5 Supplements to Avoid If You Have Diabetes, According to a Dietitian

 

As a person with diabetes, it is important to be aware of the various supplements available in the market that claim to help manage blood sugar levels. However, not all supplements are safe and effective for people with diabetes. In this article, we will discuss 5 supplements that you should avoid if you have diabetes, according to a dietitian.

Chromium Supplements

Chromium is a mineral that is essential for insulin function and glucose metabolism. It is available in the form of supplements, which claim to improve insulin sensitivity and help regulate blood sugar levels. However, research on the effectiveness of chromium supplements for diabetes management is mixed. Some studies have found that chromium supplements can help lower blood sugar levels, while others have found no significant benefits.

Moreover, high doses of chromium supplements can be harmful and cause adverse effects such as kidney damage, liver toxicity, and low blood sugar levels. Therefore, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking chromium supplements, especially if you have diabetes.

Alpha-Lipoic Acid Supplements

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is an antioxidant that is naturally produced in the body and found in some foods. ALA supplements are marketed as a treatment for various health conditions, including diabetes, due to its potential to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation. However, the evidence for the effectiveness of ALA supplements in diabetes management is inconclusive.

Moreover, ALA supplements can interact with some medications, such as chemotherapy drugs, and cause adverse effects such as stomach upset, skin rash, and low blood sugar levels. Therefore, it is important to talk to a healthcare professional before taking ALA supplements, especially if you have diabetes.

Cinnamon Supplements

Cinnamon is a spice that has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various ailments, including diabetes. Cinnamon supplements are marketed as a treatment for diabetes due to its potential to lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. However, the evidence for the effectiveness of cinnamon supplements in diabetes management is mixed.

Moreover, high doses of cinnamon supplements can be harmful and cause adverse effects such as liver damage, mouth sores, and low blood sugar levels. Therefore, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking cinnamon supplements, especially if you have diabetes.

Gymnema Supplements

Gymnema is a herb that is native to India and used in traditional medicine to treat diabetes. Gymnema supplements are marketed as a treatment for diabetes due to its potential to lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. However, the evidence for the effectiveness of gymnema supplements in diabetes management is inconclusive.

Moreover, gymnema supplements can interact with some medications, such as insulin and diabetes medications, and cause adverse effects such as stomach upset and low blood sugar levels. Therefore, it is important to talk to a healthcare professional before taking gymnema supplements, especially if you have diabetes.

Garlic Supplements

Garlic is a popular herb that is used to add flavor to food and has been associated with various health benefits, including diabetes management. Garlic supplements are marketed as a treatment for diabetes due to its potential to lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. However, the evidence for the effectiveness of garlic supplements in diabetes management is inconclusive.

Moreover, high doses of garlic supplements can be harmful and cause adverse effects such as stomach upset, bad breath, and bleeding. Therefore, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking garlic supplements, especially if you have diabetes.

In conclusion, there are many supplements available in the market that claim to help manage diabetes. However, not all supplements are safe and effective for people with diabetes. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements, especially if you have diabetes, to avoid any potential harmful effects.