Yes, camel milk can be helpful in diabetes management.
Why Are Some Diabetics Turning to Camel Milk?
“Why am I always tired?” – One of the most asked questions on the internet. Despite doing everything clean, there is an issue with feeling fatigued and exhausted. Along with stress and a hotch-potched lifestyle, can blood sugar levels be a reason?
Blood sugar level is a real ring master, from Tom Hanks to Nick Jonas, even the fittest of them all fell into the trap of blood sugar irregularities. It spikes without notice, giving a real punch of frustration. And the exhaustion comes at BOGO!
However, analyze this situation: Two generations ago, Grandpa and Granny had a harder life but were way fitter than this generation. Did they use something magical or what? Maybe their traditional way of life had something to do with it, or maybe a specific practice. The speculations are hard to refute.
Is it too good to be true? Hang on
Let's put up a puzzle together
Undisciplined blood sugar levels make life difficult. People who live with it know better- planning meals, taking meds, counting carbs, and avoiding cravings; it’s a tough drill. Yet these sugar levels do not always play fair. Even with meds and proper discipline, it is like walking on a tight rope. And let’s not get into the emotional drain-out as a whole for now.
Despite this, did you know that there is a community called Raica, in North Western Rajasthan in India, where the prevalence of diabetes is really low? This is not a fad; check it on the internet- it’s loaded with scientific stuff that will prove this point.
Now, Raicas are a nomadic desert community, herding camels- Yep. Is it something in their surroundings that is preventing their blood sugar from going out of control? Here, again, there is evidence that the results of the non-prevalence of diabetes are not the same in the non-Raicas.
So, what is it? Have you placed the missing puzzle piece correctly? So the secret is unveiled now- camel milk.
Correct- camel milk for diabetes is not a myth or fad, and let us explore the real truth behind it.
Diabetes know-how
Diabetes is a condition where the body is saying that it cannot handle sugar the way it is supposed to. When the body does not produce enough insulin or is unable to use it (insulin is the key to breaking down sugar), the sugar remains in the body rather than being used. Result? High levels of sugar.
Wondering why?
- Genetic
- Autoimmune response (Pancreas gets rude here!)
- Unhealthy lifestyle
Types of diabetes
There are two types of diabetes, check it out:-
| Type 1 Diabetes | Type 2 Diabetes |
| The autoimmune melodrama- the immune system attacks the insulin-making cells | The lifestyle is rampant; insulin is produced in the body, but it is not interested in its job |
| Shows up at an early age | Shows up in adults |
| Insulin shots must be befriended for life, as no insulin is produced | The body cells are resistant to insulin |
| Tricky to manage, but not impossible | Manageable with lifestyle changes |
How to know when the sugar game is off?
- Frequent washroom rendezvous: peeing all the time
- Low on energy and always exhausted
- Thirsty 24/7
- Cuts are not healing early
- Abrupt change in weight
Camel milk in diabetes management
For centuries, the nomadic population of the desert areas has been consuming camel milk traditionally as a part of their culture. It is a nutritious food that may have the potential to manage the overall body and keep the body healthy.
Bioactive compounds
Camel milk has a bioactive compound called beta-casein, which mimics insulin activity: same same but different, LOL. On doing the math here, it is seen that insulin is produced and the sugar levels are controlled – a clean sweep, wow.
Stress managers
Oxidative stress in the body can be a major driver of organ failures in the body. Selenium is the rescuer here. It may neutralize the free radicals and reduce stress and inflammation. How is camel milk related here? It is a rich source of selenium.
Glycemic Index of Camel Milk
Glycemic index or GI is a scale that determines how fast carb-containing foods can raise the blood sugar levels. Now, sugary desserts release glucose very rapidly, so the blood sugar levels spike easily. In the case of Type 1 diabetes, the body cannot produce insulin, and high GI foods can be an assassin here. So, low GI foods are better recommended for such people.
Camel milk has a potential hypoglycemic effect, as per scientific probes. This may be beneficial in the management of Type 1 diabetes.
Thus, camel milk can be regarded as a natural remedy for the control of blood sugar.
Not a desert-dweller: How to get Camel milk?
No worries here, guys. Camel milk is available in many accessible forms. Try them as you wish.
