There are many lifestyle changes, supplements and herbs for diabetes that my allow diabetics to live a more comfortable life. Diabetes in the United States has doubled in the last ten years, and is a growing problem with over 23 million people diagnosed. In fact, 7.8% of the population of the US is diabetic, according to the American Diabetes Association. Diabetes is an insidious disease and is now the sixth leading cause of death in the US, clearly a wake up call that something needs to change. Most supplements and herbs that are supposed to be helpful to diabetics are ones that lower blood sugar or stabilize blood sugar levels, increase insulin sensitivity or act as antioxidants.
Bitter melon is thought to increase insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels. Bitter melon is also thought to improve the immune system. Bitter melon is not recommended for pregnant women and side effects of bitter melon include diarrhea, fever, abdominal pain or headache. A study done in the Philippines revealed that a 100 milligram per kilo dose per day is comparable to 2.5 milligrams of the anti-diabetes drug Glibenclamide taken twice per day.
Magnesium may help pre-diabetics stave off diabetes. According to JAMA, “Eating foods rich in magnesium such as whole grains, nuts, and leafy green vegetables may prove to be a cost-effective approach to reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes…” It is also believed by many that magnesium supplementation improves insulin sensitivity. The Recommended Daily Allowance, RDA, of magnesium is 6mg.
Alpha Lipoic Acid may be used to control blood sugar as it is a potent antioxidant. High doses of ALA can lead to fatigue, insomnia, and overexcitement, so take care not to take too much. Many sources recommend not taking more than 50 mg a day unless under the care of a physician.
Additional supplements and herbs for diabetes are garlic which is believed to boost immunity and reduce blood sugar levels, and improve circulation, chromium picolinate which is thought to improve the capability of insulin to lower blood sugar, and spirulina which may stabilize blood sugar. It is also possible that some diabetics have unknown food allergies that cause them to be overweight. It makes sense to have a food allergy testing done, including corn which is ever-present in processed food in America, making it difficult to pinpoint. Diabetics can benefit from daily exercise too, as it also aids blood sugar stabilization.
Supplements and herbs for diabetes can be found at every health food store and most supermarkets. But which ones work? How do you know if they are safe? Have any of these been tested, or do doctors prescribe these in conjunction with medications? While there is a lot of data available on herbs for diabetes, there isn’t enough data on most herbs to say that they will work or replace a traditional medical approach. The NIH states that, “Scientists have identified specific genes that make people more likely to develop insulin resistance and diabetes. Excess weight and lack of physical activity also contribute to insulin resistance.” So, exercise, eat right and take care of yourself. While herbs and supplements can be helpful to many, make sure you discuss your plans with your doctor before trying any herbs or supplements.
Learn more about herbal supplements. Stop by Herbal Supplements Today where you can find out about herbs for diabetes and what they can do for you.
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