Diabetes is a common condition characterized by abnormally high levels of glucose in the blood. Conventional treatment includes oral anti-diabetes medication and insulin injections. Adding more zinc from either food or supplements may improve your blood glucose levels, according to some research studies. If you are a diabetic and consider taking zinc supplements, talk to your doctor first.
Zinc & Health Benefits
Zinc is an essential mineral that is important for the growth and development of body tissues, as well as for bone health and skin repair. The amount of zinc needed by your body increases with age, according to Drugs.com. In conventional medicine, zinc supplements are recommended in case your blood test reveals a zinc deficiency. Alternative health care providers may recommend consuming more zinc-rich foods or taking a zinc supplement for diabetes, because this mineral plays an important role in the production of insulin. Thus, by boosting blood levels of zinc, you may be able to more efficiently use insulin and improve your glucose levels. Dietary sources of zinc include egg yolks, fish, brewer's yeast and whole grains.
Research
Clinical studies have evaluated the benefits of using various minerals for the management of diabetes for over 100 years, according to a research team from Japan led by Dr. H. Sakurai. Their study summarizes past research that linked the importance of using mineral supplements for diabetes and was published in October 2010 issue of "Metallomics: Integrated Biometal Science." The authors indicate that zinc and zinc-based compounds were found beneficial in improving symptoms of both type 1 and 2 diabetes in experimental studies conducted with animal models. Larger studies in humans are warranted to confirm these clinical findings.
Dosage
Dr. James Balch, MD, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," recommends between 50 to 80 mg of zinc daily for diabetics. He considers this supplement essential in managing diabetes based on the fact that diabetics tend to be deficient in this mineral. Dr. Balch recommends using zinc gluconate lozenges, because zinc gluconate is better absorbed by the body than other zinc supplements. Do not exceed 100 mg of zinc daily, as higher doses may depress your immune system, warns Dr. Balch.
Conclusions
If you suffer from diabetes, consult a qualified health care provider to find out optimal dosage of zinc supplements and possible drug or herb interactions. Consult a nutritionist to recommend a healthy diet that may further help you improve glucose levels. Keep in mind that zinc supplements do not replace and should not be used to replace any anti-diabetes drugs that you are currently taking. Zinc is not approved by U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat diabetes or any medical condition.
References
- Drugs.com: Zinc
- "Metallomics"; Metallo-allixinate Complexes With Anti-diabetic and Anti-metabolic Syndrome Activities; H. Sakurai et al; October, 2010
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; James Balch, MD, and Phyllis Balch, CNC; 2002
