Controlling Blood Sugar III

Diabetes Information Network

Controlling Blood Sugar III

Vitamin C
Several studies have found that a single dose of 500mg per day improved sugar metabolism in diabetics. All subjects showed improved blood sugar control. (in studies it’s unusual for all the subjects to respond positively)

Other names:                  Ascorbic acid, Calcium Ascorbate
Best form to take:           Mixed forms that include Calcium Ascorbate
Usual dosage:                500-1,000mg per day
Approximate cost:          Less than $10 per month
Other effects:                 Widely used as an anti-aging nutrient and to
                                         prevent heart disease and cancer. Also reduces
                                         systolic blood pressure (the higher number).
Possible side effects:    Can cause diarrhea in very large doses. If this
                                         happens simply reduce dosage until bowel
                                         function returns to normal. Taking vitamin C may
                                         interfere with urine sugar tests. Vitamin C should
                                         not be taken by gout sufferers as it may worsen
                                         their symptoms. May cause or increase stomach
                                         irritation – take with meals.

If stomach acidity is a problem for you be sure to buy non-acidic forms of Vitamin C. (Ascorbyl palmitate, calcium ascorbate, magnesium ascorbate) Aspirin use increases excretion of Vitamin C in the urine and increases risk of a Vitamin C deficiency. Smokers need more vitamin C than normal subjects.

Vitamin E
Vitamin E has many effects diabetics should know about including it’s ability to help improve blood sugar control. Several studies have shown that vitamin E can effectively help prevent diabetes.

Other names:                  Alpha Tocopherol
Best form to take:           Mixed tocopherols (including Gamma Tocopherol)
Usual dosage:                100 International Units (IU) to 400 IU per day
Approximate cost:          Around $12 per month
Other effects:                  Start with a low dosage (100 IU) and work up
                                         slowly over several weeks to avoid any possibility
                                         of it causing a temporary boost in blood pressure.
                                         Your diabetic drug dosage or insulin requirement
                                         may need adjusting after you start taking vitamin
                                         E so take vitamin E only under close physician
                                         monitoring.
Possible side effects:    Temporary blood pressure boost with initial larger
                                         doses. Doses in excess of 400IU per day may
                                         thin the blood too much which can contribute to
                                         excessive bleeding. Vitamin E can increase the
                                         tendency to bruise as it increases the fragility of
                                         the smallest blood vessels. Do not take Vitamin E
                                         if you’re taking any kind of blood thinning
                                         medication or aspirin.

Vitamin E is an important antioxidant that can help prevent other diabetic complications and also help prevent heart disease. It’s also used to prevent prostate and breast cancer. Slows the mental decline of those suffering from Alzheimer’s Disease. Protects the retina and kidneys which are particularly important effects for diabetics. Increases sperm quality and odds of conceiving. Increases visual acuity (ability to see tiny details)

Back