People interested in managing their health in the most natural ways possible may consider treating type 2 diabetes with dietary supplements. Type 2 diabetes generally develops in adults rather than children and does not require daily insulin injections. It is ideally managed with a regimen based on healthy eating habits and regular exercise. If you have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, it is important to remain under a doctor's care, even if you are doing everything you can to support your health holistically. In addition to diet and exercise, there are at least four supplements that can effectively support your health when living with diabetes.
Glucose Tolerance Factor (GTF) chromium works with your body's naturally occurring insulin to help move glucose into cells. According to Dr. Andrew Weil, the recommended dose is 1,000 mcg daily.
Alpha-lipoic acid is an antioxidant that works against the abnormal attachment of glucose to protein. It is recommended for people with type 2 diabetes primarily as a method of protecting nerves and vision, since it is typical for diabetics to have problems with both over the long term. Start with 100 mg daily.
Magnesium is a mineral that assists in insulin production. The recommended dose is 400 mg daily. Large amounts of magnesium can have a laxative effect; try using magnesium glycinate to curb this.
Coenzyme Q10 is an antioxidant. CoQ10 (as it is often shortened to) does not directly affect insulin production in diabetics; it protects against heart disease. Take 60 to 100 mg daily. CoQ10 is best taken with the largest meal of your day to help with absorption.
What to Look for
As with any food or medicine, check the expiration date on the bottle to make sure you are getting the freshest product possible. Apart from that, there are no hard and fast rules to buying dietary supplements. It is probably best to shop for supplements in a health food store or other store that specializes in vitamins and supplements. A larger range of products are available, and the staff are more likely to be able to answer questions.
Common Pitfalls
Dietary supplements are regulated by the FDA as food rather than drugs. The manufacturer alone is responsible for statements on supplement labels. While this may portray dietary supplements as rather hit-and-miss in terms of quality, it is worth noting that manufacturers are responsible for the information on labels being truthful and accurate. While the FDA does not verify the statements made on supplement bottles before they hit the market, the agency can investigate and take action against a company making false claims.
Member Comments