Manage Diabetes with Two Key Herbs

Friday, March 5, 2010 by Dr. Julian Whitaker
There are two herbs that I recommend to help you manage blood sugar and protect against diabetes complications: Gymnema sylvestre and banaba leaf extract.

Gymnema sylvestre is an extract from the leaves of a climbing plant native to the forests of central and south India that has been used since the sixth century BC. The leaves of the plant contain gymnemic acids, which have been shown to slow the transport of glucose from the intestines to the bloodstream. This, in turn, helps keep blood sugar levels in the healthy range. I recommend a maintenance dose of 200 mg of Gymnema sylvestre daily. For extra support, try 400 mg daily.

Banaba leaf extract (Lagestroemia speciosa), which comes from Asia, contains colosolic acid. Colosolic acid promotes glucose transport into cells, making it easier to maintain blood sugar levels within the healthy range. In one Japanese clinical trial, 24 people living with diabetes were given a supplement containing banaba leaf or a placebo three times a day for four weeks. While those taking the placebo showed no improvement, significant blood sugar declines were observed in the individuals taking the herb.

I recommend 48 mg of banaba leaf daily.

Comments for Manage Diabetes with Two Key Herbs

Monday, March 15, 2010 by vina cook:
Istarted taking glucose essentials 2 weeks ago. I do at leat 30 min of exercise 5 days a week and avoid high glycemic foods. My problem is diarreah and stomach cramps, will this condition subside or must i stop taking this supplement?
Tuesday, March 16, 2010 by Tom Callahan:
Dear Ms. Cook, Congratulations on taking such positive steps to manage blood sugar naturally. As anyone who follows Dr. Whitaker's advice knows, so much can be accomplished through diet, exercise and targeted nutritional supplements. With respect to stomach upset on this particular supplement, my suggestion would be to reduce your dosage or discontinue it completely until the issue subsides, then gradually reintroduce the product into your daily routine. Of course, if you do find the level of nutrients in this particular product is not working for you, we'll certainly honor our 100% money back guarantee. Just let us know and we'll be happy to help. If you have any further questions, you can always address them directly to generalmanager@healthydirections.com. Sincerely, Tom Callahan General Manager, Forward Nutrition

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