If you are a person suffering from Diabetes, there has been a recent study done by the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences in Toronto providing statistics regarding the side effects of Thiazolidinediones. This class of Diabetes drug has been linked to congestive heart failure and even the possibility of heart attacks.

A team of doctors from the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences in Toronto analyzed cause and effect on over 159,000 older adults who have been and are currently taking this class of Diabetes drugs. These adults were analyzed from 2002 through to 2005 and entered in an Ontario Health Care Database to record their findings. The statistics of this study included a period of 3.8 year follow-up cycle with each adult and their findings were astonishing. During this follow-up period, 7.9% were hospitalized for congestive heart failure, 7.9% were hospitalized for heart attack and an overwhelming 19% died.

This study has proved that taking Thiazolidinediones increases the risk of congestive heart failure, heart attack and death by 60%, 40% and 29%. These statistics are not acceptable for any person living with Diabetes. With further research it was revealed that risks were segregated to patients using Avandia, also known as Rosiglitazone. Although it is important more studies continue to analyze these drugs and their deadly effects on Diabetes patients, this report is alarming in itself.

When you are faced to deal with a disease such as Diabetes, it is important to remember that prescription drugs and Western Medicine are not the only options you have to control and live with Diabetes. Millions of people today are turning to the natural side of healing when it comes to their Diabetes and they are finding the natural results not only work but provide zero side effects. No matter what type of Diabetes you are currently battling there is a natural herb or supplement to help maintain and control it.

Ginseng is one of the most common forms of natural treatments used for Diabetes patients today. Of course there are many different types of Ginseng available today; however studies have shown that North American Ginseng provides the best results. It can improve your blood sugar control and glycosylated hemoglobin levels, which any Diabetes patient knows are two very important components.

Chromium is another effective natural treatment for Diabetes patients that is rapidly becoming many people’s first choice. This essential trace mineral plays not only an important role when it comes to fat metabolism but it more importantly helps the body respond properly to insulin. There have been several studies that have shown low chromium levels in people with Diabetes which makes this mineral an important inclusion to any Diabetes routine.

Although these natural alternatives are 100% safe taken alone, if you are planning to take them with other prescribed medications it is important to notify a qualified healthcare practitioner to ensure the combination is safe. Natural alternatives such as the two listed above provide a different type of control for Diabetes patients, but a type of control that is just as effective but without the deadly side effects. When the time comes to choose the right control path for you, take the time to consider what natural alternatives have to offer.

For more alternative treatments for diabetes, I recommend reading my articles on the herbs Bitter Melon, Cinnamon, Aloe Vera and all the articles in the Diabetes directory.