There are many types of supplements that are available in the form of liquids, tablets, and capsules which are used to support a healthy diet and boost nutrient intake and increase nutritional value.
Supplements that were thought to possibly aid in diabetes management have been investigated with data thus far being inconclusive, and it is still unclear as to if they have benefits. Most successful studies so far have been ones investigating potential benefits of magnesium and chromium.
It has been suggested boosting levels of chromium could lead to decreased glucose levels and increased regulation aiding in diabetes management as chromium is important for glucose use and blood sugar regulation. Analysis of 25 studies involving 1,600 diabetic participants has shown chromium supplements can lead to decreased blood sugar levels. Long term studies are required to determine if this can be used as a common treatment as there are many side effects to chromium intake such as muscular issues, kidney damage, and skin reactions.
It has also been suggested that boosting magnesium levels could lead to increased glucose metabolism resulting in decreased blood sugar levels, as magnesium is important for metabolism of glucose, and low levels are often seen in diabetic patients. Several small studies have shown there to be small benefits, but there is not enough evidence to provide conclusive answers and it can’t be recommended as a common treatment as there are side effects such as large amounts of magnesium can be deadly and smaller doses can cause painful cramps and diarrhoea.
Alpha-lipoic acid supplements have also been studied for treatment of complications such as neuropathy. Recently a study involving 205 diabetic neuropathy patients showed boosting alpha-lipoic acid levels had several beneficial effects, but there is limited evidence available and studies have been inconclusive. Alpha-lipoic acid has been shown to lead to various stomach issues and can’t be recommended as a common treatment.
Omega-3 fatty acids have conflicting views, supplements do not aid in management of diabetes but it has been shown to reduce the risks for development of diabetes in a recent review. There are also studies showing eating seafood can increase risk for the development of diabetes. Use of omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to affect action of other drugs which can lead to blood clots. Omega-3 fatty acids can’t be recommended as common treatment for diabetes symptoms yet.
Chinese medicines have used cinnamon for almost a thousand years, when investigated for possible roles in diabetes management it was shown to have a few small benefits.
Vitamins B1, C, D and selenium have been investigated with evidence so far being inconclusive. Other supplements have been investigated for applications in diabetic patients with decreased libido including L-Arginine and Pine Bark Extract resulting in inconclusive findings.
Various studies have shown benefits to supplements and various studies shown no benefits to supplements, with all showing various complications including possible contamination of supplements interfering with other medications. There can be some serious side effects associated with supplements such as kidney damage, which is already a complication of diabetes, certain side effects can lead to serious consequences in individuals with pre-existing conditions.
The American Diabetes Association has stated that there is not enough evidence available currently to conclude that supplements can aid in the management of diabetes. Adding that some supplements can have numerous side effects that can be serious, therefore it is not advised that supplements be taken by those with diabetes unless it is recommended by doctor supervision.
