Supplements And Herbs For Diabetes

There are many lifestyle changes, supplements and herbs for diabetes that can help diabetics live a better life. Diabetes in the US has doubled in the last ten years and is a growing problem. There are over 23 million people, 7.8% of the population, who are diabetic in the US according to the American Diabetes Association. Diabetes is the sixth leading cause of death in the US, clearly a warning sign that something needs to change. Most herbs that are thought to help diabetics are ones that lower blood sugar levels, increase insulin sensitivity, and stabilize blood sugar levels or act as antioxidants.

Bitter melon is thought to lower blood sugar levels and increase insulin sensitivity. Bitter melon is also thought to boost the immune system. It is not recommended for pregnant women and side effects of ingesting too much bitter melon include fever, diarrhea, headaches or abdominal pain. A study in the Philippines revealed that a 100 milligram per kilo dose per day is equivalent to taking 2.5 milligrams of the drug Glibenclamide 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 utilized to help control blood sugar as it is a powerful antioxidant. Large doses of ALA can lead to overexcitement, fatigue, and insomnia, however. Many sources do not recommend taking more than 50 mg a day unless under the care of a physician.

Other supplements and herbs for diabetes include Spirulina, which is supposed to help stabilize blood sugar, chromium picolinate which is supposed to improve the ability of insulin to lower blood sugar and garlic which is thought to enhance immunity and reduce blood sugar levels, as well as increase circulation. Diabetics should also get regular exercise as it also helps to stabilize blood sugar. Some diabetics may actually have food allergies that are causing them to have weight problems. It makes sense to have a food allergy test, including testing for corn which is ever present in American processed food and difficult to pinpoint by people as a result.

Many supermarkets and almost every health food store and sell supplements and herbs for diabetes. It is difficult to tell which herbs work or to know which supplements are safe. There is a bit of information on herbs for diabetes, but most supplements have not been tested well enough. Diabetics need to eat right and exercise regularly as it is essential to maintaining good health. "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" (Source: NIH). Supplements and herbs might be useful to diabetics, but be certain to discuss your any supplements you are taking with your physician.

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.