Controlling Blood Glucose Levels

Published by admin on December 6th, 2011 - in Antioxidants, Blood Sugar Support, Vitamins and Minerals

By Gene Bruno, MS, MPH

Several dietary supplements have the potential to help reduce blood glucose and A1C levels in diabetics. Most studies on these supplements were conducted on type-2 diabetics; however, given the mechanism of actions of these nutrients, they would likely be beneficial for either type-1 or -2 diabetics.

 

Alpha-Lipoic Acid

 

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is a natural antioxidant manufactured by the body and similar to certain vitamins. Unlike most other antioxidants, however, it has the advantage of being soluble in both fat and water, so it can provide production both inside and outside of cells.1 ALA is also found in some foods, particularly liver and yeast.

In a placebo-controlled, multicenter study, 74 patients with type 2 diabetes were given either a placebo or 1,800 mg/d ALA.2 When compared to the placebo group, those receiving ALA had significantly greater insulin sensitivity (reflecting improvement in insulin resistance), and reduced glucose levels. In other research, oral or intravenous use of ALA improved insulin sensitivity and reduction of glucose levels in patients with type-2 diabetes.3,4,5 Skin rash has been reported in some individuals after oral consumption of ALA.6 Theoretically, use with other hypoglycemic drugs might cause additive blood sugar lowering effects.7

 

Chromium

 

Chromium is an essential trace mineral whose function in the body is to work with insulin to help transport glucose and maintain healthy glucose levels. Chromium levels can be below normal in patients with diabetes.8,9 In a randomized, placebo-controlled study, 180 men and women with type-2 diabetes were divided into three groups and supplemented with: 1) placebo, 2) 200 mcg/d chromium picolinate or 3) 1,000 mcg/d chromium picolinate.10 Subjects continued to take their normal medications and were instructed not to change their normal eating and living habits. Both doses of supplemental chromium had significant beneficial effects on A1C, glucose, insulin and cholesterol, although the benefits were greater with the higher dose. Other studies also show taking chromium picolinate orally can decrease fasting blood glucose, decrease A1C levels, decrease triglyceride levels and increase insulin sensitivity in people with type-2 diabetes.11,12 Some evidence also suggests chromium picolinate might decrease weight gain and fat accumulation in type 2 diabetes patients who are taking a sulfonylurea (i.e., anti-diabetic drugs that act by increasing insulin release from the beta cells in the pancreas).13

Higher chromium doses (1,000 mcg/d) might be more effective and work more quickly.14 Higher doses might also reduce triglyceride and total serum cholesterol levels in some patients.15,16 Additional research demonstrated chromium picolinate also improved glucose levels in patients with type-1 diabetes, as well as gestational and steroid-induced diabetes.17,18,19,20 Theoretically, use with other hypoglycemic drugs might cause additive blood sugar lowering effects.21 Taking 1,000 mcg chromium picolinate with 1 mg levothyroxine has been shown to decrease serum levels of levothyroxine by 17 percent compared to taking levothyroxine alone,22 so levothyroxine should be taken at least 30 minutes before or three to four hours after taking chromium.

 

Biotin

 

Biotin is a B vitamin that plays various important functions, including helping the body form glucose from sources other than carbohydrates. A combination of biotin and chromium may lower blood glucose and A1C levels in type-2 diabetes patients who are poorly controlled on oral hypoglycemic drugs, according to one randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled study.23 In the trial, 447 subjects with poorly controlled type-2 diabetes received either 600 mcg/d chromium picolinate and 2 mg/d biotin, or placebo, for 90 days in combination with stable oral anti-diabetic agents. Results demonstrated significant reduction in A1C and fasting glucose levels compared to placebo. Another randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled study in type-2 diabetics using the same doses showed similar benefits.24 Biotin alone, however does not seem to affect glucose or insulin levels in people with type 2 diabetes.25 Biotin is well tolerated when used at recommended dosages, and doses of 10 mg/d have been taken without adverse effects.

