Diabetes is a common health problem in the United States and other nations around the world. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, diabetes is the No. 6 cause of death among Americans. If you suffer from diabetes -- a condition in which your blood sugar levels are chronically elevated -- you are at risk for serious health complications. Before taking supplements to help regulate your diabetes, meet with your doctor to see if supplements are right for you.
About Diabetes
There are several types of diabetes, including Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes, notes the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition that accounts for about 5 to 10 percent of all cases of diabetes in the United States. Type 2 diabetes, the most common type of diabetes, is associated with physical inactivity, obesity and numerous other factors. Gestational diabetes is a much less common type of diabetes, affecting about 3 to 8 percent of pregnant women in the United States.
Helpful Diabetes Supplements
Many supplements have historically been used in treating diabetes. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, or NCCAM, reports that, although there is insufficient evidence that definitely proves supplements' ability to treat Type 2 diabetes, the following supplements may be helpful for this health purpose: omega-3 fatty acids, chromium, ALA and polyphenols -- the antioxidants found in tea and dark chocolate. Blueberry, jambul and gymnema are dietary supplements that may help regulate your blood sugar metabolism.
Highlighted Supplement
Chromium, an essential trace mineral, may be one of the most effective dietary supplements in treating your diabetes. According to the NCCAM, many diabetics ingest chromium supplements to help regulate their blood sugar levels and improve their blood glucose control. Chromium is found in small amounts in several food sources, including meat and certain spices, fruits and vegetables. The NCCAM states that short-term, low doses of this dietary supplement may be safe for most adults.
Considerations
Because diabetes is a condition that can cause serious health complications, it is extremely important that you manage your condition as best as possible. Dietary supplements are a gentle and often effective method for controlling your blood sugar levels and minimizing the negative health effects commonly associated with this condition. Before using dietary supplements to treat your diabetes, however, meet with your healthcare provider to discuss both the short-term and long-term effects of dietary supplements.
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