Type 2 diabetes is a long-term health condition in which excessive glucose builds up in your blood. The National Health Service of the United Kingdom states that Type 2 diabetes, commonly referred to as diabetes mellitus, occurs when your body is not able to produce enough insulin or when your cells do not react properly to this important hormone. Dietary health supplements have long been used in treating Type 2 diabetes, but you should not ingest supplements until you have discussed their use with your family doctor.
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes often occurs gradually, and most people with this condition are overweight when they are diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. The National Center for Biotechnology Information states that common risk factors for the development of this condition include genetics, having a family history of Type 2 diabetes, being over 45 years of age, having low HDL cholesterol levels, elevated blood pressure or polycystic ovarian syndrome and being African American, Hispanic American or Native American.
Dietary Health Supplements
Dietary health supplements have long been used in treating Type 2 diabetes, though more scientific research studies may be necessary to validate the beneficial health effects of these substances. Russell B. Marz, a naturopathic physician and author of "Medical Nutrition From Marz," states that helpful dietary health supplements for Type 2 diabetes may include garlic, vitamins C and D, bioflavonoids, magnesium, zinc, niacin, biotin, vanadium, gymnema and vaccinium. Alpha-lipoic acid and vitamin B complex may also be helpful.
A Commonly Used Supplement
Gymnema is a commonly used dietary supplement in the treatment of Type 2 diabetes. Gymnena, notes Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," possesses hypoglycemic action -- the ability to restore your elevated blood sugar levels to normal. This dietary supplement may be helpful in boosting your pancreatic function when used for prolonged periods. Insulin-dependent diabetics may benefit from the use of this powerful herbal supplement.
Disclaimer
Type 2 diabetes is a serious health problem that requires appropriate management to help you avoid long-term health complications. Though dietary health supplements have long been used in treating this condition, some supplements may cause unexpected side effects. Avoid self-treating with dietary supplements until you have been properly counseled by a health-care professional specializing in clinical nutrition. Your doctor can provide you with relevant information about supplement dosage and how long you should take your supplements.
References
- National Health Service: Diabetes, Type 2
- National Center for Biotechnology Information: Type 2 Diabetes
- "Medical Nutrition From Marz;" Russell B. Marz, N.D.; 1999
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
