Interested In Lowering Your Blood Sugar?
Experts Recommend These 6 Vitamins And Supplements To Lower Blood Sugar
Managing blood sugar is essential for those with diabetes or prediabetes. Dietary supplements are gaining popularity in addition to more conventional methods of controlling blood sugar, such as modifying one's lifestyle and using medicine. This is because many people believe that supplements are natural and affordable.
The potential advantages and disadvantages of natural supplements that promise to decrease blood sugar are covered in this article.
Blood Sugar: What Is It?
Rekha B. Kumar, M.D., an endocrinologist in New York City and the chief medical officer at Found, a weight-management program, explains that when you consume carbohydrates, glucose (or sugar) is released into your body and gives your cells energy. sustaining a healthy blood sugar level is crucial for sustaining energy levels and the smooth operation of other bodily systems.
Blood sugar is regulated by the hormone insulin, which is made by the pancreas. Dr. Kumar continues, "Type 1 diabetes (an autoimmune disorder) is caused by inadequate insulin production, whereas type 2 diabetes is caused by the body's inadequate response to insulin."
Prediabetes is a disorder where cells don't react to insulin appropriately, causing blood sugar levels to be higher than normal but not quite high enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes.
Expert-Recommended Supplements for Blood Sugar Control
Although some studies suggests that supplements may have favorable impacts on blood sugar, our experts concur that supplements should be used in addition to prescription drugs, a healthy diet, and exercise. "It may be helpful to view supplements as part of the toolkit but not necessarily a treatment on their own," says Dr. Kumar.
Before incorporating a supplement into your routine, it's also a good idea to speak with your doctor.
Cinnamon
"Cinnamon is a spice derived from the inner bark of trees belonging to the Cinnamomum genus," explains Amy Beney, a registered dietitian and certified diabetes care and education specialist at Nutrition Insights, a nutrition private practice in Lockport, New York.
Pros:
According to Beney, cinnamon is thought to improve insulin sensitivity (how well the body reacts to insulin).
When compared to placebo, cinnamon dramatically lowers fasting blood sugar and HOMA-IR scores in persons with type 2 diabetes and prediabetes, according to research cited by Dr. Kumar in the 2019 issue of Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice. The researchers point out that additional research is necessary[1].
Warnings:
According to Beney, some people may be allergic to cinnamon. "Reactions may include throat swelling, difficulty breathing, or hives on the skin." Taking cinnamon supplements may cause indigestion and gas. Additionally, taking too much cinnamon can aggravate or start liver disease.
'Ole Vera'
Aloe vera is a succulent plant that has been used for medical purposes for ages, despite not being frequently associated with blood sugar control, according to Beney. Aloe vera supplements are available as pills or capsules and are made out of concentrated aloe vera extract or gel.
Pros:
Aloe vera's impact on people with diabetes and prediabetes was studied in a systematic review and meta-analysis published in the Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacognosy Research in 2022. According to the study, aloe vera may lower fasting blood sugar levels, with the impact being more pronounced in male participants and people with a body mass index under 30. The outcomes, however, varied widely, making it impossible to demonstrate a connection between dosage and response. To put it another way, the study didn't discover a direct connection between the quantity of aloe vera a person ingested and how effectively it worked. More studies with rigorous designs and uniform aloe vera preparation are required[2].
Warnings:
According to Beney, excessive use of low-quality aloe vera products might cause gastrointestinal problems and electrolyte imbalances. "Some medications, including those for diabetes, may interact with aloe vera." Before including aloe vera into your diabetes routine, it's crucial to discuss it with your doctor due to this potential interaction.
Nutrition D
"Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is naturally produced in our bodies in response to direct sunlight," explains Jana Davis, a registered dietitian and certified diabetes care and education specialist at Carolina Green Living, a nutrition private practice in South Carolina. It can also be found in supplements and foods. It's interesting to note that new research has connected low vitamin D levels to a higher risk of type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance. Because increased inflammation increases the risk of developing insulin resistance, researchers think this association may be caused by vitamin D's capacity to reduce inflammation.
Pros:
According to Dr. Kumar and Davis, vitamin D supplementation may help persons with type 2 diabetes and vitamin D deficiency reduce their fasting blood sugar, HbA1c (a three-month blood sugar average), and HOMA-IR scores (a marker of insulin resistance). Both mention a comprehensive study and meta-analysis published in 2023 in BMC Endocrine Disorders that shows these advantages. The impact was especially pronounced when high dosages of vitamin D were given over a brief period of time[3].
Warning:
Some drugs, such as statins, may interact with vitamin D supplements. High blood calcium levels brought on by excessive supplementation might result in symptoms including nausea, vomiting, and kidney stones.
Magnesium
According to Davis, magnesium is a mineral that is involved in over 300 biological processes and that proper magnesium intake is essential for vitamin D metabolism.
Pros:
Dr. Kumar quotes a 2021 systematic review and meta-analysis published in Nutrients as saying, "Magnesium supplements can help improve blood sugars in people with diabetes or at risk of diabetes." The study also revealed that taking extra magnesium enhanced insulin sensitivity[4]. Researchers highlight that additional trials with a longer follow-up are required to validate these results.
