Diabetes is characterized by high blood sugar. Insulin is the hormone responsible for lowering blood sugar. Individuals with type 1 diabetes mellitus, or T1DM, do not produce enough insulin. Individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus, or T2DM, are insensitive to insulin and do not respond to its blood sugar-lowering capabilities. Consistently high blood sugars can cause nerve damage, vision problems, skin disorders and kidney disease. Supplements may help manage diabetes, but the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine says many have not been proved to be effective. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends consulting a physician before using alternative therapies to treat diabetes.
Chromium
Chromium is a mineral found in liver, brewer's yeast, cheese, meat, fish, fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Supplemental forms of chromium include chromium picolinate, chromium chloride and chromium nicotinate. According to the UMMC, evidence is mixed regarding chromium's effect on diabetes, but chromium may increase the body's sensitivity to insulin. Studies testing chromium supplements used 200 to 1,000mcg doses. However, the UMMC warns that individuals should not take more than 200mcg a day until the long-term safety of chromium is known. The NCCAM says chromium appears to be safe for short-term use but that high doses may cause kidney problems.
Fiber
According to the UMMC, fiber can help prevent T2DM and lower blood sugar. Psyllium is a supplemental form of soluble fiber that may improve cholesterol as well as blood sugar. Fiber supplements can cause gas and bloating. Negative side effects can be minimized by taking fiber supplements with plenty of water and starting with a low dose that gradually increases.
Antioxidants
Free radicals damage cells through a process called oxidation. Antioxidants protect the body by destroying free radicals. Higher levels of free radicals are associated with diabetes, but antioxidant supplements like vitamin E, selenium and zinc may improve diabetic symptoms and complications, according to the UMMC.
Alpha-Lipoic Acid
Alpha-lipoic acid, or ALA, is an antioxidant found in liver, spinach, broccoli and potatoes. It can also be taken as a supplement in a tablet or capsule. The NCCAM says ALA may increase insulin sensitivity, which will help lower blood sugar, and decrease the risk of diabetic complications. The NCCAM warns that diabetics who take ALA must monitor their blood sugar carefully to prevent it from going too low.
Other Supplements
The mineral vanadium may mimic insulin and lower blood sugar, according to the UMMC. Herbs that may help control diabetes include bitter melon, fenugreek, gymnema, cinnamon, American ginseng, prickly pear cactus, gurmar, Coccinia indica and aloe vera.
