Last Updated on November 29, 2022 by Shabnam Sengupta
Ayurvedic practitioners try to control high blood sugar levels using ayurvedic remedies, such as ayurvedic tablets and herbal supplements which help the body maintain sugar levels.
How does Ayurveda describe gestational diabetes?
According to research published in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences and International Ayurvedic Medical Journal, there is a lack of direct reference of gestational diabetes in Ayurveda. However, Garbha Vridhi is described as a complication. Garbha describes a condition with excessive increase in size of abdomen, perspiration and difficulty in labour. Ayurveda observes obesity as closely linked to insulin resistance. The description of diabetes comes under Prameha where it discusses its different types and detailed management including Ahara, Vihara and Aushadha Chikitsa.
How does Ayurveda treat gestational diabetes?
Under Ayurveda, there is a multidisciplinary approach, which includes preventive measures and other practices such as Yogasana and Pranayam along with dietary management and consumption of certain herbs.
Preventive measures involve keeping the pregnant woman in a healthy state of body and mind. Garbhadhan Vidhi Acharyas advise body purifying measures (Sanshodhana Karma) along with special diet and mode of life. Individualised month wise diet regime is also prescribed for a pregnant woman to keep her and her baby in good health, energy, and compactness.
Yogasana is advised, and it should not be practiced empty stomach. The pregnant mother must consume a light diet one hour before. Certain asanas contraindicate which involves lying down on abdomen or involves twists and turns. Women with a threatened abortion, or a history of recurrent abortions should also not do Yogasana. The commonly recommended schedule is to practice yoga from 18 to 32 week of gestation, 1-hour session of yoga at least thrice a week.
Under herbs, various plants have been used individually or in formulations to treat diabetes and its complications. The most common herbs include turmeric, Neem, Indian Gooseberry, bitter gourd, Bilva (Indian Bael), cinnamon, fenugreek and garlic. Ayurvedic researchers state that phytochemicals from Tinospora cordifolia have proved effective against gestational diabetes mellitus.
Also, diet plays a major role in managing gestational diabetes as per Ayurveda. Vegetables such as pinach, cucumber, radish, sponge gourd, karela (bitter gourd), tomatoes, drumstick, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage are recommended. You should consume pulses like green gram, chickpea, bengal gram, etc. You should also include spices such as cinnamon, fenugreek seeds, garlic, turmeric, etc. in your diet. Also, eat dry fruits and fruits with a low glycemic index, like apples, peaches, etc. in moderate quantities.
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