Can supplements aid in the management of diabetes in addition to nutrition and exercise? Find out more about 5 supplements that people with diabetes might want to think twice about consuming.
Lifestyle has a significant impact on controlling blood sugar levels and general health when managing diabetes. Your blood sugar levels can be affected by a variety of factors, including what you consume, how you move, and how much stress you are under. Even if you take medicine to control your diabetes, you should still follow a healthy eating plan and engage in regular exercise. What about vitamins, though? Do they work and are they safe?
When you can't get all the nutrients you need from food alone or if you have a deficiency, supplements are designed to cover the nutrient gaps. It's essential to use caution when taking supplements because the Food and Drug Administration does not regulate them. Never start taking supplements without the guidance of a registered dietitian or medical professional. Always seek third-party certification to ensure that what they claim is in it really is. If taken carelessly, supplements can be harmful, particularly if you take other medications or have other medical conditions. They can also be expensive.
The 5 Supplements That Diabetics Shouldn't Take
It is challenging to generalize about which supplements all diabetics should not take because there are various kinds of diabetes and various treatment choices for each type. One of the reasons it is so crucial to consult a health expert is because of this. Having said that, the following five supplements may be worth a second thought if you have diabetes because they may interact negatively with some medicines, cause blood sugar levels to fluctuate, or have unfavorable side effects.
Here are five supplements that people with diabetes should be cautious about taking:
1. Chromium: Chromium is a mineral that can help improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control. However, it may interact with certain diabetes medications, including insulin, and could potentially lower blood sugar levels too much.
2. Magnesium: Magnesium is a mineral that plays a role in many bodily functions, including regulating blood sugar levels. However, taking high doses of magnesium supplements may interact with certain diabetes medications, including insulin, and could potentially lower blood sugar levels too much.
3. Alpha-lipoic acid: Alpha-lipoic acid is an antioxidant that may help improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control. However, taking high doses of alpha-lipoic acid supplements may interact with certain diabetes medications, including insulin, and could potentially lower blood sugar levels too much.
4. Garlic: Garlic is a popular supplement that has been shown to have many health benefits, including reducing inflammation and improving heart health. However, taking garlic supplements may affect blood sugar levels and could potentially interact with certain diabetes medications.
5. Ginseng: Ginseng is an herbal supplement that may help improve blood sugar control and reduce inflammation. However, it may also interact with certain diabetes medications and could potentially lower blood sugar levels too much.
Again, it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any new supplements, especially if you have diabetes.
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