If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, then you will know it’s all about your insulin levels. Ensuring that you maintain balanced levels is essential and comes hand in hand with regular blood sugar monitoring and in some cases, insulin administration.
Whether you are taking medication for your diabetes or looking for natural ways to manage the condition, you are probably asking the question ‘are there any supplements to lower blood sugar naturally’. Rest assured that we have you covered. Continue reading to learn more about supplements for diabetes.
Managing Your Condition
The most common type of diabetes is type 2, where the body does not make or use insulin well. This can develop at any time but is generally associated with those who are older. No matter when diabetes strikes, it’s important to identify a treatment plan that works for you. There are many ways in which you can manage your blood sugar levels including:
- Making healthy food choices
- Increasing levels of physical activity
- Prioritising sleep quality
- Managing stress levels
Individuals with diabetes also find that some supplements can help. Remember it’s important to find a solution that works for you and your condition, a one-size-fits-all approach cannot be adopted here.
Let’s Talk About Supplements for Diabetes
When used correctly alongside a healthy lifestyle, supplements can help to balance your blood sugar levels. By addressing certain vitamin and mineral deficiencies, you can ensure that you consume a well-rounded selection of nutrients. But it’s crucial to identify the right balance for your needs so that you achieve the right consumption levels. Here is a list of supplements that individuals with diabetes find beneficial.
Magnesium
Essential for insulin function, magnesium aids your body’s ability to process glucose. Magnesium can be found in many foods including legumes, seeds, nuts, whole grains and spinach but often individuals with diabetes are deficient. If tests show you to be deficient, consider taking a magnesium supplement to boost your levels. Associated with other health benefits, it is a versatile diabetes supplement.
Berberine
Used medicinally for thousands of years in some form, studies have shown berberine to have beneficial effects for those with diabetes. Associated with lowering blood glucose levels, reducing insulin resistance and improving lipid metabolism, this plant supplement can help you to manage the condition. While safe to consume in low doses, you should seek advice from a professional about the best dosage for your specific needs to minimise the risk of side effects.
Chromium
Found in a variety of foods such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables, chromium is an essential trace mineral that helps your body to use glucose more effectively. It’s also been associated with supporting the activity of pancreatic cells that produce insulin. There can be some undesirable side effects of consuming chromium supplements, and the long-term effects haven’t yet been identified, so it’s crucial to seek the advice of a professional before incorporating this supplement into your diet.
Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA)
ALA has commonly been studied for its effect on improving blood sugar and fat levels in those with diabetes and many individuals find it to be a useful supplement to take. A powerful antioxidant, it may help to decrease fasting blood sugar levels and enhance insulin sensitivity. Although most research has found the supplement to be safe and not lead to any adverse effects, it’s important to consult a professional before consumption.
What Vitamins Should Diabetics Avoid?
Although diabetics generally benefit from a nourishment of vitamins and minerals, there are some that you should take steps to avoid due to their impact on blood sugar levels.
Niacin
Also known as vitamin B3, niacin is often used to manage cholesterol levels. In doing so, it also raises glucose levels which makes it potentially dangerous to those with diabetes if used in high amounts. If you are looking to consume niacin, you should consult with a professional about the right dosage for your needs.
Ginseng
A herbal supplement, ginseng has shown promising capabilities in reducing post-meal blood sugar levels as well as improving symptoms of fatigue, reducing your inflammation levels and boosting your immunity. But as with any supplement, it’s important to consume it with caution because it could cause blood sugar levels to drop too low when taken with some medications. If you find your heart rate increases, you feel dizzy or experience other symptoms of hypoglycaemia, consume a fast-acting sugar.
Managing Diabetes with a Naturopath
If you are looking for herbal and natural ways to manage your diabetes, then we recommend seeking naturopathy treatment for diabetes. Unlike other professionals, a naturopath delves into every aspect of your life to identify the best course of treatment for your specific needs. They will discuss your diet, your lifestyle habits, your stress levels, sleep quality, family history and much more. In doing so, they will create a personalised treatment plan that is unique to you.
Specialising in holistic and natural wellness, you can consume any recommended supplements with confidence, safe in the knowledge that they will work positively with your diabetes.
Do You Want to Learn More?
Discover more about the services that a naturopath can provide by getting in touch with Naturopathic Wellness today. Optimise your diet, lifestyle and health with our experts. With over 25 years in the industry, you can rest assured that you are in capable hands.
Get started today by booking a consultation online or calling us on 0412 292 171. Offering both online and face-to-face naturopath therapy appointments, you can access our services from anywhere in Australia. We look forward to hearing from you soon.
