11 Supplements to Help Lower Blood Sugar Naturally

From verywellhealth.com

Some supplements like chromium, cinnamon, and omega-3s may help with blood sugar control or reduce diabetes-related risks. However, research is mixed, and some supplements can cause serious side effects, so always check with your healthcare provider before using them.

1. Alpha-Lipoic Acid

Alpha-lipoic acid is a fatty acid that acts as an antioxidant and has been studied for diabetes and its complications. However, the evidence is limited, and the research is mixed.

• One review found that alpha-lipoic acid did not lower blood sugar, triglycerides, or cholesterol in people with type 2 diabetes.
• Another review shows neuropathy (a symptom of diabetes) improved for participants taking the supplement, while other research didn't show improvement.
• There is no evidence that alpha-lipoic acid helps with nephropathy (kidney damage) or macular edema.

Safety

At normal doses, alpha-lipoic acid is considered safe, even for people with heart disease, diabetes, and neurological conditions. Side effects may include headache, nausea, and vomiting.

2. Cinnamon

In one study, cinnamon supplements lowered fasting blood sugar and insulin resistance in people with type 2 diabetes and prediabetes. However, more research is needed.

Other reviews show that cinnamon significantly reduced blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

Safety

Cinnamon is safe for most people at doses below 6 grams (g) daily. However, there have been reports of high coumarin levels in species like cassia cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia). Over time, too much coumarin can cause liver toxicity and cancer.

True cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum), also known as Ceylon or Sri Lankan Cinnamon, tends to have lower levels of coumarin.

3. Magnesium

Higher levels of the mineral magnesium in the body are associated with a lower risk of diabetes. Magnesium lowers blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes and improves insulin sensitivity in people at risk of developing diabetes. Magnesium supplements are available in many different formulations, but magnesium oxide has been studied the most extensively in clinical trials for diabetes.

Safety

Experts recommend limiting magnesium doses to 350 milligrams (mg) daily. You may get magnesium from your food, including fortified products like cereals. At higher doses, magnesium supplements are associated with diarrhoea, nausea, and stomach cramps.

4. Chromium

Chromium is a trace element in foods like meat, grains, and produce. It may enhance the effects of insulin and help break down sugars, but more research is needed.

One review concluded that chromium supplementation modestly improved haemoglobin A1c levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Chromium did not improve fasting blood sugar or cholesterol levels.

Safety

Chromium with insulin or metformin may cause hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar), so experts recommend that people taking these medications avoid chromium supplements. Signs of hypoglycaemia include shakiness, headache, and a fast heart rate. Side effects of chromium include weight loss, anaemia, kidney failure, and skin rash.

5. Zinc

Some research suggests that zinc may help protect against type 2 diabetes. A review of studies found that a moderately high intake of zinc was associated with a 13% reduction in the risk of type 2 diabetes. The effect was more pronounced for people living in rural areas, who experienced a 41% reduction in risk.

6. Vitamin D

Research shows that getting enough vitamin D may help prevent type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It also found that it may help reduce blood sugar in people with prediabetes.

Supplementing with vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) 2,000 international units (IU) daily can help manage or prevent type 1 diabetes. Taking at least 1,000 IU daily for a year or more significantly lowered the odds of developing type 2 diabetes. Lower doses of vitamin D had no effect on diabetes risk.

Safety

The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) of vitamin D for adults is 600 IU or 15 mcg. You can get vitamin D from fortified products like orange juice, cereals, and milk. You can also get adequate vitamin D from sun exposure. High doses of vitamin D from supplements may cause kidney stones, nausea, vomiting, muscle weakness, and more.

7. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Research determined that omega-3 fatty acids help decrease blood sugar and insulin resistance. Other studies suggest that eating more omega-3 fatty acids helps protect against type 2 diabetes and may reduce blood sugar in people with prediabetes.

