The key component for type 2 diabetes management is healthy lifestyle habits, generally accompanied by taking oral medication and/or insulin. However, this may not be the only option for controlling blood sugar levels. There are many natural remedies that have been found to assist type 2 diabetics with controlling blood glucose and maintaining normal levels.
Vitamins, minerals, and plant based supplements are beneficial at aiding a number of diseases and ailments. This is the same for chronic disease, type 2 diabetes. Although natural supplements aren’t frequently an option discussed by health care professionals, use of vitamins, minerals, and plant based supplements are increasing in use by type 2 diabetics.
Natural remedies linked to disease management, including type 2 diabetes management, can be found throughout history. However, there are few research studies providing proven benefits for type 2 diabetes when including natural supplements in a healthy lifestyle.
It is important to understand that natural remedies are not a cure-all for type 2 diabetes and diabetics. Adding supplements to their healthy lifestyle habits should speak to their health care professional and closely monitor the effects on their blood sugar levels, as well as other key metrics. The response type 2 diabetics’ body to natural remedies varies for each individual.
Here are some common vitamins, minerals, and plant based supplements that could be beneficial for managing type 2 diabetes.
Cinnamon
A diet high in cinnamon has been linked to reducing risk factors of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Even though research has not been clear, some type 2 diabetics using cinnamon have reported lower blood sugar. Some researchers suggest that cinnamon enhances the body’s ability to respond to insulin. Cinnamon can be consumed as a food additive or supplement, ceylon cinnamon is recommended for type 2 diabetics. Click here for more information on the research connecting cinnamon and lower blood sugar levels. Increased use of cinnamon can have undesired consequences on other aspects of your health, it is important to let your health care professionals know you are taking cinnamon and monitor use with regular lab work.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) is made from the process of fermenting apples and is commonly used in cooking and cleaning. This acetic acid is a natural probiotic and antioxidant and has been linked to lowering blood sugar, as well as weight loss and reducing acid reflux. Research shows that regular use of ACV can lead to lower A1C results. There is also evidence that taking ACV following meals or at the end of the day assists in lowering fasting blood sugar levels. ACV is acidic and should be diluted (1-2 Tbsp per 8 oz of water) before consumption or taken in capsule form to reduce possible irritation and tooth decay.
Magnesium
Significant research has shown that magnesium consumption may prevent diabetes and benefits those with type 2 diabetes. Magnesium manages the way the body responds, helping the blood cells effectively use insulin. The body also metabolizes carbohydrates more effectively with the consumption of magnesium. This leads to magnesium helping to lower overall blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetics.
CoQ10
Coenzyme Q10 is an antioxidant present in living cells, however research has found that type 2 diabetics have significantly lower levels of CoQ10 than those that are healthy. This leads researchers to believe that there is a link in lower levels of CoQ10 and high blood sugar. For this reason CoQ10 is recommended for type 2 diabetics and there is significant data that shows CoQ10 supplement assists type 2 diabetics with maintaining lower blood sugar levels.
Aloe Vera
The aloe vera plant contains properties including vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and amino acids that have many benefits. Among these benefits aloe vera is thought to reduce the bodies absorption of glucose, assist the body with the breakdown of sugar, and prevent the body from producing sugar, directly linking it to lowering high blood sugar. The aloe vera plant can be consumed by drinking the juice of the plant and can also be found in capsule form.
B-12
Your health care professional may request lab work to check your B-12 levels or suggest that you take a B-12 supplement regularly. Type 2 diabetics have an increased risk of B-12 deficiency. The B-12 vitamin does not directly help manage diabetes, but adding the vitamin to your daily regimen could help with symptoms associated with both B-12 deficiency and diabetes.
Click Here for a more comprehensive list of vitamins, minerals and supplements.
As a type 2 diabetic it is important to monitor your blood sugar reading regularly. These natural remedies and others may not have the same effect on all type 2 diabetics and it is important to identify your body’s response when trialing new lifestyle changes. Multiple remedies for lowering blood sugar should not be used at one time.
Before adding any drugs, herbal products, or alternative and complementary treatments to your diabetes management, talk to your health care provider to discuss any interference with your current treatment or other concerns.
