Glucagon - #18418
My father has had diabetes for years, and recently, he had a severe drop in blood sugar that made him dizzy and confused. The doctor said he needed an injection of glucagon to bring his sugar levels back up. I had never heard of glucagon before, but now I want to understand it better. How does Ayurveda view glucagon? If it’s a hormone that raises blood sugar, does that mean people with diabetes have trouble producing glucagon naturally? Can Ayurveda help balance glucagon levels without medication? Also, I read that glucagon is important for maintaining steady energy levels. Sometimes, I feel really weak and shaky between meals. Could that mean my body isn’t releasing enough glucagon? Are there any Ayurvedic foods or herbs that naturally support healthy glucagon function? The doctor said glucagon is the opposite of insulin. If insulin lowers sugar and glucagon raises it, does that mean someone with blood sugar issues should focus on balancing both? How does Ayurveda approach this balance? My father also experiences sugar spikes and crashes frequently. Instead of relying on emergency glucagon injections, are there Ayurvedic remedies to keep his sugar stable throughout the day? Are there lifestyle changes that can naturally improve glucagon function? Does exercise, sleep, or stress play a role? I want to help my father manage his condition in the best way possible.
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Doctors’ responses
In Ayurveda, blood sugar regulation is linked to Madhumeha (diabetes), which arises from imbalances in Kapha and Vata, affecting Agni (digestive fire) and Ojas (vital energy). Glucagon, which raises blood sugar, works opposite to insulin, and its imbalance may indicate Agni dysfunction. If your father experiences sugar crashes, his Jatharagni (metabolic fire) and liver function may need support. Ayurveda recommends Guduchi, Vijaysar, and Methi (fenugreek) to help regulate blood sugar and prevent extreme fluctuations. Small, frequent meals with complex carbs, Yashtimadhu (licorice), and Shatavari can help maintain steady glucose levels. Weakness and shakiness between meals may indicate Vata imbalance, which can be managed with warm, nourishing foods and herbs like Ashwagandha and Brahmi. Lifestyle plays a key role—regular meals, light exercise like yoga, stress reduction, and quality sleep all help balance insulin and glucagon naturally. Encourage your father to avoid excessive fasting, stay hydrated, and consume Ghee, which supports stable energy release. Ayurveda aims for long-term stability rather than emergency corrections, so gradual dietary and lifestyle changes will be most effective.
In Ayurveda, managing diabetes involves a holistic approach focusing on balancing all aspects of health, including diet, lifestyle, and emotional well-being. Glucagon does play a role in regulating blood sugar levels by increasing them, particularly when they drop too low. In individuals with diabetes, there can indeed be issues with the production of both insulin and glucagon, leading to imbalances that cause fluctuations in blood sugar.
To support healthy glucagon function, Ayurveda emphasizes maintaining a balanced diet that stabilizes blood sugar levels. Incorporating foods with a low glycemic index, such as whole grains like quinoa and barley, non-starchy vegetables, and legumes can provide steady energy and support balanced blood sugar. Herbs like fenugreek, bitter melon, and cinnamon are recognized in Ayurveda for their potential to stabilize blood sugar levels and improve overall metabolic health.
Regarding lifestyle changes, regular exercise—especially activities like yoga or brisk walking—can enhance insulin sensitivity and improve metabolic function, including glucagon secretion. Adequate sleep and stress management are crucial as chronic stress can lead to hormonal imbalances that affect blood sugar regulation. Practicing relaxation techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing, can be beneficial in this regard.
For your father’s sugar spikes and crashes, he might benefit from a consistent eating schedule, focusing on smaller, balanced meals and snacks throughout the day to maintain steady blood sugar levels. Including healthy fats and proteins in his meals can help slow down the absorption of carbohydrates, which is key for avoiding rapid increases and decreases in sugar levels.
Adopting these holistic principles can support your father’s overall health while managing his diabetes. It’s always essential to work closely with healthcare professionals when making significant changes to ensure they align with his medical needs.

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