December 2013
Welcome to the monthly Ask Dr. Marty Newsletter. In response to several requests, I have decided to share some information based on questions that I frequently receive regarding natural health topics. I hope you enjoy the newsletter and hope that you will forward any questions you may have as well.
QUESTION: My doctor just told me my blood sugar is getting higher. She wants to wait until it is even higher before I need to take any medication. What can I do in the meantime to reverse this trend?
ANSWER: Your question really hits home for lots of people during the holidays. We are exposed to so many sweets at parties and with meals during Thanksgiving and Christmas. And let’s not even think of all the stress that can try our patience during December. It’s enough to just make you want to cry Uncle, or maybe Aunt if she’s the one who just made that red velvet cake! But here are some basics on blood sugar from my book True Health Series: ENERGY! that should help.
The pancreas is responsible for providing digestive enzymes and maintaining appropriate levels of blood glucose (sugar) levels in the body through the production of insulin. Blood sugar problems can wreak havoc with functions throughout the whole body. This imbalance can be a major source of FATIGUE. Either high or low blood sugar can be life-threatening. If you have an imbalance, work closely with your health care professional and monitor your blood sugar levels accordingly.
Hypoglycemia is low blood sugar and can be characterized by fatigue, weakness, dizziness, mood swings, lack of focus, and cravings for carbohydrates.
Hyperglycemia (diabetes) is an abnormally high level of blood sugar and is characterized by anxiety and extreme FATIGUE. In type 1 diabetes, the pancreas cannot produce sufficient insulin. In type 2 diabetes, a sufficient amount of insulin is produced, but the cells have become resistant. Since obesity is the primary cause of type 2 diabetes, refer to the chapters on Excess Body Weight, Sugar Blues, and Soda. The number of Americans with type 2 diabetes has tripled since 1980.
Metabolic Syndrome (or syndrome X) is a precursor to heart disease and diabetes, in which the cells become resistant to insulin. Metabolic Syndrome includes high blood pressure, high blood sugar, high triglycerides, obesity around the middle of the body, and low levels of the good cholesterol (HDL). Because a blood sugar imbalance can cause circulatory problems, refer to Part VIII for “Poor Circulation and Blood Pressure.”
Protein for breakfast is especially important for blood sugar balance throughout the day. Caffeine can also raise blood sugar levels. Eating several small meals a day with protein is also a helpful approach for normalizing blood sugar levels.
Remedies:
Low Blood Sugar:
CHROMIUM GTF, ELEUTHERO, FOOD ENZYMES, HY-A, JUNIPER BERRIES, LICORICE ROOT, STEVIA, and TARGET P-14
High Blood Sugar:
ADRENAL SUPPORT, BLOOD SUGAR FORMULA, C-X, CARBO GRABBERS®, CHROMIUM GTF, HAWTHORN BERRIES, HY-C, P-X®, PBS, PRO-PANCREAS
Hot Tip: Exercise that is appropriate for the individual is very important in leveling out blood sugar and increasing circulation.
Next month…Time Management
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Maureen (Marty) Kernion is not a physician and does not diagnose nor prescribe. She received a bachelor’s degree in secondary education from Louisiana State University, and a Master of Science degree and Doctorate of Natural Health degree from Clayton College of Natural Health. She is the author of Going Natural with Herbs. Marty lectures on natural health topics across the country and has been featured at 78 Barnes and Noble book stores since her book was published. She is also a retired professor, specializing in courses in nutrition and herbal remedies.
It is always wise to advise your pharmacist or health care practitioner about any change in diet or supplements you plan to take, especially if you take any prescription medication.
“Their fruit will serve for food and their leaves for healing.” Ezekiel 47:12
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