However, another review showed that omega-3 fatty acids had no significant effects on blood sugar or insulin resistance. Omega-3 fatty acids did improve levels of:

• Haemoglobin A1c
• Total cholesterol
• High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (considered "good")
• Triglycerides

Safety

Omega-3 fatty acids don't typically cause severe side effects. However, high levels (over 4 g per day) of omega-3s have modestly increased the risk of atrial fibrillation in people with, or at risk for, cardiovascular disease. Omega-3s may also cause bad breath, heartburn, nausea, or diarrhoea. They may also increase the effects of blood-thinning medication and cause excess bleeding.

8. Berberine

Research shows that berberine may help control blood sugar in people with prediabetes. One review showed that berberine, with or without standard diabetes medicines, improved the following measurements related to diabetes control:

• Haemoglobin A1c
• Blood sugar two hours after eating (postprandial)
• Insulin resistance
• Body mass index (BMI)
• Total cholesterol
• Triglycerides
• Inflammation

Berberine plus standard diabetes medicine had greater effects, but even berberine alone showed modest benefits on haemoglobin A1c and fasting blood sugar levels.

Safety

Berberine should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding as it may cause jaundice or brain damage in infants who are exposed to it. Side effects of berberine include constipation and diarrhoea.

9. Probiotics

In people with type 2 diabetes, a few studies have found that probiotics may help reduce:

Tao YW, Gu YL, Mao XQ, Zhang L, Pei YF. Effects of probiotics on type II diabetes mellitus: A meta-analysis. J Transl Med. 2020;18(1):30. doi:10.1186/s12967-020-02213-2.

• Haemoglobin A1C
• Fasting plasma glucose (FBG)
• Insulin resistance
  

10. Aloe Vera

A few studies have found that aloe vera supplements may reduce fasting blood sugar in people with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes. However, the research into this supplement is limited, and larger studies are needed to prove its effect conclusively.

11. Gymnema

Gymnema contains several pharmacologically active compounds, some of which may have anti-diabetic properties. However, more research is needed before scientists can understand how gymnema affects people with diabetes and how it can be used safely.

What Supplements Should a Diabetic Not Take?

Certain supplements can affect your blood sugar and/or interact with your medications. If you have diabetes, talk to your healthcare provider before taking: 

• Vitamin E: May interact with blood thinners such as Jantoven (warfarin)
• St. John's wort: May cause a build-up of metformin in the body and affect glucose levels
• Ginseng: May reduce blood sugar, but can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar when taken with insulin or metformin
  

Key Takeaways

• Some supplements, such as cinnamon, berberine, and vitamin D, may help control blood sugar, but they should not replace prescribed diabetes medications.
• Other supplements, such as gymnema, aloe vera, and probiotics, have also positively impacted people with diabetes. However, more research is needed. Some supplements may interact with your medications. These include vitamin E, St. John's wort, and ginseng.

https://www.verywellhealth.com/supplements-for-diabetes-11771868 

6 essential nutrients for diabetes management: Don’t overlook!

From healthshots.com

Good nutrition not only controls glucose levels but also keeps you energetic. Here are the essential nutrients for diabetes that should be a part of your daily diet

Your food habits have a significant impact on your overall health, especially when it comes to managing your blood sugar levels. For example, following a high-potassium diet can increase heart risks in people with diabetes. However, consuming a fibre-rich diet can help control blood sugar and aid weight management, which may be a common challenge for diabetics. This is the reason why it is important that people with diabetes get the right nutrients in the right amount. This will not only manage blood sugar levels but can also help improve your overall health.

6 essential nutrients for diabetes

Now you know why you need to keep a check on your diabetes diet. Check out these 6 essential nutrients that should be added to your daily diet:

1. Fibre

Fibre can help regulate blood glucose levels and slow down sugar absorption, according to a study published by the Public Library of Science Medicine. There are two types of fibres, soluble and insoluble. “Soluble fibre is found in fruits, beans, and oats and helps manage blood sugar levels by slowing the rate at which sugar enters the bloodstream,” explains Nutritionist Dr Rohini Patil. Insoluble fibre, found in whole grains and nuts, aids in digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness, which can help with weight management.

                          Eating high-fibre fruits and vegetables helps with managing diabetes. Image courtesy: Freepik

2. Magnesium

Magnesium plays a vital role in insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. Research published by the World Journal of Diabetes indicates that people with diabetes often have low magnesium levels. And magnesium deficiency can increase the risk of poor glycaemic control. Leafy green vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains are packed with magnesium and can help maintain better blood sugar control.