 

Panax ginseng

 

In Asian countries, the fleshy root of Panax ginseng is considered a tonic, stimulant and stress adaptogen. More than 500 studies have been published on ginseng. Perhaps best known among ginseng’s major properties are its ability to improve mental and physical performance and well-being in a variety of circumstances. In addition, this classic herbal medicine has benefits for diabetics.

In a double blind, placebo-controlled study, 36 type-2 diabetics were treated for eight weeks with ginseng (100 or 200 mg/d) or placebo.26 Ginseng therapy improved mood, improved mental and physical performance, and reduced fasting blood glucose and body weight. The 200-mg dose of ginseng improved A1C and physical activity. Placebo reduced body weight and altered the serum lipid profile, but did not alter fasting blood glucose. Likewise, in a 12-week, double blind, randomized, crossover study, 19 type-2 diabetics were supplemented with 6 g/d Panax ginseng as an adjunct to their usual anti-diabetic therapy (diet and/or medications).27 Good blood glucose control was maintained throughout, and fasting glucose levels were reduced, while fasting insulin levels were increased. Orally, Panax ginseng is usually well tolerated. Theoretically, concurrent use with anti-diabetic drugs might enhance blood glucose lowering effects.28 Also theoretically, concurrent use might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy since Panax ginseng might have immune system stimulating properties.29

 

Milk Thistle

 

Milk thistle is, arguably, the best herbal medicine for liver health. The active components in milk thistle are its flavonoids, collectively called silymarin; the majority of milk thistle-related research has been conducted on this component. Silymarin has primarily been studied and recognized for its ability to benefit people with liver disorders, although it has benefits for diabetics as well. Taking 600 mg/d silymarin for four months, in combination with conventional treatment, significantly decreased fasting blood glucose, A1C, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and triglycerides compared to placebo in patients with type 2 diabetes.30 Other research has shown the same dose of silymarin daily reduced insulin resistance in people with coexisting diabetes and alcoholic cirrhosis.31 Orally, milk thistle is usually well-tolerated.

 

Cinnamon

 

The smell and taste of cinnamon in a warm, gooey cinnamon bun is probably enjoyable to just about everyone you know. Unfortunately, the gooey bun is not a particularly good choice for diabetics; but, it turns out the cinnamon may actually provide some significant health benefits. While the majority of clinical research shows whole cinnamon powder is not effective for type 1 or type 2 diabetes,32 two studies conducted on a specific water-soluble cinnamon extract both showed consistent beneficial results. A placebo-controlled, double blind study was conducted on 79 patients with type 2 diabetes.33 Subjects were given 336 mg/d of a water-soluble cinnamon extract (corresponding to 3 g of cinnamon powder) or a placebo for four months. Those using the cinnamon experienced a significant 10.3-percent reduction in fasting blood sugar, compared to a non-significant 3.4 percent reduction in the placebo group.

In another placebo-controlled, double blind study, 21 adults with metabolic syndrome (i.e., prediabetes) were given a water-soluble cinnamon extract (500 mg/d) or a placebo for 12 weeks.34 Eighty-three percent of those given the extract experienced a significant decrease (about 8 percent) in fasting blood sugar, compared to only 33 percent in the placebo group who experienced a decrease. In addition, the cinnamon subjects also experienced a significant alteration in body composition. Their body fat decreased by 0.7 percent, and their muscle mass increased by 1.1 percent. These changes took place without alterations in the diet or physical activity of the subjects.

 

Gymnema

 

Gymnema is an Ayurvedic botanical with a long history of use for treating diabetes. In an open-label study, 22 type 2 diabetic patients received 400 mg/d gymnema extract for 18 to 20 months, as a supplement to the conventional oral drugs.35 Subjects showed a significant reduction in blood glucose, A1C and other glycosylated blood proteins. In addition, conventional drug dosage could be decreased. Five of the 22 subjects were able to discontinue their use of conventional drugs and maintain their blood glucose homeostasis with gymnema extract alone. The researchers suggested the results may have been due to beta cell regeneration/repair, as supported by the appearance of raised insulin levels in the serum of patients after supplementation.

