Nutritional support is a very important and critical component in the handling of diabetes.
Diabetes can be managed using natural approaches including healthy diet practices, regular exercise and obviously, incorporating nutritional supplements.
Supplements are very essential in diabetic individuals knowing that elevated glucose levels causes most of the nutrients present in the body to be lost in the urine.
The substantial loss makes type II diabetic individuals to be deficient of important water soluble vitamins and minerals.
Nutritional supplements for diabetes also help maximize nutrient intake. This is paramount in order for the body to be supported in utilizing insulin, helping keep the body sugars at healthy levels.
It is therefore imperative that an individual with diabetes consume vitamin and mineral supplements on a daily basis.
The money spent on supplements can be costly but will the money go to good use?
If one is considering taking supplements, it’s best to mention about it with healthcare providers just to ensure that they do not interfere with any medications being taken.
Below are 10 supplements for diabetes that have been tried and tested in the management of diabetes.
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Supplements for Diabetes
1. Cinnamon
Research shows that cinnamon can improve blood sugar levels. One can sprinkle some cinnamon in a cup of coffee or tea.
It can also be added in some other food preparations such as oatmeal.
2. Chromium
Chromium is essential in making glucose tolerance factor which aids in insulin action.
It is a trace element that helps in the transportation of glucose to the cells.
Research shows that chromium helps reduce glucose levels.
Naturally, it can be found in foods such as meat, fish, rye bread, whole-wheat and fruits.
It is sold as a supplement in the form of chromium chloride, chromium nicotinate, and chromium picolinate.
3. Magnesium
Magnesium is a very essential element with a myriad of roles like promoting healthy bones and muscle function, as well as assists in normal heart rhythm and proper blood pressure.
Individuals with diabetes tend to have lower levels of the element hence consumption of supplements is very advisable.
Magnesium has also shown to reduce insulin resistance, helping keep blood sugar levels in check.
4. B-Complex Vitamins
B6 and B12 vitamins help in nerve health, making it essential for addressing conditions such as diabetic neuropathy. They also aid in metabolism and growth.
The vitamins improve glucose tolerance and hence very important supplements for diabetic individuals.
5. Alpha-Lipoic-Acid(ALA) and Gamma-Lipoic-Acid(GLA)
ALA is a versatile and potent anti-oxidant that can help in diabetic neuropathy and offer relief from pain due to free-radical damage.
It is naturally found in liver, broccoli and spinach. The supplements also help the body use insulin efficiently in regulating blood sugar levels.
GLA is also an antioxidant mainly found in evening primrose seed oil, blackcurrant seed oil, and borage oil. It helps improve damaged nerves after diabetic neuropathy.
6. Bitter Melon
It was traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine but recent studies have continually shown promising relevance in diabetic management.
Research found that it has some glucose lowering properties and are generally safe for most individuals.
It can be easily incorporated as an ingredient when preparing stews.
7. Ginseng
Studies show that taking American Ginseng for around 1 hour before meals can immensely reduce post food glucose levels.
However, it only has short-time effects and comes with side effects such as insomnia and nervousness.
The glucose lowering component varies widely and hence more studies are needed to determine its long-term dosage and usage.
8. Vanadium
It is a trace element found in both plants and animals. Research shows it is able to mimic insulin and hence lower blood sugar to healthy levels.
Taking in Vanadium increases insulin sensitivity and reduces the amount of insulin needed by diabetic individuals
9. Coenzyme Q10
This compound helps in carbohydrate metabolism. Studies have shown that individuals with diabetes are deficient in Coenzyme Q10.
Using this supplement significantly lowers blood sugar levels and also oxygenates the blood, helping in cases of diabetic retinopathy.
10. Omega-3- fatty acids
They are mainly found in fish, walnuts, and some vegetable oils. The supplements are available in oil or capsule forms.
Research has shown they improve insulin function, as well as lower glucose, triglycerides and cholesterol levels.
Clearly, supplements have a role in the management of diabetes but before you embark on using them, talk to your doctor just to be certain that they do not interfere with ongoing conventional diabetes treatments and therapies.
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