Warning:
Taking magnesium supplements on an empty stomach could result in stomach pain. Davis suggests taking magnesium with food to reduce this. Additionally, some drugs, such as antibiotics, can interfere with magnesium supplements.
Berberine:
"Berberine is a natural compound found in several plant species, such as Berberis and Coptis," claims Beney. "It has a long history of use in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicines," frequently for infection and inflammation.
Pros:
Berberine was found to have a number of advantageous effects on people with type 2 diabetes in a systematic review and meta-analysis published in Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity in 2021. A significant reduction in HbA1c levels was seen in the berberine-treated groups when compared to the control group and the groups treated with berberine alone or in conjunction with conventional diabetic therapy. Additionally, berberine had favorable effects on inflammation, insulin resistance, and glucose metabolism. The generalizability of these findings to a larger population was constrained by the review's limitations[5].
Precautions:
According to Beney, taking berberine pills with food will help to reduce any potential gastrointestinal side effects. She continues by mentioning potential interactions with drugs used to treat high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. Berberine can also interact with metformin and raise the risk of bleeding. Before using a berberine supplement, it is crucial to discuss any potential interactions with your doctor.
Chromium
"Chromium is a trace mineral that plays a role in insulin action and glucose metabolism," claims Beney. Foods like meats, cereals, fruits, and vegetables all contain chromium. According to Beney, it is also available as supplements in the forms of chromium picinolate and chromium polynicotate.
Cons:
The effects of chromium supplementation in individuals with type 2 diabetes were examined in a 2020 systematic review and meta-analysis published in Pharmacological Research. Fasting blood sugar, insulin, HbA1c, and HOMA-IR values all significantly decreased as a result[6]. However, chromium supplementation only significantly decreased HbA1c in persons with type 2 diabetes in a comprehensive review and meta-analysis published in Biological Trace Element Research in 2022; it had no positive impact on fasting blood sugar or blood lipid levels[7].
Precautions:
There hasn't been much research done on the long-term safety of chromium supplementation, according to Beney. Chromium supplementation may have negative effects, such as weight loss, anemia, and liver failure, according to isolated case studies. Some drugs, such as levothyroxine (used to treat hypothyroidism) and diabetes medications, may interact with chromium supplements.
Beney advises choosing a brand that complies with the Food and Drug Administration's current good manufacturing standards (cGMP) and seeing your doctor before taking a supplement because supplements don't undergo the same rigorous testing that drugs do. Always adhere to the manufacturer's instructions. Additionally, stop using immediately and consult a doctor if you develop any negative side effects.
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Children Injured by NHS Can Claim Damages for Lifetime Lost Earnings, Court Rules
A landmark court ruling in the United Kingdom has established that children who suffer injuries due to NHS negligence may claim damages to cover lifetime lost earnings, setting a significant precedent in medical negligence law. The decision, delivered by the High Court, underscores the responsibility of healthcare providers to compensate young patients for long-term economic impacts resulting from treatment errors or lapses in care. The Case at Hand The ruling emerged from a case involving a child who sustained a serious injury at birth due to a mismanaged medical procedure in an NHS hospital. The injury has left the individual with lifelong disabilities, significantly limiting their employment prospects. The child’s legal representatives argued that damages should account not only for immediate medical expenses but also for future loss of earnings, educational opportunities, and career potential. In a detailed judgment, the court agreed, emphasizing that the economic consequences of such injuries can extend over decades and should be factored into compensation awards. “Children injured by healthcare negligence should receive full reparation for the lifelong disadvantages they face,” the judgment stated. Legal Implications Legal experts describe the ruling as a major development in personal injury and medical negligence law. Traditionally, damages for children were calculated using standard formulas with assumptions about future earning capacity, often constrained by age at the time of settlement. The new precedent ensures that courts take a more comprehensive approach, incorporating realistic projections of lifetime earnings, potential career paths, and inflation-adjusted compensation. “This decision recognizes the long-term impact of medical errors on a child’s future,” said Harriet Collins, a solicitor specializing in personal injury law. “It aligns compensation more closely with the principle of full restitution, acknowledging that a lifelong disability affects every aspect of a person’s economic and social life.” NHS and Policy Response The NHS expressed concern over the potential financial implications of the ruling but emphasized that patient safety and accountability remain paramount. A spokesperson stated, “We are reviewing the court’s decision carefully. While this may affect how claims are calculated in future, our priority remains providing high-quality care and learning from any incidents to prevent harm.” The Department of Health and Social Care is reportedly assessing guidance for NHS trusts on risk management and claims handling in light of the decision, aiming to balance fiscal responsibility with patient rights. Impact on Future Claims The ruling is expected to influence ongoing and future litigation involving childhood injuries. Lawyers anticipate an increase in claims seeking comprehensive compensation for lost earnings, particularly in cases involving permanent disabilities or conditions that significantly limit employment opportunities. Medical negligence organizations note that while the ruling increases potential compensation awards, it also encourages proactive safety measures and improved patient care standards. “The message is clear: healthcare providers must prioritize prevention of avoidable harm,” said Professor David Moore, an expert in medical law. Broader Societal Implications Beyond legal and financial considerations, the ruling has wider social significance. It highlights the economic and personal challenges faced by children with lifelong injuries and reinforces the societal responsibility to ensure justice for vulnerable patients. Advocates argue that adequate compensation can help families cover additional support costs, specialized education, and care needs, contributing to better quality of life for affected individuals. Conclusion The High Court’s decision affirms that children harmed by NHS negligence are entitled to compensation that accounts for lifetime lost earnings, marking a transformative moment in medical law. By recognizing the long-term economic impact of healthcare injuries, the ruling sets a precedent that will shape legal practice, NHS policy, and the rights of patients for years to come. As the healthcare system continues to grapple with resource constraints and litigation risks, the judgment serves as a reminder of the enduring responsibility of medical institutions to safeguard the well-being and futures of their youngest patients.