- Natural raw form- unpasteurized- only if you are in the camel niche. But studies say it is better for blood sugar control.
- Pasteurized, packaged forms in tetra packs
- Dried powdered forms- the most convenient one- you can get it in the Alps and in Hawaii
However, the pasteurized form is always recommended for preventing any infections. Also, if the unpasteurized form is consumed, it must be boiled beforehand.
Camel milk is accessible- now, how to have it?
Take it slow, for real. It is a new thing for your body; do not gulp down a bottle. It is suggested that you consult your doctor before adding anything to your diet to save yourself from unwanted responses.
To control the spikes, it may be consumed in the morning or post-meals only. As per research, in the cases of diabetes (T1DM or T2DM), up to 500 mL a day was recorded as beneficial. More glycemic control, better lipid profile, and less resistance to insulin were demonstrated.
Readers can decide: Camel milk for diabetes: fad or fact?
Who should avoid camel milk?
While studies have reported that promising results can be expected from camel milk in diabetes, it is always important to prioritise the choice for your body.
- Some may be sensitive to certain proteins; if it is severe, it is better to avoid them.
- It is not a replacement for breast milk, so children under the age of 1 year should stick to mom’s milk only.
- People with low blood sugar must avoid it without medical advice.
Let’s take a quick look at the sugar level categories:
| Amount of sugar in blood | Category | Food that can be had |
|---|---|---|
| Less than 70 | Low sugar or hypoglycemia | Fresh fruit juices, banana, honey, glucose drinks |
| 70 to 99 | Normal, you are okay | Balanced meals with fibre and camel milk (they can keep sugar in control) |
| 100-125 | Borderline; be cautious | Avoid sugars; camel milk can be had, of course |
| More than 126 | Acceptable if post-meal, but this is high level if at fasting | No refined carbs or sugary foods. Take care at this point |
Final Thoughts
According to scientific findings, Camel milk for diabetes may not be a myth. The compounds and minerals present in it may support anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties, along with insulin production in the body. These processes are allies in diabetes management.
This can be worth a sip if a natural management remedy is sought after. However, to add this natural therapy to the daily regimen, a second opinion from a healthcare provider is always recommended. It is not a cure, but it may be a game-changer for those on the diabetes journey.
If you are tired of the frequent highs and lows of sugar, this can be a balance.
Sometimes the remedies we are seeking may not be invented; they may be hiding in our traditions
Ever tried camel milk? Share your thoughts or questions in the comments — let’s learn from each other’s journeys.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can camel milk help in diabetes management?
How much camel milk should a diabetic person consume daily?
Studies suggest that any adult can take 200 mL of camel milk per day; however, diabetics can take up to 500 mL three times a day.
Is camel milk safe for everyone with diabetes?
Although camel milk is safe for consumption in diabetes, anyone with sensitivities must avoid it. It can be given to children above 1 year of age. However, medical advice is always recommended before starting something new.
Does camel milk lower blood sugar instantly?
Camel milk is not an overnight game-changer. The effects are gradual when taken regularly along with a healthy lifestyle.
Can I take camel milk with my diabetes medication?
Yes, it can be taken, but professional medical advice can be helpful to confirm this.
Is camel milk better than cow’s milk for diabetes?
Yes, camel milk has less lactose and beta casein, two allergens that may cause bloating or other issues related to digestion. This makes it potentially more beneficial than cow milk for diabetes management.
Is camel milk good for diabetic people?
Yes, camel milk may be beneficial for diabetic people. It can lower blood sugar levels. However, it is better to always consult a doctor before trying anything new.
Which milk is good for type 1 diabetes?
For Type 1 Diabetes, nutrient-rich food with a low glycemic index is beneficial. Camel milk is a great option with these properties.
What is the prevalence of diabetes in Rajasthan?
According to NFHS data, the prevalence of diabetes in Rajasthan is 10%, lower than the national average of 16%.
Can camel milk help in both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes?
Yes, Camel milk may be beneficial in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
How to use camel milk for diabetes?
You can drink camel milk plain or add it to your daily meals like Oats Pudding, tea or smoothies. If you have diabetes, it’s always good to check with your doctor before including it regularly.