How did people manage diabetes before insulin?

Historically, severe dietary restrictions were the only way people managed high sugar before modern medicine. Today, we have no excuse to be careless. With busy work schedules, managing diabetes requires strict portion control and regular consultations with an endocrinologist.

Our ancestors relied heavily on natural herbs like bitter gourd juice, fenugreek seeds, and jamun seeds to help control blood sugar. While these traditional remedies can support your health, they cannot replace modern medication. Always keep your doctor in the loop before starting any home remedies.

My father was recently diagnosed with borderline high sugar and we are all a bit lost. I read that people used to follow very extreme low-carb diets in the olden days to keep it under control. Is it safe to completely cut out rice and rotis, or should we consult a proper clinical nutritionist first?

I am not a doctor, but my grandfather managed his mild sugar issues for decades mostly through strict brisk walking twice a day and eating very basic, home-cooked food. He completely avoided processed sugars and bakery items. That simple lifestyle really kept him active, though he still had regular checkups.

Before insulin, people basically survived on hope, water, and zero sweets, which sounds like my worst nightmare! Thank god we live in the 21st century where we can manage it with simple pills and still enjoy life. Just follow your doctor's advice and don't stress over it too much.