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 a growing interest in exploring alternative approaches, such as Ayurveda, to manage these conditions.
Ayurveda, an ancient Indian medial system, emphasizes the interconnectedness of the body, mind, and environment. Rooted in natural treatments, ayurveda offers holistic strategies, including lifestyle modifications, nutritional adjustments, and herbal medications, many of which have been used for centuries to treat metabolic disorders. Although 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 can be 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 diet plays a crucial role in the treatment of diabetes, Ayurvedic treatment has the potential to lower the risk of diseases associated with diabetes. Not only are the choices of what to eat important but also avoiding certain substances is even more critical. For example, recreational drugs and alcohol should be avoided, whether one has diabetes or not. While significant research on the effects of drugs on diabetes is limited due to their illegality in most countries, experts indicate that these substances can disorient individuals, making it difficult for diabetic patients to keep track of time. This can impact essential activities such as insulin administration. For instance, my grandmother had diabetes and had to inject insulin at specific times and closely monitor what and how much she ate.
Alcohol, on the other hand, is more accessible and has a significant impact on diabetes management. Alcohol can affect blood sugar because some alcoholic beverages contain carbohydrates that rapidly raise blood glucose levels. Additionally, when alcohol is present in the liver, it halts its normal function of glucose production and release into the bloodstream. The liver prioritizes breaking down alcohol, considering it a toxin. Therefore, blood glucose levels can significantly drop when alcohol is consumed.
In my personal opinion, diabetes can be especially challenging for both patients and their families. Managing the disease involves strict dietary monitoring, which can make eating out a difficult experience. When my family went out for meals, my grandmother’s dietary needs always had to be considered. I recall one occasion when she expressed a rare desire to eat cake, which I knew was full of sugar and carbohydrates-substances harmful to diabetic patients. My initial response was firm, and I felt cruel for denying her request. The incident left me emotional, as she seldom voiced her preferences. Furthermore, while exercise is beneficial for diabetic individuals because it improves insulin sensitivity and lowers blood sugar levels, my grandmother had a patella issue that left her mostly bedridden. While diabetes may not always have visible symptoms, it is true that it significantly restricts food choices, which is a fundamental pleasure for most people.
Beyond the health and social issues associated with diabetes, the economic burden is substantial. Diabetic patients must purchase insulin, delivery devices, and blood glucose monitors, and in the U.S., this can cost between $100 and $1,800 per month. The variation in cost is significant due to the absence of universal public health insurance and the differing policies among private insurers. In contrast, South Korea’s public healthcare system and strict drug pricing regulations result in costs that are about one-ninth of those in the U.S. Regardless of location, diabetic patients must spend money on treatment.
The socioeconomic impact of diabetes extends beyond individuals. In the Unites States alone, direct and indirect costs related to the disease exceed $996 billion annually (Elflein, 2024). Globally, diabetes affects over 400 million people, with projections indicating that number could surpass 600 million by 2040 (Bommer et al., 2018). While lifestyle changes can help slow the progression of diabetes, genetic factors also play a role. Research has identified several gene mutations associated with T2D, adding complexity to disease management. Consequently, diabetes is not just an individual issue but a worldwide health and economic challenge.
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 impaired digestion that leads to sluggish metabolism and poor glycemic control, or the maintenance of blood sugar homeostasis (Singh et al., 2022). Ayurvedic practitioners often prescribe lifestyle changes, herbal remedies, and dietary adjustments to restore balance and improve the body’s natural ability to manage glucose levels (Modak et al., 2007). Herbs such as bitter gourd, fenugreek, and turmeric, which are commonly used in Ayurvedic treatments, have shown promise in managing blood sugar levels. These naturally sourced remedies contain various bioactive compounds and generally have fewer side effects and lower costs compared to pharmaceutical drugs (Modak et al., 2007). Recent research indicates that these herbs can reduce glucose absorption in the intestines and enhance insulin sensitivity (Modak et al., 2007). This aligns with modern strategies for diabetes management, which emphasize reducing sugar intake and improving the body’s insulin response.
Despite the growing interest in alternative treatments, conventional medicine (CM) remains the foundation for diabetes management, heavily relying on pharmaceutical drugs like insulin and metformin. However, Ayurveda’s holistic approach is gaining attention, especially for chronic conditions where conventional treatments may not fully address the complexity of the disease. Studies on the integration of Ayurvedic treatments into diabetes care have shown promising results, with patients experiencing improved insulin sensitivity and lowered blood sugar levels (Gordon et al., 2019).
In South Korea, there is a similar trend with Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) gaining popularity alongside conventional medicine. although skepticism exists, particularly among younger generations, older adults increasingly turn to TKM for treating chronic conditions, including metabolic disorders. Like Ayurveda, TKM takes a holistic approach that complements conventional treatments by focusing on restoring balance within the body (Park et al., 2021). Both Ayurveda and CM have their strengths. CM provides evidence-based, targeted interventions, while Ayurveda offers a comprehensive, mind-body approach that emphasizes prevention and long-term balance. My own experiences with traditional treatments, including successful encounters with TKM, have expanded my outlook. While I initially favored conventional, science-based treatments, exposure to alternative methods has opened my mind to their potential, especially in managing chronic conditions like diabetes.
In conclusion, while modern medical practices have made significant progress in diabetes management, incorporating traditional systems like Ayurveda presents a promising avenue for more holistic care. Both approaches stress lifestyle changes and prevention, but Ayurveda adds a focus on natural harmony and balance. As ongoing research continues to assess the effectiveness of these treatments, bridging the gap between traditional and conventional medicine is increasingly important for offering patients a comprehensive approach to health. Moving forward, the combination of these diverse healing systems offers an innovative approach to managing chronic diseases, paving the way for a new frontier in healthcare.
I really loved how you mentioned that Ayurvedic treatments "might complement conventional medicines. I think it's really important to see treatment as holistic, which means we need to strive for excellence in every area of our well-being. I believe that being single-minded with respect to "all-natural" treatments or similarly with respect to more medical treatments can be equally detrimental to your health. We can optimize our health by striving for excellence in both social, emotional, spiritual, and medical wellness.
ReplyDeleteI really liked your discussion of Ayurvedia's capabilities specifically with diabetes. That illness is such a big deal, especially with the American obesity pandemic. But setting up social supports and striving to live a more fillfulling life, I truly believe that people will be less likely to become obese, protecting them from type II diabetes.
I had never considered the effects of alcoholism on blood glucose levels and in turn diabetes. This concerns me because my cousin was recently diagnosed with diabetes and they are an alcoholic. I will reach out to them to make sure they're being aware of their carbohydrate consumption with alcohol and possible switching to alcohols that are sugar-free. It was additionally remarkable that alcohol consumption decreases glucose production. Do you know if after the alcohol is broken down, the sugar is metabolized as normal, or if it somehow affects metabolism later too?
It is sickening that treating diabetes costs so much. I read an article about a middle-aged man who died in his appartment from ketoacidosis because he had not made enough money to purchase new insulin. I will undoubedly try to move to South Korea if I am ever diagnosed with any form of diabetes.