Diabetes is a health condition that affects how your body uses sugar, known as glucose. Sugar gives you the energy necessary to thrive, but too much in the blood for extended periods can be dangerous. Currently, there is no cure for diabetes, meaning those diagnosed must learn to manage it. When well managed, people can live with it for years or even their whole lives. While modern medicine and the pharmaceutical industry have plenty of solutions to help control diabetes, some people prefer natural methods that are less likely to cause side effects. If you’re considering incorporating holistic diabetes treatments, here are a few options that are supported by research to effectively help you manage or even reverse the severity. 

What the science says

Managing diabetes is very important for a long, healthy life. While there’s no cure, people can control their blood sugar and avoid serious problems by being proactive. Holistic diabetes care methods like eating well, exercising and using natural remedies can support better health when used along with medical care.

Clinical Pharmacist, Dr. Diana Rangaves, “True holistic wellness isn’t found in quick fixes or isolated solutions. It comes from nurturing mind, body, and spirit as a whole. Modern medicine treats symptoms well, but lasting health needs a broader approach.“

Always talk to a doctor before trying new treatments, even natural ones. With the right tools and support, people with diabetes can thrive and live well.

There are two main types of diabetes:

Type 1: Type 1 diabetes typically starts in childhood or the teen years. It’s caused by the immune system attacking the pancreas, a critical organ that makes the insulin hormone. Insulin helps move sugar from the blood into the body’s cells – without it, sugar levels build up in the blood.

Type 2: Type 2 diabetes is more common in adults; however, more younger people are getting it too. With this form, the body doesn’t use insulin well, or may not make enough of it. Type 2 is more common than Type 1 and is often linked to lifestyle issues such as being overweight and not exercising enough, or having a family history of diabetes.

Holistic means treating the whole person rather than focusing solely on the disease. This can include natural and lifestyle-based ways to support the body. These methods don’t replace medicine but can help manage blood sugar and a doctor’s care. Better still, research supports several holistic methods to help control blood sugar and, in some cases, even reverse more severe forms of diabetes. 

Cinnamon and berberine

Natural supplements may support blood sugar control. Cinnamon has been shown in several studies to reduce fasting blood glucose. Berberine, found in certain plants, works similarly to the diabetes drug metformin. Both naturally occurring supplements are backed by research published in the February 2025 edition of European Journal of Nutrition. Before starting a supplement regimen, speak with a doctor to confirm that it won’t conflict with any prescribed medications. 

Traditional medicines

Some traditional remedies have been studied by scientists. Bitter melon, used in Asia and Africa, may help lower blood sugar. A 2021 study published in the Evidence Based Complement of Alternative Medicine found it may improve glucose tolerance. Fenugreek seeds, which are frequently used in Indian cooking, also help reduce blood sugar, according to a 2023 study in the International Journal of Molecular Science.

Risks & Safety Considerations

When diabetes is not treated, it’s known as uncontrolled diabetes and can create a domino effect of health problems over time. High blood sugar can increase the risk of developing heart disease, blindness, kidney failure, and foot problems. In severe cases, people may require amputations or even face death. 

Diabetes is more common within the Black community

Black Americans are more likely to develop diabetes than white Americans. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) points out that as of 2021, 12.1% of Black adults were diagnosed with diabetes. This statistic is often related to health care access, income, and educatio,n as well as food choices and stress.

Food and medical deserts can severely limit access to healthy and nutritious meals or regular health care. Chronic stress from discrimination or financial struggles also makes it harder to stay healthy. Genetics may also play a role, but lifestyle and social factors are major reasons for the higher risk.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 2022 statistics put diabetes as the eighth leading cause of death in the United States. While there’s currently no cure for diabetes, it can be managed. Checking blood sugar levels often, taking medicine if prescribed, eating healthy, and staying active are some of the most effective options. 

Alternatives

Eat a balanced diet with whole foods

Eating the right foods can help lower blood sugar. Focus on whole grains, vegetables, fruits, lean protein, and healthy fats. A recent study published in The Journal of Nutrition found that a Mediterranean-style diet (rich in olive oil, nut,s and vegetables) can lower A1C levels, which is a marker of long-term blood sugar control.

Exercise regularly

Moving your body helps insulin work better. Even walking for 30 minutes a day can lower blood sugar. According to the ADA, regular exercise improves insulin sensitivity and lowers blood sugar for up to 24 hours after a workout.

Maintain a healthy weight

Being overweight or obese is a common precursor for people who have diabetes. Carrying too much weight can increase a person’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes specifically as a result of insulin resistance when the body is unable to properly regulate blood sugar levels. Excess weight can also impact how the pancreas functions, create hormonal imbalances, and even trigger other conditions like high blood pressure.

Practice stress-relieving techniques

Stress can raise blood sugar. Mind-body practices like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can reduce stress and help the body use insulin better. A 2018 study in Diabetology & Metabolic Syndrome journal showed that people who practiced stress management techniques had lower blood sugar levels and better mood.

What is a holistic approach to diabetes care?

Holistic approaches means focusing on an overall wellness model such as losing weight (if necessary), getting and staying active, improving dietary choices, and engaging in routine checkups and blood sugar monitoring to keep diabetes well managed.

Can type 2 diabetes be reversed permanently?

While type 2 diabetes can’t be reversed, it is possible to shift the condition into remission by working hard to get blood sugar levels back to non-diabetic range. In most cases, this requires significant lifestyle changes in conjunction with a medical plan for some people.

What is the miracle food for diabetes?

the miracle foods for diabetes are legumes such as beans and dried peas. They’re known for being plant-based protein sources full of fiber, folate, potassium, zinc and iron which can help to keep blood sugar levels balanced.

What is the one fruit that lowers blood sugar?

Berries and citrus fruits are favored by the American Diabetes Association because they’re lower in sugar than other options.

Bottom Line

Diabetes can be a life threatening condition that can trigger the development of other health complications throughout the body if it’s not managed. Especially within the Black community, the disease is very prevalent and is often linked with obesity and poor dietary choices. Beyond simply seeing a doctor and taking medications as prescribed, people are encouraged to take a holistic approach which means developing meaningful lifestyle changes that can help keep diabetes under control and for some people even put it into remission.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Thai herb for diabetes?

The Thai herb, Gymnema sylvestre, is known for helping with diabetes. It’s called “gurmar” in India, which means “sugar destroyer.” A 2019 study published in Pharmacognosy Journal showed it may reduce sugar absorption and even help regenerate insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.

What emotion is linked to diabetes?

In traditional Chinese medicine and some modern studies, worry and stress are linked to diabetes. Stress raises the hormone cortisol, which increases blood sugar. Chronic stress and anxiety can make diabetes worse, so emotional health is important in diabetes care.