Q: I am a diabetic since 1999. Initially i have managed with just diet control, but now i have to take one tablet of glyciphage in the morning and one in the night. My questions are,1. I found that taking 12 leaves of neem in the morning useful in controlling the glucose levels. Does it have any side effects in the long run.2. Is there any way i can control the gradual damage of the beta cells?

A:I should be safe to take the neem leaves, but I dont believe there are scientific studies on this.You can reduce the rate of loss of beta-cell function by exercising regularly and keeping to an ideal body weight. Drugs are not known to help in this.