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According to the most recent American Diabetes Association report, 29.1 million Americans are diabetic. Additionally, the disease still held the rank of being the seventh leading cause of death in the United States. Over 8 million of that 29.1 are undiagnosed, unaware that they have the condition.(1)

Therefore, it’s wise for everyone to take a closer look at their dietary lifestyle and eat foods that help fight diabetes.

Fight diabetes with these 17 herbs and spices

Several kinds of herbs and spices exist that keep the disease at bay. Here’s a look at what Dr. Alexa Fleckenstein, author of The Diabetes Cure, swears by.(2)
The list of herbs, spices and information below are derived from her
book. Supporting details and their sources are noted, if used.

1. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

In a small study involving 40 type 2 diabetics, it was found that those consuming this herb were able to reduce their fasting blood glucose levels by approximately 17.6 percent. Additionally, their blood glucose levels after eating a meal were lowered by 7.3 percent.

Why not add their earthy yet semi-sweet leaves to more meals?

2. Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus)

Bilberries’ blue color, which exists on the inside as well as the outside, has antioxidants called anthocyanins. They’re known to help fight diabetes and lower inflammation. In fact, an Institute of Public Health and Clinical Nutrition study found that regular ingestion of them led to improvements in glucose tolerance.

3. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)

Chamomile has the ability to help lower blood sugar levels and properly remove sugar from blood and store it in the liver, making it a smart choice in addition to the other herbs and spices mentioned in this article.

4. Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum)

This aromatic treat is one that won’t wreak havoc on glucose levels. Quite the contrary.

One 2003 study found that after just 40 days, a type of cinnamon called Cinnamomum aromaticum, or cassia (typically in grocery stores) was found to lower blood glucose levels nearly 30 percent.(3)

5. Cumin (Cuminum cyminum)

The spicy, smoky flavor of cumin is another taste that can be enjoyed by diabetics or those at risk. Not only does it lower cholesterol and blood sugar, but it manages advanced glycation end products (AGEs), which can be of concern for those with the disease.

6. Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)

This bitter leafy green is a diabetic’s dream: It’s said to help heal the liver, produce a cleansing action in the body and boost weight loss.

7. Dill (Anethum graveolens)

A versatile herb, dill was used during the middle ages to boost everything from meals to health.

Today, it’s noted that dill has about 70 beneficial chemicals that specifically work to combat diabetes. Talk about packing a significant health punch!

8. Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

Described as having an “elegant” taste with a distinct anise flavor, fennel contains a phytochemical called anethole, which fights inflammation. Its seeds and the vegetable play a role in warding off diabetes complications.

9. Garlic (Allium sativum)

Eating more garlic means preventing your cytokines from becoming unruly.

10. Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Ginger has been shown to improve many conditions that are concerning for diabetics. It has the ability to lower cholesterol levels, blood fats and blood glucose.

11. Peppermint (Mentha x piperita)

It’s brimming with diabetes-fighting antioxidants that make it well worth adding to meals.

12. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Effective in warding off inflammation, it’s active phytochemical, carnosol, helps those with metabolic syndrome.

13. Sage (Salvia officinalis)

Not only does sage play a role in fighting germs and offering soothing qualities when enjoyed as a tea, but its powerful antioxidants are known to fight diabetes.

14. Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana)

For those with a sweet tooth, rejoice! This sweetener has been found to be safe for diabetics while also providing them with helpful postprandial blood sugar and insulin levels.

15. Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus)

This herb has been found to produce a hypoglycemic effect, decrease overeating and reduce insulin resistance.

16. Thyme (Thymus spp.)

With approximately 75 active phytochemicals that work to fight diabetes, this flavorful herb is a must when it comes to staying healthy.

17. Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

This spice provides some serious kick when it comes to taste as well as heath. A study in the journal Diabetes Care found that prediabetics who took a placebo instead of curcumin capsules developed type 2 diabetes. Those taking the capsules did not.