Diabetic Seniors

We have all heard the line “Take two of aspirin, and call me in the morning” and while a “one- size fits all” treatment approach might be easier, it is also impractical, incorrect and unhealthy. However, when you factor in the many illnesses, combined with treatment variations and cost, and choices like over the counter medication, prescription drugs, holistic medicine and assorted procedures, it is no wonder that many people are interested in a simpler way to handle health concerns. As a diabetic, dietary supplements may seem to be the perfect solution to daily insulin injections or insulin pills, glucose testing and food exchanges, but as much as you would like it, there has not been any 100% conclusive evidence that there is a dietary supplement for diabetics that will totally eradicate insulin deficiency or resistance. However, there are many herbal supplements touted as helpful in managing your Diabetes, as well as huge strides in herbs and extracts that can help.

Diabetes Dietary Supplements:

There are over 1200 plant compounds that have been tested to see if they will lower blood glucose levels, but none with conclusive positive evidence for human use. However, there are some herbal supplements that have made some differences, but not enough to be used in place of insulin. The herbs that have shown the most promise as dietary supplements for diabetics are bitter melon, fenugreek, gurmar, goats rue, bilberry, ginseng, nopal cactus, and garlic and onions. There have been a variety of test performed on these herbs and foods with different positive results and assortment of side effects. The most effective Diabetes dietary supplements are fenugreek, nopal cactus and the garlic and onions.

Diabetes Dietary Supplements Guidelines

1. Research the herb(s) you are interested in using, so you know what it consist of and any noted side effects
2. Always talk to your doctor before adding a dietary supplement to your routine.
3. Keep records of doses, starting date, blood glucose levels, usage goals and how it works.
4. Only add 1 new Diabetes dietary supplement at a time
5. Follow usage guides on the package
6. Do not combine medication and herbal supplements without talking to your doctor first
7. Do not quit taking your regular medication without talking to your doctor first
8. As with many things, if you have any negative side effects, stop using the dietary supplement for “diabetics”  immediately
9. Do not use herbal supplements if you are pregnant or nursing.
10. Do not give herbal supplements to infants or young children
11. Store your diabetic dietary supplements in their original containers.
12. Stop taking any dietary supplements before surgery, anesthesia other medical procedures.
13. Decide on a time frame for trying a diabetic dietary supplement (usually 3-6 weeks). If it doesn’t work, quit using it.
14. Pay attention to your blood glucose levels as this is the best way to see how effective the dietary supplement for your Diabetes is working.

There is much interest in the use of Diabetes dietary supplements. From ginkgo to green tea and chromium picolonate to cinnamon, there is an abundance of options with new research is being done every day. So, be patient, the day of Diabetes dietary supplements in place of oral medication or injections may be closer than we think!

Tags: diabetes dietary supplements, diabetic cooking, diabetic diet, diabetic lifestyle, dietary supplements for diabetics