Curated paper 1 - Jin Yoo

 Diabetes, a chronic metabolic disorder, results from the body’s inability to regulate glucose levels effectively. Glucose, the primary energy source for cells, plays a critical role in bodily functions, much like amino acids do in protein synthesis. However, with the rise of modern, high-sugar diets, we are experiencing a surge in metabolic diseases, especially type 2 diabetes (T2D). While conventional treatments exist, there is growing interest in exploring alternative approaches, such as Ayurveda, to manage these conditions.

Ayurveda, an ancient Indian medical system, emphasizes the interconnectedness of the body, mind, and environment. Rooted in natural treatments, Ayurveda offers holistic strategies, such as lifestyle modifications, nutritional adjustments, and herbal medications, many of which have been used for centuries to treat metabolic disorders. While skepticism around Ayurvedic practices persists, particularly due to concerns about their scientific grounding, recent studies suggest that certain Ayurvedic treatments might complement conventional medicine in managing chronic diseases like diabetes (Farooqui et al., 2018).  

The body’s glucose regulation system is delicate and easily disrupted by poor dietary choices and sedentary lifestyles. Overconsumption of sugar leads to insulin resistance, a hallmark of T2D. In this condition, the body’s cells become less responsive to insulin, preventing the efficient transport of glucose from the bloodstream into cells. This results in elevated blood glucose levels, which, if left unchecked, can cause a range of complications, including neuropathy, nephropathy, and cardiovascular diseases (Rippe & Angelopoulos, 2016). Since diets play a crucial role in treatment of diabetes, Ayurvedic treatment has potential to lower the risk of diseases which is followed by diabetes. 

Diabetes has significant socioeconomic impacts as well. In the United States alone, the direct and indirect costs associated with the disease exceed $966 billion annually (Elflein, 2024). Globally, diabetes affects more than 400 million individuals, with projections indicating that number could rise to over 600 million by 2040 (Bommer et al., 2018). While lifestyle changes can mitigate the progression of diabetes, genetic factors also play a role. Research has uncovered several gene mutations associated with T2D, which further complicates the disease’s management. Therefore, diabetes is not an individual problem anymore but it is also a worldwide health problem that impacts on economic. 

Ayurveda offers an intriguing approach to managing metabolic diseases by focusing on balancing the body’s doshas-Vata, Pitta, and Kapha-which are believed to govern physiological functions, including metabolism (Gupta, 2024). According to Ayurvedic principles, diabetes, particularly Madhumeha (diabetes mellitus), is primarily a Kapha disorder, characterized by an imbalance of digestion that leads to sluggish metabolism and malfunction of glycemic control which is the homeostasis of blood sugar levels (Singh et al., 2022). Ayurvedic practitioners prescribe lifestyle changes, herbal remedies, and dietary modifications to restore this balance and enhance the body’s natural ability to regulate glucose levels. (Modak et al., 2007). Herbs like bitter gourd, fenugreek, and turmeric, commonly used in Ayurvedic treatments, have shown promise in managing blood sugar levels. Herbs are naturally-found materials that contain many kinds of chemical materials. A key reason for the focus on naturally-found treatments in Ayurveda is that herbal remedies typically fewer side effects and, more importantly, are less costly (Modak et al., 2007). Recent studies reveal that these herbs can reduce glucose absorption in the intestines and improve insulin sensitivity (Modak et al, 2007). These findings align with the modern understanding of diabetes management, where reducing sugar intake and improving the body's response to insulin are key strategies. Despite the rising interest in alternative treatments, conventional medicine (CM) remains the cornerstone of diabetes management, relying heavily on pharmaceutical drugs like insulin and metformin. However, Ayurveda’s holistic approach is gaining attention, especially in chronic conditions where conventional treatments may not fully address the complexity of the disease. For instance, studies on the integration of Ayurvedic treatments in metabolic disorders show promising results, with patients experiencing improvements in insulin sensitivity and reductions in blood sugar levels (Gordon et al., 2019). 

In South Korea, a similar trend is emerging with Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), which is gaining acceptance alongside CM. While skepticism persists, particularly among younger generations, older adults are increasingly opting for TKM to treat chronic conditions, including metabolic disorders. Like Ayurveda, TKM offers a holistic approach that complements conventional treatments, focusing on restoring balance in the body (Park et al., 2021). Both Ayurveda and conventional medicine have their merits in treating diabetes. While CM offers evidence-based interventions, Ayurveda provides a broader, mind-body approach, which emphasizes prevention and long-term balance. My personal experience with traditional treatments, including a successful encounter with Traditional Korean Medicine, has broadened my perspective. While I initially favored conventional science-based treatments, my exposure to alternative methods has made me more open to exploring the potential of these holistic approaches, especially in managing chronic diseases like diabetes.

In conclusion, while modern medical practices have made significant strides in managing diabetes, integrating traditional systems like Ayurveda offers a promising avenue for more holistic care. Both approaches emphasize lifestyle adjustments and long-term prevention, but Ayurveda also adds an element of natural harmony, focusing on balancing the body's energies. As research continues to explore the effectiveness of these treatments, there is an increasing need to bridge the gap between traditional and conventional medicine, offering patients a more comprehensive approach to health. As we move forward in understanding the complexities of diabetes and metabolic health, the exploration of these diverse healing systems opens the door for more innovative approaches to care. The integration of traditional and modern practices presents an exciting frontier, one that holds the potential to revolutionize the management of chronic diseases.

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