Type 2 diabetes is a complex metabolic disease that requires lifestyle modifications as well as medical management. While following a low-carbohydrate diet and regular exercise are cornerstones of treatment, certain nutritional supplements may provide additional support in optimizing blood sugar control and overall health outcomes. In a recent webinar, Dr. Scott Saunders discussed several supplements that have shown promise in research studies.
One supplement that Dr. Saunders highlighted was vitamin D. As a hormone with receptors throughout the body, vitamin D plays an important role in insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. Many individuals with type 2 diabetes have suboptimal vitamin D levels. Supplementation with vitamin D may help enhance the effects of endogenous insulin production. Dr. Saunders recommended maintaining vitamin D levels between 30-40 ng/mL based on clinical studies showing benefits on glycemic markers at this dosage.
Another key supplement discussed was the trace mineral chromium. As an essential cofactor in insulin signaling pathways, chromium deficiency has been linked to impaired glucose tolerance. The diabetes supplement CinnaChroma contains chromium to support optimal insulin function.
Fiber supplements like FiberGreens were also recommended to slow carbohydrate absorption and promote gut and heart health.
For those seeking to reduce inflammation and optimize mitochondrial energy production, Dr. Saunders endorsed the plant-derived supplement Berberine. However, he advised intermittent dosing of 5 days on/2 days off to prevent tolerance issues seen with daily use.
Another option for diabetic neuropathy is the supplement Nervala, which contains alpha-lipoic acid and benfotiamine – two ingredients shown in clinical trials to help regenerate nerve fibers over the long-term.
While lifestyle modifications remain the foundation of diabetes self-management, targeted nutritional supplementation may provide metabolic and clinical benefits when used appropriately under medical guidance. Further research is still needed but emerging evidence supports an adjunctive role for certain supplements in optimizing glycemic control and overall health outcomes in type 2 diabetes.
-Summarized from the Fix Blood Sugar Webinar with Dr. Scott Saunders M.D. www.BartonWebinar.com
