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Reduce Your Sweet Craving
Whether you’re diabetic, a dieter or just someone trying to cut back on your sugar intake, the issue of sugar control is no doubt important to you. If you’ve been considering natural alternatives, adding Gymnema Sylvestre to your supplement regimen is something you will want to consider.
Meet
The Sugar Destroyer
Gymnema Sylvestre is a
woody, vine-like plant native to Central and Southern India. It's also called Meshashringi,
Vishani, and Madhunashini. But it is perhaps best known by its
Hindi name, Gurmar, which is translated 'sugar destroyer'. In fact,
numerous reference sources indicate that Ayurvedic practitioners first used the
herb to treat diabetes almost 2,000 years ago. Reports indicate that as early as
the 1920s, preliminary scientific studies found evidence that Gymnema leaves can
reduce blood
sugar levels.
Traditional
Uses
It has been used in Ayurvedic
medicine, the traditional healing system of India, for thousands of years.
Various preparations have applied for a wide variety of conditions such as
constipation, stomach ailments, fevers, and urinary disorders. However, Gymnema
is commonly used there to regulate sugar metabolism and
other
hypo/hyperglycemic
conditions.
Diabetes: Gymnema has become increasingly popular not just here in the United States but around the world as a supportive herb for diabetes. Its believed to help stabilize blood sugar levels, enhance insulin production, and reduce the metabolic effects of sugar by preventing its absorption in the intestines. Currently, researchers have not been able to determine exactly which of Gymnema's active compounds are responsible for these actions. Therefore, many utilize the whole herb with all its synergistic benefits. Traditionally, 2-4 grams per day of the leaf powder is used.
Note: It is strongly suggested that you discuss your
personal situation with your physician if you’re considering adding Gymnema to
your herbal supplement program.
Weight
Loss Aid: If sugary snacks
are standing between you and your weight loss goal, then Gymnema may be a
beneficial addition to your program. Why? It was observed that chewing the
leaves helped to suppress or destroy the taste of sugar. It is still used by
many today to reduce the urge for sweets.
Additional
Considerations
Of course, sugar control and weight loss involves more
than just taking a pill, changes in lifestyle and eating habits are vital. Here
are some suggestions to help you in your quest to reduce sugar cravings:
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Eat bitter foods such as escarole, watercress, endive, dandelion and broccoli rabe on a regular basis
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Ingest adequate protein intake at every meal, balanced by generous servings of vegetables
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Reduce amounts of breads and pasta, This helps eliminate cravings for more carbohydrates, which in turn helps to reduce cravings for doughnuts, cookies, cakes and other sweets
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Eliminate coffee and drink more pure water.
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Exercise
Never forget that within nature’s vast wonderland, there is always help. Stevia, an herb that has been consumed for centuries in South America is a safe substitute for sugar, and does not promote dental caries. Stevia is safe for people with diabetes and it can be used in cooking.
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