Question:
I usually take echinacea in winter to ward off colds, but I’ve heard it isn’t safe for people with diabetes type 1. Is there any truth to this?
Answer:
Diabetic Living endocrinologist Dr Sultan Linjawi says that diabetes experts focus on the immune-stimulating properties of echinacea. ‘There is concern that it may hasten the progression of some autoimmune diseases,’ Dr Linjawi says.
‘In type 1 diabetes, the worry is that echinacea may speed up the loss of pancreatic beta cells. Or that it could increase the likelihood of your developing additional autoimmune conditions.
‘The bottom line? Chat to your GP or diabetes specialist if you’re planning to use complementary therapies. Many drug, herb and vitamin interactions may be detrimental to your health. They might also reduce the effectiveness of your prescribed medications.’
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