Supplements are on option many people with Type 2 diabetes consider to help alleviate symptoms.
A doctor's advice is always best before taking any supplements, and here are six popular supplements to talk with a medical professional about that might help control some diabetic symptoms:
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- Chromium – About 15 years ago, this became a popular supplement among diabetics who thought that it lowered blood sugar naturally, according to Everyday Health. However, medical research on whether chromium actually affects blood sugar has not backed up that claim, the site said. In small doses, chromium is considered safe, although long-term use can have some negative consequences.
- Magnesium – This supplement supports healthy bone growth as well as blood pressure and muscle function, Everyday Health said.
- Omega-3 fatty acids – Although this supplement is supposed to help lower triglycerides, research has found it to have little impact on blood sugar, Everyday Health said. It is often prescribed for those with heart disease and high cholesterol and is available as supplements in oil and capsules.
- Antioxidant alpha-lipolic acid, or ALA – Found naturally in liver, spinach, and other foods, ALA fights cell damage, Diabetic Care Services reported. "According to a joint study between the Mayo Clinic and a Russian medical center, ALA supplements can reduce the pain, numbness and burning associated with the most common type of diabetic neuropathy," the site said.
- Polyphenols – This antioxidant occurs naturally in green tea and dark chocolate, and it is "believed to promote vascular heath and glucose control, as well as lower lipid levels," DCS said.
- Ginseng – According to WebMD, "Taking 3 grams of American ginseng by mouth, up to two hours before a meal, can lower blood sugar after a meal in patients with type 2 diabetes. However, larger doses do not seem to lower blood sugar more. Different American ginseng products may have different effects. Researchers think that is because they contain different amounts of the active chemicals called ginsenosides."
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WebMD site maintains a list of supplements and rates them "possibly effective," as well as "ineffective," for use in fighting the symptoms of diabetes.
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