By Fiaz Ahmed 4 days ago in Longevity
In Breakthrough, Israeli Scientists Use Deep-Brain Stimulation to Counter Schizophrenia
Israeli researchers have announced a medical breakthrough that could transform the treatment of schizophrenia, using deep-brain stimulation (DBS) to significantly reduce severe symptoms in patients who had not responded to conventional therapies. The development marks one of the first successful demonstrations of DBS targeting brain circuits linked directly to psychosis rather than movement disorders such as Parkinson’s disease. The study, conducted by neuroscientists at Hebrew University of Jerusalem in collaboration with clinicians from Hadassah Medical Center, involved a small group of patients suffering from treatment-resistant schizophrenia. Researchers implanted ultra-thin electrodes into precise areas of the brain associated with hallucinations, disorganized thinking, and emotional regulation. Targeting the Roots of Psychosis Deep-brain stimulation works by delivering controlled electrical impulses to specific neural circuits, helping rebalance abnormal brain activity. While DBS has been widely used for years in neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and epilepsy, its application in psychiatric illnesses has remained experimental. According to the research team, patients who received the stimulation showed a marked reduction in auditory hallucinations and paranoia within weeks of activation. Several participants also demonstrated improved cognitive focus and emotional stability, allowing them to resume daily activities that had previously been impossible. “This is the first time we’ve been able to directly modulate the brain networks that drive schizophrenic symptoms,” said the study’s lead neurologist. “Instead of suppressing symptoms chemically, we are correcting faulty electrical signaling at its source.” A New Option for Resistant Cases Schizophrenia affects nearly 24 million people worldwide, according to the World Health Organization, and is commonly treated with antipsychotic medications. While drugs are effective for many patients, about 30 percent suffer from treatment-resistant schizophrenia, experiencing persistent hallucinations and delusions despite multiple medication trials. For these patients, options are limited, often involving long-term hospitalization and heavy sedation. The Israeli team believes DBS could offer a new path for those who have exhausted existing therapies. One patient involved in the trial described the change as “life-altering.” “The voices that controlled my life became quieter,” he said through a hospital statement. “For the first time in years, I felt like myself again.” Safety and Ethical Questions Despite promising results, researchers stress that the technique remains experimental. Implanting electrodes in the brain carries surgical risks, and long-term effects are still unknown. Ethical questions also surround the use of neuromodulation to influence thought patterns and behavior. Medical ethicists have urged caution, emphasizing the need for strict consent protocols and transparent oversight. “This technology touches the very core of identity and autonomy,” said one independent psychiatrist not involved in the study. “We must ensure that patient rights remain central.” The research team has stated that all participants volunteered after extensive psychological evaluation and that stimulation levels were carefully adjusted to avoid personality changes or cognitive impairment. Global Implications If validated in larger clinical trials, the breakthrough could reshape psychiatric medicine worldwide. Experts believe DBS could eventually be customized for different mental disorders, including severe depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. International interest in the findings has been swift. Medical institutions in Europe and North America have requested access to the study’s methodology, and discussions are underway for a multinational clinical trial involving dozens of patients. The Israeli government has also expressed support for expanding neuroscience funding, calling the research a milestone for mental health innovation. Looking Ahead The next phase of the project will involve testing DBS on a larger group of patients over longer periods to assess durability, side effects, and overall quality-of-life improvements. Researchers are also exploring non-invasive stimulation techniques that could replicate some of the benefits without surgery. While DBS will not replace medication for most patients, scientists believe it could become a specialized therapy for the most severe and resistant forms of schizophrenia. “This is not a cure,” the lead researcher cautioned, “but it is the strongest evidence yet that schizophrenia can be treated at the level of brain circuitry rather than just symptoms.” For millions living with the disorder and their families, the breakthrough offers new hope that science is moving closer to understanding—and controlling—the biological roots of mental illness.
By Fiaz Ahmed 3 days ago in Longevity
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