Posted: January 6, 2026

A Holistic View of Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is not simply a condition of high blood sugar—it is a signal from the body that balance has been disrupted. It reflects deeper issues involving insulin function, inflammation, acidity, stress, and the health of the heart, brain, and nervous system.

Insulin is the messenger that allows glucose to enter the cells and be used for energy. When the body is under chronic stress or overwhelmed by excess sugar and processed foods, the cells begin to ignore insulin. This is known as insulin resistance—a protective response of the body rather than a failure.

In response, the pancreas works harder, releasing more insulin. Over time, this excess insulin encourages fat storage, fluid retention, cravings, and swelling. Sodium retention increases blood volume, which can raise blood pressure and strain the arteries. As circulation becomes compromised, the risk of inflammation, plaque buildup, heart disease, stroke, kidney stress, and cognitive decline increases.

From a holistic perspective, diabetes is the body asking for support, nourishment, rest, and reconnection.

The Three Expressions of Diabetes

Type 1 Diabetes
An autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the pancreas. Insulin support is necessary for life, alongside immune and nervous system care.

Type 2 Diabetes
The most common and most reversible form. Rooted in insulin resistance, stress, inflammation, and lifestyle imbalance. Symptoms may include fatigue, leg pain, swelling, vision changes, frequent thirst, and elevated blood sugar.

Type 3 Diabetes
A term used to describe insulin resistance in the brain, often associated with cognitive decline and dementia.

Nourishing the Body Back Into Balance

Healing Through Food

• Avoid meat and dairy for at least 30 days to reduce inflammation and acidity
• Embrace an alkaline, plant-forward diet
• Drink at least 50 ounces of spring water daily (coconut water may be added for mineral support)

Whole Fruits & Natural Fiber

Whole fruits provide nourishment, hydration, and fiber, which helps regulate blood sugar naturally.

Recommended fruits:

• Green apples
• Berries
• Kiwi
• Grapefruit

Fiber slows sugar absorption and supports gut and liver health. Fruit juices are best avoided, as they concentrate sugars and may stress insulin response.

Plant Medicine for Blood Sugar Harmony

Herbs That Support Insulin Sensitivity

• Gymnema sylvestre – Reduces sugar cravings and blocks sweet taste receptors
• Ceylon cinnamon – Gently lowers fasting blood sugar
• Berberine (from goldenseal and barberry) –Supports glucose metabolism
• Moringa seeds – Nourish the body and help address the root imbalance

Balancing & Adaptogenic Herbs

• Bitter melon – Often called “plant insulin,” supports glucose uptake
• Holy basil & Ashwagandha – Reduce cortisol, support adrenal health, and help balance blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol
• Fenugreek – Slows carbohydrate absorption and supports natural insulin release
• Black seed oil – Helps reduce visceral fat and systemic inflammation

Supporting the Pancreas, Liver & Digestion

In holistic healing, the pancreas does not work alone—the liver, gallbladder, and digestive system must also be supported.

Herbs for Gentle Organ Support

• Milk thistle – Nourishes and protects the liver and gallbladder
• Goldenseal & barberry – Support liver and gallbladder function- contain Berberine 
• Chaparral – Traditionally used for cleansing support

Digestive & Parasite Support

• Fresh cloves
• Wormwood
• Slippery elm (soothing to the gutlining)

Lifestyle as Medicine

Healing happens through daily rhythms, not quick fixes.

• Walk for 10 minutes after meals to improve glucose uptake
• Prioritize deep, restorative sleep
• Eat slowly and mindfully
• Manage stress through breathwork, prayer, meditation, or time in nature
• Start gently and listen to your body’s feedback

A Holistic Reminder

Type 2 diabetes is not a life sentence—it is a conversation with the body. With nourishment, movement, plant medicine, and compassion, balance can be restored and the body can remember how to heal.