10 You Should Know About Diabetes and Supplementation

The majority of people affected by diabetes are unaware that they have it until their doctor makes them aware of it. This is not surprising information since elevated blood glucose, the most important indicator of diabetes, occurs without symptoms. Experts estimate that over 23 million people in the United States have diabetes and while family history is a key factor thereby being out of our control, certainly there are many other factors that are within our control. For instance, achieving a healthy body weight, exercising regularly and working closely with a doctor are major keys to better diabetes management. In addition, taking certain supplements and understanding how certain situations such as pregnancy and menopause for women impacts diabetes is important. Below are answers to ten commonly asked questions by people trying to manage their diabetes.

1. Can nutrition supplements help people manage blood sugar levels?

There are a few supplements that can support healthy blood sugar (glucose) levels, but of course, it is necessary to discuss them with your physician before beginning any of them. Among the more promising supplements is cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia). This commonly used spice is sprinkled onto coffee and used in candies and pastries but can also help manage blood glucose levels. The results of some (but not all) research studies suggest that cinnamon extract supplements can lower blood glucose levels in some people with type 2 diabetes, the most common form of diabetes. In addition, some people might benefit from chromium supplementation (as chromium picolinate) and/or American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius).

2. Are there any supplements that can help people with diabetes preserve their eyesight?

That’s an excellent question. Diabetes increases the risk of degenerative eye disorders because of the damage uncontrolled blood glucose can cause to small blood vessels and nerves in the eyes. Clearly, the most important course of action is to work with your physician to control your blood glucose levels and to eat a diet that is appropriate in calories and rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains. In addition, you can also take supplements that contain antioxidants such as vitamins E and C as well as lutein and zeaxanthin. The latter two nutrients are carotenoids that are concentrated in the eye and are associated with a decreased risk of degenerative eye disorders.  

3. Diabetes doubles the risk of developing heart disease. What supplements should you take to help protect yourself?

Heart disease is a complex condition resulting from years of insult to blood vessel walls. In addition to working with your physician to see if any medications are appropriate for you, supplements and functional foods can most certainly help. For instance, phytosterols, oat and barley bran, and psyllium fiber can help lower cholesterol. Meanwhile, omega-3 fat from fish (and algae) can support a healthier heart by lowering triglyceride levels and working to decrease inflammation and improve blood vessel health. In addition to a well balanced diet, taking a multivitamin/mineral supplement with folate, vitamins E, C, B₆, B₁₂ and calcium, potassium, copper, manganese, selenium, iron and zinc can support a healthier heart. You can also consider policosinol, pomegranate, grape seed and grape skin extracts.

4. Often people with diabetes struggle with their weight. Are there supplements that can help with both problems?

One thing that has become clear over the last couple of decades is the fact that weight gain and the increased incidence of type 2 diabetes are definitely interrelated. This concept is reinforced by the fact that an overwhelming majority of people diagnosed with type 2 diabetes are also overweight. On the other hand, when an overweight individual loses weight (body fat), their diabetes tends to improve. Knowing this, the most important means to promoting a healthier body weight and improving diabetes is in eating an appropriate level of calories to achieve a healthier body weight and exercising regularly (including both aerobic and resistance exercise). When considering supplements, try soluble fibers such as glucomannan and psyllium before meals. Soluble fibers can expand in the stomach thereby slowing digestion and improving blood sugar levels and decreasing eating by promoting a feeling of fullness. Protein is also linked to better hunger control and when substituted for carbohydrate in the diet, it can help lower blood glucose levels. Lastly, green tee extract can be helpful by providing metabolism boosting caffeine as well as other substances which might support weight loss.

 5. People with diabetes are prone to depression. What can you do to prevent or manage it?

While most people are not clinically depressed, there is a greater risk of depression for a person with diabetes. The reason why isn’t clear but perhaps it is the on-going attention, management and control. However, one thing is for sure, there is help and support available. Begin by talking to your doctor, especially if there is the possibility that medications could be contributing to symptoms of depression. Additionally, your doctor will be able to determine if there is something else going on internally such as hypothyroidism. At the very least, he or she will be able to guide you to a qualified mental care professional.  

6. What supplements can help with the numbness and tingling in the feet caused by diabetic neuropathy?

Diabetic neuropathy is generally the result of long term elevated blood glucose levels and the development of damage to nerve endings in extremities such as fingers and toes. One supplement worth considering is benfotiamine, a unique form of thiamin (vitamin B1) found in garlic, onions, leeks and shallots. Researchers have been testing this form of thiamin to reduce the factors that lead to diabetic neuropathy and the symptoms that women complain about in regard to it. Alpha lipoic acid is also worthy of consideration based on promising research that suggests it can minimize these same symptoms as well. Also, don’t forget to take a multivitamin and mineral supplement with 100% of the Daily Value of B-vitamins, namely thiamin, vitamin B₆ and B₁₂.

7. What supplements can help with the sexual problems people with diabetes may face?

Diabetes can impact blood flow and nerve activity in a man or woman’s sexual organs thereby resulting in a loss of sensation and decreased satisfaction. This condition is likely to be the result of years of uncontrolled blood glucose levels which leads to glucose sticking to proteins and damaging blood vessels and nerves. You can try supplements such as benfotiamine, yohimbine and arginine or citrulline. However, if you think the issue is more “upstairs” than “downstairs” talk to your doctor about supplements such as DHEA, theanine and tryptophan that target the brain and the chemicals that can impact sexual desire and focus.

8. The drugstores shelves are filled with vitamins for diabetics. Are they different from one-a-day multi vitamins? What vitamins/supplements should you look for if you have diabetes?

There are hundreds of different multivitamin and mineral products and other supplements on the market today so it can be difficult to choose the right one. The bottom line is that a lot of supplements are very similar; utilizing the same nutrients from the same suppliers. Begin by looking for reputable brands, with clear, believable marketing statements. Also, look for indications of quality on the label such as statements about Good Manufacturing Practices or GMP, which indicates that the product is produced under approved conditions. Also, some products will contain unique and or patented ingredients that are not available in any other or most products. This means that the brand might have something special, or that other brands have “passed” on the ingredient or blend.  Be sure to research these ingredients before pulling out the credit. You are certainly welcome to Ask TheNutritionDr.com.