​Diabetic Management Through Supplementation - Khaled Alsahly

​Diabetic Management Through Supplementation

Everyday Health

The Spruce Eats

​Diabetes is a very common chronic disease and one of the leading causes of mortality in the world. According to the CDC, more than 30 million people in America either have type 1 or type 2 of the disease. Type one diabetes is an autoimmune disease that leads to the requirement of Insulin injections. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body starts to develops resistance to insulin, the hormone responsible for handling glucose in the body. Type two diabetes requires medication to be treated. Both types are advised to follow a strict regimen that consists of a healthy diet, exercise, and medication.  diabetes management is a complex set of tasks and it can be very stressful and difficult for diabetic patients. External aid in the form of supplements is immensely vital for tighter control over glucose levels.

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In this blog, I will list various types of supplements required by diabetic people. Using the correct supplements assures lowering the chances of diabetic complications to the nervous system.Diabetic complications can include peripheral nerve damage, blindness, and loss of limps. The following supplements are known to have protective glucose lowering effects(Orenstein,2017). When compared with food, supplements are more concentrated in specific nutrients like Alpha Lipoic Acid, Chromium, and B vitamins. Maintaining a healthy diet alongside supplementation ensures a healthier lifestyle with diabetes. It must be noted that these supplements can only work with diabetes medication and professional medical guidance.  

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Alpha Lipoic Acid:
Alpha Lipoic Acid or ALA is a potent antioxidant found in meat and leafy greens like Kale. Other than the usual benefits of antioxidants like detoxing the body and improving skin, it has a lot of benefits for diabetic people. For instance, it is reported that using Alpha Lipoic Acid leads to healthier nervous system and less complications because it has neuro-protective properties. Additionally, it is reported that ALA can solely lower glucose levels in the blood.(Bradley, 2012). ALA is usually paired up with Biotin for improved absorption in the gut. ALA is highly recommended for diabetes management and is recommended by many endocrinologists. 

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​Chromium:
Chromium is a trace mineral found in potatoes, meats, spices, cereal, and whole-grain breads. A deficiency in this mineral results in symptoms like elevated LDL and high glucose levels in the blood (Weil, 2012). Chromium can increase the body’s insulin sensitivity, which leads to healthier glucose levels in the blood. Supplementing with chromium ensures lower glucose readings and lesser chances of
​diabetic complications.
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The Spruce Eats

​B Vitamins:
B Vitamins generally operate on the nervous system in the body. They help the development of the nervous system and its maintenance. B-vitamins are found in meats, fruits, and vegetables. Supplementation with B complex pills is highly recommended since these vitamins are water-soluble and can be lost during cooking. Consumption of B vitamins lowers the chances of diabetic complications to the nervous system(Armstrong, 2018)

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References:
1. Weil, A. 2012. Chromium. Online Article. Dr.Weil.
2. Bradley, R. 2012. Alpha Lipoic Acid. Online Article. Diabetes Action.
3.Armstrong, L. Vitamin B Complex & Diabetes. Online Article. LiveStrong.
4. Orenstein, B. 2017. 8 Supplements That May Help Diabetes. Online Article. Everyday Health.