blood glucose levels increase the chances of developing various related complications including heart disease. This is one of the main reasons why it’s particularly important to practice yoga, controlled breathing techniques and other mindfulness-based techniques to invoke a relaxation response.

This relaxation response helps regulate stress hormones such as cortisol which increase blood sugar levels and blood pressure. It is essential to understand that both play a key role in the development of type II diabetes and other related complications.

Yoga is a cost-effective and promising option in the prevention and treatment of diabetes. Data from several clinical studies suggest that mind-body therapies such as yoga can improve blood glucose control and reduce stress-related hyperglycemia. However, it is essential to consult with your physician and diabetes healthcare team before starting yoga classes.

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Goji Berry Juice Benefits for Diabetes

How can Drinking Goji Berry Juice Help Diabetics?

Goji Berries have been extensively used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for more than 2000 years. Goji berries are tender, orange-red, edible berries that belong to the Lycium barbarum and Lyceum chinese species. These tiny berries are cultivated in various parts of Asia including the Himalayan regions of Mongolia, Nepal Tibet and parts of China. Goji berries must be picked very carefully and dried at low temperatures to preserve their nutritional value. However, goji berries can also be blended into juice, eaten raw, or cooked.

Nutrients in Goji Berry Juice

benefits of goji juice for diabetesFat-free, low in calories, rich in antioxidants and a good source of fiber, some of the benefits of goji juice include the ability to help you manage your weight effectively,  experience better digestion and the ability to help you fight various diseases.  The Chinese use goji berries to treat health problems such as cancer, diabetes, hyperlipidemis, thrombosis, immune system disorders, male infertility, hepatitis, and age-related eye disorders. Their anti-oxidant and anti-ageing properties are also highly rated and these barriers can be used to nourish the blood or as tonic for the lungs, liver and kidneys. Goji berries are also rich in amino acids, beta carotene, polysaccharides, zeaxanthin, lutein, lycopene, flavonoids, vitamins A, C, E, B6, and B1, trace minerals, iron, calcium, zinc, potassium and selenium.

Goji Berry Juice Benefits for Diabetics

  • Goji Berries and Eyesight

It is very important for diabetics to stay on top of their eye health. This is particularly because high glucose levels can easily destroy the small blood vessels that are responsible for supplying oxygen-rich blood and nutrients to the eyes. Goji juice is rich in a compound known as Taurine which helps protect the eyes from diabetes-related vision loss. On the other hand, Zeaxanthin, an antioxidant in goji berries may be very helpful in protecting the retina by absorbing high-energy blue light.

  • Goji Berries are Rich in Antioxidants

Antioxidants help prevent damage of our cells by polluting molecules and free radicals in our bodies. Gogi berries contain the highest level of antioxidants in the superfood world with up to 10 times more antioxidants than blueberries. These antioxidants prevent the development of atherosclerosis (blood vessel disease), cancer, and other diabetes-related conditions.

  • Goji Berries and Blood Glucose

Goji juice is rich in polysaccharides which improve insulin response and help balance blood sugar. They also contain betaine which prevents vascular damage and fatty liver disease which are often seen in people with diabetes. Moreover, antioxidants protect the heart from disease by lowering blood cholesterol levels. Gogi juice has a high fiber content which reduces the risk of high cholesterol and cardiac arrest.

According to MedlinePlus, clinical studies on the benefits of this superfood are lacking. On the other hand, although goji berries offer exceptional health benefits, they have not been proven safe in pregnancy. Therefore, you should consult your doctor before eating goji berries or drinking goji juice while pregnant.

Other goji berry juice diabetes benefits include decreasing blood sugar levels and lowering blood pressure. Be aware though, if you already have low blood sugar levels or low blood pressure, this superfood could worsen the symptoms.

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