3. Vitamin D

In addition to being crucial for the immune system and bone health, vitamin D may also play a role in glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity. According to a study published by Curēus, low levels of vitamin D are associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. Therefore, to manage diabetes, you should maintain a sufficient intake of vitamin D through sun exposure and consuming fortified food, fatty fish, and eggs.

4. Chromium

It is a trace mineral that enhances the action of insulin and is essential for maintaining normal glucose metabolism. “Chromium supplementation has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and lower fasting blood glucose levels,” says Dr Patil. Green beans, broccoli, barley, oats, and almonds are good sources of chromium.

5. Zinc

Although a study published by the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, reveals that zinc is a crucial vitamin for controlling blood sugar, it also suggests that more evidence is required to support this fact. However, when consumed in the right amount, zinc plays a role in the production and secretion of insulin, controlling blood sugar levels. Foods rich in zinc include meat, shellfish, legumes, seeds, and nuts.

                                                    Manage diabetes with zinc-rich foods. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock

6. Potassium

Potassium helps regulate fluid balance, muscle contractions, and nerve signals. It also plays a role in controlling blood pressure, which is crucial for people with diabetes who are at a higher risk of hypertension. A study published by the Expert Review of Endocrinology and Metabolism reveals that lower levels of potassium is associated with a higher risk of diabetes. You must eat foods high in potassium, which include bananas, oranges, potatoes, tomatoes, and spinach.

Antioxidants are also important!

Apart from all these nutrients mentioned above, antioxidants also help combat oxidative stress, which is higher in people with diabetes and can lead to various complications, according to a study published by the Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism. Vitamins C and E, along with beta-carotene, are potent antioxidants. They can be found in a variety of fruits and vegetables, such as berries (such as strawberries and blackberries), citrus fruits, carrots, and spinach. Incorporating these foods into the diet can help protect cells from damage and improve overall health.

9 tips to manage blood sugar levels

While it is important to eat a healthy diet to manage diabetes, here are some other ways to help you keep blood sugar levels in check:

• Keep a check on your blood glucose levels to understand how food, exercise, and medications affect your blood sugar levels.
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help maintain blood sugar control and prevent dehydration.
• Focus on a balanced diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables.
• To manage blood sugar levels, avoid processed foods and sugary drinks.
• Take your medications as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Proper foot care is crucial to prevent infections. So, check them daily for any cuts, blisters, or swelling.
• If you have a habit of daily smoking, quit it today to manage insulin resistance.
  Engage in physical activity such as walking, cycling, or swimming, to help regulate blood sugar levels.
• Stress can affect blood sugar levels, so practice meditation, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises to manage it.

Make sure you are following these tips and consuming foods rich in the above-mentioned nutrients to manage diabetes.

https://www.healthshots.com/healthy-eating/nutrition/nutrients-for-diabetes/

Can zinc help with the management of type 2 diabetes?

From medicalnewstoday.com

Zinc is an important nutrient that can help the immune system and may reduce the risk of certain illnesses. Some evidence suggests that zinc may be beneficial for the management of type 2 diabetes. Other research notes a potential link between zinc deficiency and diabetes. However, more research is necessary.

Trusted SourceType 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, affecting more than 37 million Americans. It occurs when a person does not respond typically to insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar.

Zinc is a nutrient that occurs naturally in many foods, such as beans, meat, and fish. People can also take it as a dietary supplement. It helps support a number of functions in the body, most notably helping the immune system, as it possesses antioxidant properties. While zinc deficiencies are rare in the United States, they may occur if a person’s diet lacks adequate nutrition.

Due to the possible health benefits of zinc, some evidence notes it might have a protective effect against diabetes and may improve the prognosis for those living with this condition.

In this article, we discuss the potential connection between diabetes and zinc, including whether zinc can help manage type 2 diabetes.

Is zinc beneficial for type 2 diabetes?