In a similar study, the same dose of gymnema extract was administered to 27 patients with type 1 diabetes, who were also on insulin therapy.36 Insulin requirements came down together with blood glucose and A1C and glycosylated blood protein levels. Blood fats also returned to near normal levels with gymnema therapy. Type 1 diabetic patients who were on insulin therapy alone showed no significant reduction in serum lipids, A1C or glycosylated blood protein when followed up after 10 to 12 months. Gymnema can enhance the blood glucose lowering effects of insulin and hypoglycemic drugs.

 

Pycnogenol®

 

Pycnogenol® is the trade name of a bioflavonoid derived from the bark and needles of the pine tree Pinus maritima. This patented bioflavonoid contains the powerful group of antioxidants called oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPC). As an antioxidant, OPC are 50 times more effective than vitamin E and 20 times as strong as vitamin C. In addition, Pycnogenol may have benefits for diabetics.

In an open, controlled, dose-finding study, 30 type 2 diabetics were given 50, 100, 200 and 300 mg/d Pycnogenol in three-week intervals for a total of 12 weeks.37 Doses of 100 to 300 mg/d lowered fasting glucose significantly, while 50 mg/d significantly lowered glucose levels after a meal; 300 mg/d had no stronger effect. A1C levels decreased continuously with a significant difference after nine and 12 weeks with 200 or 300 mg Pycnogenol. Another double blind, placebo-controlled, randomized, multi-center study was performed with 77 type-2 diabetics given placebo or 100 mg Pycnogenol for 12 weeks, during which standard anti-diabetic treatment was continued.38 The results were significantly lowered plasma glucose levels as compared to placebo. A1C was also lowered, although the difference as compared to placebo was statistically significant only for the first month.

While ALA, chromium and biotin, Panax ginseng, milk thistle, cinnamon, gymnema and Pycnogenol are not the only nutrients that have potential for reducing glucose and A1C levels in diabetics, they are the ones that seem to have the most data to support their use, as well as the least adverse effects or interactions. Certain other supplements that are popular for this purpose sometimes lack good human clinical studies to substantiate their use, or their potential adverse effects tend to make them risky for diabetics.

For a list of references, email NPMreferences@vpico.com.

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L-Carnitine Lowers Blood Sugar Levels.

Published by admin on October 3rd, 2011 - in Amino Acids, Blood Sugar Support

 

L-Carnitine is an amino acid that is naturally produced in the body and plays a vital role in the metabolism of fat. It functions as a transporter of fatty acids into the mitochondria. L-carnitine helps the body produce energy. Premature infants and some adults cannot make L-carnitine in sufficient amounts, which necessitates supplementation. L-carnitine is effective in treating and preventing L-carnitine deficiency and increasing red blood cell count in people with serious kidney disease. L-carnitine is only found in animal food sources such as meat, poultry, and dairy products. Human breast milk is an important source of L-carnitine for infants.

Researchers from the University of Stirling in Scotland investigated L-carnitine (LC) supplementation and its effect on blood glucose levels. The study recruited 8 lean male participants and 8 overweight/obese male participants and were administered either 3 grams of L-carnitine or 3 grams of glucose per day with their meals for 14 days. Participants then were required to undergo an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) which meant ingesting 75 grams of glucose and then measuring the effects. The L-carnitine group of lean men experienced significantly lower blood sugar levels than the placebo group of lean men. On the other hand, the L-carnitine group of overweight/obese men experienced higher blood sugar levels than the placebo group of overweight/obese men. The authors stated “The glucose handling/disposal response to oral LC is different between lean and overweight/obese suggesting that further investigation is required. LC effects on gastric emptying and/or direct ‘insulin-like’ actions on tissues should be examined in larger samples of overweight/obese and lean participants, respectively.”1

1 Galloway SD, Craig TP, Cleland SJ. Effects of oral L: -carnitine supplementation on insulin sensitivity indices in response to glucose feeding in lean and overweight/obese males. Amino Acids. Jul2011;41(2):507-15.

 

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Vitamin D is Really Amazing!

Published by admin on September 21st, 2011 - in Immune System, Vitamins and Minerals

Here is a little write up from Roger Mason, a friend of Supplement Spot.

