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Diabetes: Naturopathic Approach

Updated: 4 days ago

Three main types of diabetes

TYPE 1

TYPE 2

​TYPE 3*

​10% of people with diabetes

Commonly diagnosed in children

90% of people with diabetes

2-4 % of all pregnancies

​Pancreas is unable to produce insulin which controls amount of sugar in blood

Pancreas does not produce enough insulin or the body does not effectively use the insulin that is produced

​Gestational diabetes mellitus (temporary during pregnancy) Leads to increased risk of diabetes type 2 for both mother and child

*All pregnant women should be screened for GDM between 24-28 weeks of pregnancy. Women who are at high risk for undiagnosed type 2 diabetes should be screened at less than 20 weeks of pregnancy. GDM can be managed!




Symptom Checklist


10 common signs or symptoms of diabetes

  1. Unusual thirst

  2. Frequent urination

  3. Extreme fatigue

  4. Weight change (gain or loss)

  5. Lack of energy

  6. Blurred vision

  7. Frequent or recurring infections

  8. Cuts and bruises that are slow to heal

  9. Tingling or numbness in the hands or feet

  10. Trouble getting or maintaining an erection



Is diabetes serious?


Left untreated, or improperly managed, diabetes can results in complications such as heart disease, kidney disease, eye disease, problems with erection, and/or nerve damage. The earlier you know, the sooner you can take action with lifestyle changes that can help prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes. Click here to book a free 15-minute consult with us to find out how we can help you reduce your risk of diabetes



How do Naturopathic Doctors address diabetes?


10 common naturopathic approaches to diabetes:

  1. Education about diabetes and how to manage your blood glucose levels

  2. Physical activity to help lower blood sugar levels

  3. Clinical nutrition guidance on blood sugar regulation

  4. Weight management strategies to help reduce associated risks

  5. Lifestyle management to manage living with diabetes or preventing risks associated with diabetes

  6. Botanical therapies (teas, tinctures, pills) or natural health products

  7. In-office physical exams to screen and assess for diabetes signs and symptoms

  8. Smoking cessation advice and therapies

  9. Assess & address blood pressure and cholesterol levels

  10. Address screening and prevention of complications or associated health conditions

Got Questions?



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