Diabetes is characterized by a high level of sugar in the blood. It 's a disorder of metabolism where the person's body doesn't make enough insulin or can't use insulin properly. Insulin is made in the pancreas and is responsible for transporting sugar out of the blood and into muscle, fat and liver cells where it's either used for energy or stored as fat. Learn about some key vitamins that help in blood-sugar regulation.
Chromium
Chromium is a trace mineral and is very effective in the management of diabetes, as it helps to lower blood-sugar levels. Chromium can be taken as a supplement in the amount of 200 mcg, 1 to 3 times a day and even higher doses in some cases. Chromium appears to be safe and no known toxicities have been reported, but as with any dietary supplement you should consult your physician before adding it to your diet. Some healthy food sources of chromium include Brewer's yeast, wheat germ, spinach, organ meats, whole grains, broccoli and turkey.
Magnesium
Researchers from the Harvard School of Public Health link magnesium deficiency with diabetes. Magnesium is one of the most abundant minerals in the body. Yet many people are deficient. Magnesium is essential for good health and has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity. The recommended dietary allowance, or RDA, for magnesium is between 320 and 420 mg per day. Consult you doctor before taking this supplement and note the possible signs of toxicity are diarrhea, weakness, fatigue and drowsiness.
The best food sources for magnesium are nuts, green leafy vegetables, brown rice, wheat germ and bananas.
The best food sources for magnesium are nuts, green leafy vegetables, brown rice, wheat germ and bananas.
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Alpha lipoic acid is an antioxidant made by our bodies that not only lowers blood-sugar levels, but helps with diabetic neuropathy as well. Generally, a healthy body makes enough alpha lipoic acid. However, individuals with diabetes may not. The dose for diabetes and diabetic neuropathy is 800 mg per day in divided doses. Speak with you health practitioner before taking alpha lipoic acid as it may interfere with other medications and lower the levels of thyroid hormone. It is also found in red meat, organ meats and Brewer's yeast.
Original article here: http://www.livestrong.com/article/335635-vitamins-that-help-reduce-sugar-in-the-blood/
Loved this article, and I followed your links and downloaded the diabetic meal planner. Thank you for the info.
ReplyDeleteYou're very welcome, hope you find them helpful!
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing this article. It's very important for us to take the necessary vitamins to reduce our blood sugar so that we can avoid certain health problems.
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