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What Supplements Are Good for Diabetes?

There are many supplements on the market that claim to support diabetes care. They are available as fresh herbs, herbal extracts, capsules, tablets and combination formulas of different beneficial supplements for diabetes.

  1. Expert Insight

    • According to Dr. Andrew Weil, alpha-lipoic acid supports nerve and eye health, as well as glucose absorption. Magnesium and glucose-tolerance-factor chromium support insulin production and activities.

    Recommendations

    • Dr. Weil also recommends gymnema sylvestre, bitter melon and prickly-pear cactus extracts for diabetes. Gymnema sylvestre, an Indian herb, may raise the serum insulin, while lowering the blood glucose levels. Bitter melon may block the absorption of sugar and support the use of glucose by the cells. Prickly-pear cactus may contain insulin-like substances that help to lower blood sugar.

    Ginseng and Fenugreek

    • Ginseng and fenugreek also work to lower blood sugar. Ginseng boosts the immunity and reduces the speed of carbohydrate absorption. Fenugreek stimulates insulin release and increases its sensitivity.

    Coenzyme Q10

    • Coenzyme Q10 oxygenates blood and helps the body metabolize carbohydrates. Supplementation may effectively reduce blood sugar levels.

    Nerve Damage

    • Nerve damage caused by diabetes may be reduced by taking vitamins C and B12, biotin, inositol, bilberry, alpha-lipoic acid, and gamma-linolenic acid.

    More Supplements

    • Other supplements that may provide benefit for diabetes management include vitamins B6, B12, C and E, niacin, cinnamon, vanadium, carnitine, taurine, biotin, manganese, potassium and zinc.

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