Diabetes Nutritional Supplements

For diabetics, food restrictions and extensive medication make it difficult to maintain a safe, balanced diet. Often, food options are so limited that the patient suffers nutritional deficits that aggravate the disease. To compensate, many doctors recommend diabetes nutritional supplements. Usually taken daily, these supplements provide necessary vitamins and minerals in pure form, without the ingredients in food form that make them unsuitable for diabetics. There are several diabetes nutritional supplements available, and it can be hard to choose the right one for your needs. Here's a quick guide to choosing the right diabetes nutritional supplements.

Chromium

Chromium boosts the function of insulin and helps process sugars. it is found as a trace mineral in whole grains, brewer's yeast, wheat germ, fruits, vegetables, and vegetable oils. However, it works differently from one patient to another; you may need a doctor's prescription before taking chromium supplements.

Folic acid

Folid acid, also known as vitamin B9, aids in the production of red blood cells, making it useful for diabetics who suffer from anemia or low blood count. It also reduces homocysteine, an amino acid associated with stroke and coronary artery disease. It can also be found in oranges, peas, beans, and raw, dark green leafy vegetables.

Panax ginseng

Although its efficiency is doubted, ginseng has been proven at least once to lower blood glucose levels. It is best used along with other supplements, as its benefits are minimal. It is particularly effective for Type 2 diabetics.

Green tea

Green tea contains polyphenols, which fight free radicals that damage the cells and immune system. Free radicals are present in high amounts of glucose, making green tea particularly effective. Although not meant to be a sole medication, green tea is one of the most popular diabetes nutritional supplements.

Alpha lipoic acid (ALA)

Like green tea, ALA is also an antoxidant and eliminates free radicals. It also helps convert food into energy, preventing fatigue and enouraging exercise. Some studies also show that ALA can help reduce the risk of diabetic neuropathy.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon has been used in alternative medicine for centuries, but was only recently included among diabetes nutritional supplements. It helps fat cells react better with insulin and helps remove glucose. Also a main advantage is that cinnamon is easily mixed into food and drink, making it ideal for children who do not like taking pills or syrups. A dose of one half to one teaspoon daily is enough to meet the recommended intake.
 

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