Diabetic Dietary Supplements

Diabetes is a disorder in which the pancreas in unable to produce insulin, or the body is insensitive to it. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels; consequently, diabetics suffer from drastically fluctuating blood sugar levels. There are two types of diabetes, type 1 is insulin-dependant and type 2 is not. A health diet and exercise should play a central role in the management of diabetes, and certain supplements can play a supporting role. Some supplements are toxic in high doses, however, so consult with your health care practitioner before taking any new dietary supplement.

Alpha-lipoic Acid

Alpha-lipoic acid, is a potent antioxidant, that is produced in the liver and protects against cellular damage. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, or NCCAM, some studies suggest that it helps the body to metabolize glucose and it may help to lower blood sugar levels. It may also improve insulin sensitivity, as well as prevent and treat diabetic neuropathy, which is a nerve disorder. NCCAM warns, however, that more research needs to be done to confirm the efficacy of alpha-lipoic acid supplements for the treatment of diabetes. Nevertheless, there are no reported serious side effects from alpha-lipoic acid, and if you choose to use a supplement, the recommended dose is 600 to 1,200 mg daily.

Fenugreek

Fenugreek is a green leafy herb that has been used throughout history for a variety of medicinal purposes. The herb is ground up and taken orally for the treatment of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Laura Shane-McWhorter says in her book "The American Diabetes Association: Guide to Herbs and Nutritional Supplements" that fenugreek may support tissue health in the pancreas and improve glucose and carbohydrate metabolism. It may also help to prevent high cholesterol, which is a common and potentially dangerous secondary condition in diabetics. Unfortunately only a few small studies have been done on fenugreek as a diabetes treatment, and it may cause side effects such as diarrhea and gas. It is generally recognized as safe however, and the therapeutic dose is 10 to 15 g daily.

Psyllium

Psyllium, is a soluble fiber supplement that may help reduce the effects of diabetes. When psyllium comes in contact with water during digestion, it forms a gel that slows the absorption of glucose into the small intestines. Shane-McWhorter says that it may help to reduce post-meal glucose spikes in diabetics. It also helps to reduce heart disease risk, by absorbing blood cholesterol, which is the leading cause of death in diabetics. For therapeutic purposes, take 5 g of psyllium two to three times daily.

Chromium

Chromium is an essential mineral that helps the body to use insulin more effectively and reduce insulin resistance. Scientists believe that chromium helps insulin to transport glucose from the blood into the cells, where it can be used for energy. The University of Maryland Medical Center, says that some studies have found it to reduce blood sugar levels as well as the amount of insulin required by diabetics. The therapeutic dose is 200 mcg daily, however chromium may interact with certain medications, so only take it under the supervision of your doctor.