Diabetes is a general term for a disease caused by defective carbohydrate metabolism and characterized by abnormally large amounts of sugar in the blood and urine. Diabetes is usually classified into two types. Type I or insulin-dependent diabetes, formerly called juvenile-onset, usually occurs in children and young adults; and, Type II, or non-insulin dependent diabetes (formerly called adult-onset diabetes) is found in persons over 40 years old and progresses slowly (Funk and Wagnalls 183).

Diabetes is considered a group of disorders with multiple causes, rather than a single disorder. The human pancreas secretes a hormone called insulin that promotes the entry of sugar glucose into all tissues of the body, providing energy for bodily activities. In a person with diabetes, however, the entry of glucose is impaired, either as a result of deficiency in the amount of insulin produced or of a blocking of the action of the insulin. Consequently, sugar builds up in the blood and is discharged in the urine. In a Type I diabetic, the problem is almost always a severe or total reduction in insulin production. In Type II diabetes, the pancreas often makes a considerable

Since diabetes that is incorrectly treated can be life threatening, a person should never try to treat the disease without the help of a doctor, and any and all treatments should be discussed thoroughly. However, there are alternative supplemental treatments that can vary diet, or offer supplemental vitamins and other minerals that can restore blood levels, or treat secondary effects of the disease. Even stress reduction practices may help lower blood glucose levels(Funk and Wagnalls 184).

An old therapy has recently been applied to the treatment of diabetes - acupuncture. Stimulation of certain points with acupuncture needles may help relieve some of the pain associated with diabetic neuropathy. Acupuncture has also been found to boost the immune system and minimize circulatory system complications. It should be noted that the use of acupuncture to assist in the treatment of diabetes, or any other disease, should only be through a consultation with a licensed practitioner (MEDICAL ADVISOR 320).

There are several types of herbs that can benefit the Type 2 diabetic. Blueberry leaves have been found to lower blood glucose levels and help maintain the vascular system. These herbs may also prevent hemorrhages in the eyes if diabetic retinopathy has developed. Blood flow can be maintained at adequate levels with supplements of Ginkgo extracts. Other benefits of Ginkgo help in the treatment of other long term effects of diabetes such as heart disease, hypertension (high blood pressure), and elevated cholesterol levels. Onion has been known to free up insulin, thus lowering blood glucose levels. One study showed that diabetics who had a powdered form of burdock after a starchy meal had a lowered incidence of hyperglycemia (Medical Advisor 321).

People with diabetes have a higher chance of heart disease and circulatory problems such as high blood pressure, hardening of arteries, heart attacks, and strokes. A number of people with diabetes suffer from a condition known as diabetic neuropathy, which causes a gradual deterioration in the nervous system. Many develop slowed reflexes, loss of sensation, numbness and tingling in legs, impotence, and circulatory problems (Medical Advisor 319).

Perhaps the most non-chemical, non-herbal aid in fighting diabetes is life style. Diabetes like many other chronic illnesses can benefit from reduced levels of stress, increased levels of exercise, and overall well being. Tests have proven that diabetics under stress often eat

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