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Stefania Pelfini, La Waziya Photography/Getty Images

More research is necessary to understand the association between zinc and type 2 diabetes. Some evidence notes that there may be a link between zinc deficiencies and the development of diabetes. Research also suggests zinc supplementation helps reduce risk factors for developing diabetes and assists with managing the condition.

A 2020 studyTrusted Source found that people with diabetes are more likely to have a zinc deficiency than those without the condition. The researchers also suggest that individuals with glycaemic control issues also led to lower zinc levels. Similarly, a 2021 study also states that low zinc levels are a good indicator of issues with glycaemic control in older adults with type 2 diabetes.

As such, this may suggest that zinc supplementation may help with the management of diabetes as an adjunct therapy. A 2022 study indicates that zinc may help due to its antioxidant properties. Relatedly, a 2019 meta-analysisTrusted Source found that zinc supplementation may improve glycaemic control, leading the authors to conclude that zinc supplementation could prevent and help manage diabetes.

Another 2019 meta-analysis also suggests that a moderately high dietary zinc intake could reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes by 13%Trusted Source. A 2020 systematic review and meta-analysis indicates that low dose, long-duration zinc intake from supplements and food may reduce risk factors for the condition.

Therefore, zinc could benefit the management of diabetes. However, lower zinc levels may coincide with non-nutritious eating habits that may contribute to the development of the condition. As such, more research is necessary to fully understand the relationship between diabetes and zinc.

Sources of zinc

While zinc is present in many foods, some research estimates that roughly 17%Trusted Source of people worldwide have a zinc deficiency. Generally, most individuals can consume an adequate amount of zinc from dietary sources. Such foods can includeTrusted Source:

• red meat
• poultry
• seafood, such as oysters, crab, and lobster
• fortified breakfast cereals
• beans
• nuts
• whole grains
• dairy products

Zinc is also available in supplements that people can have in addition to dietary sources to ensure a sufficient intake of the nutrient. However, before taking supplements, it may be advisable to seek a doctor’s advice.

Risks and considerations

It is important for individuals to get an accurate impression of their dietary zinc needs. Although zinc is a very important dietary element, consuming too much can result in zinc toxicity, which can cause problems. A 2022 paperTrusted Source lists the following as possible side effects of excessive zinc intake:

• gastric irritation
• vomiting
• nausea
• gastric haemorrhage

Additionally, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) note that a regular excessive intake of 150-450 milligramsTrusted Source a day of zinc may lead to:

• low copper levels
• changes in iron function
• reduced immune function
• reduced levels of “good,” high-density lipoprotein cholesterol
• urogenital problems

Other zinc benefits

In addition to its potential beneficial effects on diabetes, evidence notes that zinc may possess many other health benefits.

Evidence notes that the body uses zinc for many different purposes, includingTrusted Source wound healing, cell growth, and cell division. Sufficient zinc levels are necessary for a properly functioning immune system and could helpTrusted Source prevent severe complications from diseases, such as pneumonia, malaria, and diarrhoea. Additionally, it is also essential for growth and development.

Other diabetes management tips

In some cases, it is possible for an individual to prevent or delay type 2 diabetes by implementing certain lifestyle changes. This can include regular exercise and maintaining a moderate weight.

Similarly, a 2020 studyTrusted Source notes that incorporating healthy lifestyle choices can also help manage type 2 diabetes or potentially put it into remission. In addition to managing weight and regular physical activity, it recommends eating a nutritious diet, stopping smoking if applicable, and managing stress.

In some cases, a person may also require medicationsTrusted Source to help them manage the condition. A doctor could recommend suitable medications to help individuals control their blood sugars and delay or prevent the harmful effects of diabetes.

Summary

Type 2 diabetes is a common condition that can significantly affect an individual’s health. Some research suggests that adequate zinc levels could help prevent the development of diabetes and make the condition easier to manage. However, more research is necessary to fully understand the relationship between zinc and diabetes.

While further research is still necessary, evidence notes that incorporating healthy lifestyle changes, which can include a nutritious diet with sufficient zinc, may help prevent or delay type 2 diabetes and assist in managing blood sugars.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/zinc-and-diabetes-type-2