 

Whatever condition and disease you study, vitamin D keeps coming up as a major factor. Vitamin D is the most important and deficient vitamin of all. Vitamin D is the most important vitamin in prostate and breast disease, for example. Prostate and breast cancer are identical in causes and cures. All American men will have cancer cells in their prostate if they live past 60. One in eight American women will get breast cancer. Vitamin D is the most important vitamin for bone and joint health. 95% of Americans over the age of 65 suffer from some form of arthritis or similar inflammation. Vitamin D deficiency is an epidemic in most of the world. Most people do not get enough sun exposure.It is not in your food. It only comes from sun exposure.

Did anyone ever tell you that vitamin D really isn’t a vitamin at all, but a hormone? That’s right, it is a hormone, and not a vitamin. Vitamins come from the daily food we eat, and there is no meaningful amounts of “vitamin” D in any food. Vitamin D comes from exposure to sunlight, and most of us do not get enough exposure to sunlight to make enough of it. In winter, and in northern climates, this is especially true.  You should not take more than 800-1,200 IU daily. Pseudoauthorities who tell you to take 2,000 to 5,000 IU are crackpots. Hyper levels of vitamin D, or any nutrient, will hurt your health, not help it. You do not need more than a total 400 IU supplement when you are getting exposed to the sun regularly. If you get in the sun from, say, June to September, you should not take anymore than what’s in your daily vitamin supplement.

There are several forms of vitamin D including D1, D2 and D3. You want to take D3 (calciferol). Vitamin D3 is converted in our bodies to the active form which is dihydroxy vitamin D. Doctors and pharmaceutical corporations keep promoting dangerous, synthetic, expensive, prescription only analogs of vitamin D. These can be patented and not sold over the counter. It is important not to take too much D3 as it is oil soluble, toxic in excess, and can result in side effects. Since you can’t get any meaningful amounts in common foods, this is not a problem at all.

Remember how popular cod liver oil has been for decades now? This is really because of the vitamin D content. People often really do get dramatic results from simply taking a spoonful of cod liver oil. This is because they are getting the vitamin D they need so badly. Of course, taking a multivitamin of inexpensive 400 IU vitamin D supplement is a much more practical- and tasty way to do this.

There are many reasons we suffer from so many diseases and conditions in the richest country in the world with the highest standard of living. One important and proven reason is lack of vitamin D in most people. Study after study shows people of all ages in most countries are deficient in vitamin D by blood analysis. This is especially true of the poor and the elderly. Along with your multiple vitamin just take an extra 400 IU capsule of inexpensive vitamin D when you’re not getting out in the sun regularly. No matter how well you eat you aren’t going to get any significant amount in your diet.

 

The science behind this is just overwhelming. People of all ages should take it. The international published science here is endless and growing. Vitamin D deficiency is a worldwide epidemic.

 

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Lose a Pound a Week – It’s Easier Than you Think!

Published by admin on July 26th, 2011 - in Cholesterol, Digestion, Weight Loss

You’ve probably already figured out the math:  You have to cut 3,500 calories to drop one pound.  To lose a healthy pound a week, that’s 500 calories a day!  But you don’t have to deprive yourself or add an hour to your exercise routine to reach your weight loss goals.  It is surprisingly easier than you think, morning, noon, or night!

RISE AND SHINE:  At your breakfast meal, exchange your large bagel for the mini version or for something different, an English muffin to slash 200 calories.  Choose a glass of skim milk over the whole to cut 70 calories, and if meat is your thing in the morning, turkey sausage for pork sausage to cut about 125 calories.

Watch those portions.  It’s so easy to eat a whole cup of cereal rather than a half-cup serving that many boxed grains are portioned for.  A measuring cup will be your confidant of assistance when learning about this portion control thing.  Measuring out one serving can save you up to 200 calories.  While seemingly ‘healthy’, keep in mind that a cup of granola can set you back up to 600 calories, while a cup of high-fiber cereal has only about 120.  If you are like me, granola in my Greek yogurt is a routine occurrence.  Try Special K’s ® low fat granola-excellently portioned at ½ cup (most are only at ¼ cup servings), contains about 190 calories, 5 grams of fiber and 3 grams of fat per serving.

