Acupuncture may help with diabetes symptoms
Traditional acupuncture could be an effective means of helping to alleviate the symptoms of diabetes, according to the British Acupuncture Council.
More than 2.2 million people in the UK suffer from type 2 diabetes, a chronic disease often linked to sedentary lifestyles and obesity.
Cases of the disease have risen rapidly in recent years but, if detected early, certain lifestyle changes may prevent the development of serious complications such as blindness and heart disease.
Type 2 diabetes develops when the body can no longer make enough insulin or when the insulin that is produced does not work properly. Initial symptoms are often very mild and many people may be unaware that they have the condition. Symptoms include constant thirst, the need to urinate frequently, tiredness and weight loss.
Acupuncture has been found to increase insulin production, regulate blood sugar and improve blood circulation.
Lisa Sherman, Acupuncturist and British Acupuncture Council member, said: “Acupuncture can be safely and effectively combined with Western medicine and can play an effective role in an integrated diabetes treatment plan.
“As well as applying the technique of needling, which has been demonstrated to have beneficial effects on blood sugar control, an acupuncturist will often suggest beneficial lifestyle changes such as changing to a healthier diet, losing weight and increasing physical activity.
“Maintaining these changes is important to prevent type 2 diabetes from getting worse, and working with a supportive acupuncturist can help people commit to taking positive steps.”
Many of Westfield’s health cash plans offer a therapy treatment benefit, which enables policyholders to claim back the costs of acupuncture, up to set limits. The benefit also covers physiotherapy, osteopathy and chiropractic treatment.
Acupuncture can be used to help tackle a variety of conditions ranging from musculoskeletal disorders to stress, phobias and addiction.
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BBC Health News 
UK edition
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