Diabetes afflicts millions around the world – 24 million in 2008 in the United States. These numbers grow annually, but with the assistance of 7 mineral and vitamin supplements that prevent diabetes, onset of the condition can be delayed or prevented altogether.
Diabetes is a chronic condition that can be controlled but not cured. The condition causes a high blood sugar level, and is found in children and adults throughout the world. Type 1 Diabetes results from the body’s inability to produce insulin. Insulin is a hormone used to help the body’s cells absorb sugar or glucose. Type 2 Diabetes is caused by insulin resistance, which means that the body’s cells do not use insulin properly.
One of the supplements believed to help prevent this condition is Vitamin D, which was recently shown in a study at Massey University to increase cell sensitivity to insulin. A higher dosage than would normally be given is needed to produce this result though, but for people who do not get much sunlight – our primary source of vitamin D – this may be beneficial.
Magnesium stimulates insulin and makes it more effective, and it is believed to help regulate blood sugar levels. Vitamin E improves insulin activity as well. Biotin is needed in our bodies to process glucose. This is a B vitamin that increases the activity of glucokinase, the enzyme that is responsible for the initial step in glucose utilization in our bodies.
Zinc is important in all the processes of insulin metabolism, and vanadium and potassium are indicated for increasing the cells’ insulin sensitivity. Studies have shown that diabetics have half the level of manganese of people without the condition, indicating that a manganese supplement may help stave off diabetes as well.
These vitamins and minerals can all help prevent the onset of diabetes when taken in the correct dosages. In most studies, the doses required in order to make a difference to insulin sensitivity and secretions were considerably higher than the normal recommended doses, and this has led to some debate on the efficacy of vitamin supplements for preventing the condition. It is advisable to consult a physician before increasing the dose of any of the vitamins and minerals mentioned here, particularly as some may be contra-indicated for pre-existing medical conditions.
These 7 mineral and vitamin supplements that prevent diabetes can certainly help stave off this condition, but the right amounts must be taken in order for them to be effective. Vitamins C, B6 and B12 should be part of the control program for diabetics, as these vitamins can help reduce some of the symptoms and side effects of diabetes.
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