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If
you are diabetic, you may have heard about diabetic supplements. But,
how much of this is truth and how much hype. After all, does a
diabetic need supplements? Why?
Diabetics
need to keep their blood sugar levels down. In most cases, diabetics
may also need to lose weight. That means, they have to make sure that
their diet does not contain excess of sugar, salt, carbs, proteins or
fats. Due to strict diet control and due to changes in metabolism
brought about by diabetes, it is only natural that patients do not
get sufficient amounts of micro and macro nutrients from their diet.
For
instance, most people with diabetes are unable to metabolize Vitamin
C efficiently. This is because Vitamin C is transported into the
cells by insulin. So, insulin impaired cells cannot metabolize
Vitamin C.
From
the above example, it is clear that diabetics require nutritional
supplements for effective management of their condition. Some of the
important diabetic
supplements
include:
Chromium:
It is believed that low levels of chromium in the body could lead to
insulin resistance. Therefore, chromium supplements play an
important role in improving insulin sensitivity.
Omega
3 fatty acids:
These polyunsaturated fatty acids are vital for health as these help
prevent heart diseases in diabetic patients. Omega 3 may be ingested
through natural foods like fish, fish oil and vegetable oils. Tofu,
soyabeans, walnuts and flaxseed are rich in Omega 3. However, it is
recommended that patients take in Omega 3 supplements through
capsules at least twice a week (American Diabetes Association and
American Heart Association).
Magnesium:
Diabetics generally have low amounts of magnesium in their body. The
lack of magnesium may impact the heart, nerves, muscles and bones.
Although magnesium is found naturally in vegetables, nuts, seeds and
whole grains, most patients need supplementation in low doses. It
must be remembered that magnesium must be taken in after consulting
with a doctor as it can react with other medicines.
Alpha-Lipolic
Acid (ALA):
This is similar to vitamins and is a nutrient that releases
antioxidants into the body. In the absence of antioxidants, free
radicals may be released into the blood, and this has negative
effects on health. Sufficient amounts of ALA could improve insulin
sensitivity, prevent diabetic neuropathy and aid weight loss.
Naturally found in foods like spinach, broccoli, liver and potatoes,
ALA supplements have to be taken in as capsules.
Digestive
enzymes:
Digestive enzymes are beneficial because they help break down food
in the body. This increase nutrient absorption and improves overall
health.
Natural
Vitamin E:
Very useful as an antioxidant that eliminates free radicals in the
body. The natural form of this supplement is more desirable.
While
these are some of the important diabetic supplements, it is
recommended that you meet a physician before you start taking in
nutritional supplements.