LUNCH BREAK, GET A MOVE ON:  Walk about 15-minutes during your lunch for five days and burn 500 extra calories.  Or try wearing a pedometer to measure out 10,000 steps a day, or about 5 miles – you’ll automatically burn 500 calories without even hitting the gym.

Dining out for lunch is common, keep it simple by ordering sauces and condiments on the side – ensuring that you have control over the extra calories in your dish.  Use hummus or mustard instead of mayo, and a small deli roll for sliced bread on your sandwich, and cut about 200 calories.  Rather than the fries during your fast food stop, sample a salad instead to save another 300 calories for a total of 500 saved, just at lunch.

DINNER BELL’S A RINGIN’:  Rather than depriving yourself of food to drop pounds, simply use smaller plates.  People eat as much as is on their dish rather than the amount that their body actually needs.  If you shrink the size of your dishes by a quarter, such as going from a 12-inch plate to a 9-inch plate, you’ll cut 500 calories without feeling deprived.

Contrary to popular wisdom, eating late at night won’t make you gain weight.  Adjusting your dinner hour to a later time actually saves calories by curbing the urge to nosh in front of the TV.  Enjoying your dinner meal later – but at least 2 hours before sleeping – helps prevent mindless snacking, which often happens in the evening.

SMART DINER:  The difference in a restaurant size portion versus a normal portion size – 250%.  Take charge of your portion distortion by leaving a quarter of your meal on your plate.  Added butter, oils or other fats can cost up to hundreds of calories alone, so leaving a few bites of any potato or noodle dish on your plate can be beneficial as well.  Be mindful of the extras, such as the bread basket and tortilla chips.  These can easily break your calorie bank, equaling more calories than an entire meal.  Make a point to check out the nutrition information on its web site before heading out to dine.   According to the American Journal of Public Health, people who sought out nutrition information before selecting their meals consumed an average of 52 fewer calories by choosing smarter meal choices.  Instead of having Chili’s ® Steak and Portobello Fajitas for 1130 calories, you can choose Chili’s ® Classic Chicken Fajitas for just 360 calories.  Wow – a savings of almost 800 calories!  But a fajita is a fajita?  I didn’t think so either.

 

Amber Massey, RD, LD

www.chocolatebroc.com

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Oil of Oregano

Published by admin on July 12th, 2011 - in Uncategorized

Oregano is one of the common herbs used in Italian food. It belongs to the mint family, green in color when fresh. Its strong aromatic aroma is maintained even when it is dried. Dried oregano is used to add flavor to food. But the Oil of Oregano is derived from the leaves and used in various health benefiting ways.

Numerous university studies have shown that Oil of Oregano is a highly potent purifier that provides many benefits for human health. It is a natural substance that is extracted from wild oregano plants, and two key compounds found in it are carvacrol and thymol. Studies have shown that both of these compounds could have significant effects on harmful microorganisms that cause many illnesses in humans.

In an effort to keep healthy, we at Supplement Spot, have recently added this supplement to our product list. The ancient Greeks were one of the first people to recognize this oil for its health benefits. It is known to be a potent antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-parasitic oil that can encourage a healthy living style and strengthen proper immune function.

Various uses of Oil of Oregano may include but are not limited to: skin, digestive problems, sinus congestions, and sore throats. Oil of Oregano has also been praised in various studies for fighting the look of age spots. The benefits of Oil of Oregano are said to be plentiful and should be considered if you’re looking for a natural way to continue staying healthy. However, it is important to consult a physician before adding a supplement into your diet and to remember that the results of supplements vary from person to person, so what could have had tremendous benefits for one, may not do quite the same for you.

Promoting a healthy style of living is important to us here at Supplement Spot, we encourage you to check out our June 21 blog post “TWENTY FIVE WAYS TO STAY HEALTHIER.” Supplements can play a critical part in becoming healthy and staying that way. We hope you will contact us with any questions you may have and we look forward to working with you in the future.

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