Diabetes is a condition characterized by problems with the production of the hormone insulin and consequently an inability of the body to regulate levels of glucose, or sugar, in the blood. Diet and exercise are crucial for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, and insulin is required by all type 1 diabetics. Certain vitamins and minerals can play a supporting role in diabetes treatment, but be sure to consult your health care practitioner before starting any new supplement.
Chromium
Chromium is a mineral found naturally in foods such as high-bran cereals, whole grains, broccoli, egg yolks, brewer's yeast and nuts. According to Laura Shane-McWhorter in her book "The American Diabetes Association: Guide to Herbs and Nutritional Supplements," a supplemental form called chromium picolinate might be helpful for the regulation of blood glucose levels in type 1 and 2 diabetics. She explains that the body needs chromium to metabolize glucose and that it might help enhance insulin production. Although some studies have shown conflicting results with chromium for these purposes, side effects are rarely serious, and the typical recommended dose is 200 mcg or higher daily.
Magnesium
Magnesium is an essential mineral found in foods such as green leafy vegetables, legumes, grains, seeds, nuts, meat and dark chocolate. Low levels of magnesium have been correlated with an increased chance of developing insulin resistance, and it is estimated that between 25 and 38 percent of type 2 diabetics are low in it. According to McWhorter, supplementing with magnesium might help regulate blood glucose levels and treat diabetic complications such as nerve disease, eye disease and foot ulcers. More long-term studies need to be done to confirm the efficacy of magnesium, and high doses might cause diarrhea and/or interact with certain medications. As such, you should emphasize magnesium-rich foods and take a supplement only if your doctor approves.
B Vitamins
Vitamin B7, commonly referred to as biotin, has a synergistic effect on insulin, meaning it supports and enhances its effectiveness. B7 also increases levels of a substance called glucokinase, which is required for the metabolism of glucose; glucokinase levels are often lower in diabetics. Supplementing with biotin might therefore help reduce glucose levels in type 1 and 2 diabetics. B vitamins work best when they are taken together, and the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition recommends taking B-complex, a supplement that contains the most important B vitamins, daily. B-complex will also support nervous system health and might help to prevent diabetic neuropathy.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant found in foods such as oranges and other such citrus fruit, berries, broccoli and peppers. Many type 1 diabetics are low in vitamin C, which is problematic because vitamin C is thought to help lower levels of sorbitol, a type of sugar, in the bloodstream. When sorbitol accumulates in the blood, it might increase the risk for diabetic complications such as retinopathy, neuropathy and kidney damage. More research needs to be done, but vitamin C might also be beneficial to type 2 diabetics because it is thought to improve glucose tolerance. The recommended therapeutic dose is between 1 and 3 g daily, or 1,000 to 3,000 mg.
References
- Canadian School of Natural Nutrition; "Pathology and Nutrition"; 2008
- "American Diabetes Association: Guide to Herbs and Nutritional Supplements"; Laura Shane-McWhorter; 2009
- Diabetes.co.uk: Diabetes, Vitamins and Dietary Supplements
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