Even though a staggering 21 million Americans currently have diabetes, new studies indicate that managing and avoiding diabetes is something within reach for many. In a recent experiment by the Medical University of Ohio, a test group of people with diabetes practiced a series of relaxation exercises over a 10-week period. The group experienced a 10% drop in fasting blood-sugar and in the level of HbA1c (the blood marker of glucose levels), indicating that their glucose levels consistently stayed in the desired lower range. Because stress triggers hormones that raise blood-sugar levels, the relaxation methods significantly helped regulate the frequent ups-and-downs that diabetics often report experiencing.
New research also indicates that psyllium-derived fibers have a similar effect in regulating blood-sugar. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study by scientists in Iran found that people with diabetes who took 5.1 grams of this soluble fiber reduced their fasting blood-sugar and HbA1c levels. And there’s even more good news… no more finger-pricks. The Guardian RT Continuous Glucose Monitoring System employs a sensor inserted beneath the skin at the waist that records blood-sugar levels and sends readings every five minutes. A slight vibration or beep indicates if glucose levels are too high or too low. The device will soon be available; ask your doctor for more information.

Source: Smith, L. (2006). Psyllium supports healthy blood-sugar, lipids. Life Extension, March. Retrieved online July 21, 2006 from http://www.lef.org/magazine/mag2006/mar2006_itn_01.htm