A common condition which is detrimental yet usually preventable is type 2 diabetes. Here we continue our redux series (updated version of a series we presented about 18-24 months ago) on chronic conditions by looking at type 2 diabetes.
The Ramifications of Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is a condition characterized by the onset of the body’s inability to properly utilize insulin, or to produce it (insulin resistance), resulting in sustained and chronic high blood sugar (hypoglycemia). This chronic hypoglycemic state is disruptive to the body, and it practically demands to be managed for the rest of one’s life, in most cases.
Insulin is produced in the pancreas, and it serves to keep glucose within a healthy range at the cellular level. When specific cells stop reacting to insulin, the pancreas must produce more of it. And when cells simply become so resistant to insulin that insulin stops doing its job, type 2 diabetes is the result.
Type 2 diabetes is very prevalent. About 1 in 10 Americans have diabetes, and about 90% of those cases are type 2. Obesity, physical inactivity, and a regular diet of processed and/or high-carbohydrate foods are primary reasons for the development of type 2 diabetes. Other contributing factors could be chronic stress and/or poor sleep, genetics, the use of certain medications, and hormonal disorders.
This type of diabetes must be treated and managed. Without management, diabetes greatly increases risk of cardiovascular disease and health events including heart attack and stroke. Untreated type 2 diabetes can also cause kidney damage, nerve damage, certain skin conditions, and other issues.
Treatment/management consists of prescription medication, glucose monitoring, and, most importantly, lifestyle changes. Nutritional components which support the body, provide sufficient carbohydrates, and support healthy glucose levels are very important.
3 Supplements for Glucose Management
Vitamin D is vital for the human body (which is why you often see it mentioned in this blog space). In that respect, research and medical analytics in recent years have continued to focus on the link between vitamin D and its help in diabetes management and insulin sensitivity. The link between low vitamin D, and troubles with insulin and glucose, is clear. Many people are naturally deficient, often as a result of little time spent in sunlight. Maintaining a sufficient vitamin D intake, including via a supplement, is shown to increase insulin secretion, reduce insulin resistance, and improve glucose metabolism. A vitamin D supplement could be crucial!
Cinnamon is a powerful natural spice which could help with glucose management. Research analysis from 2019 strongly supports the link between cinnamon intake and reduced fasting glucose levels in those who are type 2 diabetes, or prediabetic. The fasting glucose level is a key health measurement for a diabetic individual. Other research shows that it can decrease triglycerides, total cholesterol, and LDL cholesterol, which are necessary health controls for someone with diabetes.
Chromium is a trace mineral with properties that support insulin sensitivity, which could make a chromium supplement particularly beneficial to those with type 2 diabetes. In addition to enhancing the work of insulin, chromium can improve glucose uptake in cells. These make it an excellent supplement for lowering blood-sugar levels. A chromium picolinate supplement could be an excellent choice, especially for those who don’t eat much of foods that contain this mineral. A complex supplement with chromium combined with cinnamon and other effective natural ingredients for blood sugar management, is also available.
Type 2 diabetes is a condition which can be prevented, and also managed. But, it is still significantly disruptive to life and physical wellness. These 3 supplements all have properties which could meaningfully contribute to excellent holistic nutrition for type 2 diabetes. We recommend that you first talk to your healthcare provider before taking any supplement; for one reason, to be sure that your use of any of these supplements won’t interfere with prescription medications you might already be on.