What’s the Takeaway?

How much do we understand about using dietary supplements for managing diabetes?

• Numerous studies have explored how supplements might help with type 2 diabetes and its related conditions. This information focuses specifically on type 2 diabetes.

What is known about how well these supplements work?

• A few supplements may offer slight benefits. Research has suggested that chromium, cinnamon, or berberine may aid in blood glucose control, and alpha-lipoic acid may help with diabetic nerve pain. However, these findings often come from small or inconsistent studies with varying methodologies, making it difficult to draw firm conclusions. Most supplements have not been proven effective for diabetes or its complications.

How safe are these supplements?

• Certain supplements can have adverse effects, including serious ones like kidney damage.

• The FDA has issued warnings about products marketed as natural cures or alternatives to prescribed diabetes drugs. These are often sold illegally, can be dangerous, and should not be used as a replacement for proven treatment.

• It's critical not to use unproven remedies in place of standard medical care for diabetes.

Understanding Diabetes

• Diabetes is a condition marked by high levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. Over time, excess glucose can lead to health issues such as heart disease, nerve damage, vision problems, and kidney disease.

• About 11.3% of Americans have diabetes, yet many are unaware they have it.

• There's no cure for diabetes, but people can manage it through medication, eating nutritious foods, staying active, sleeping well, and managing stress.

• Some research suggests that lifestyle changes can even lead to remission for some individuals with type 2 diabetes. For people with prediabetes, lifestyle interventions can help prevent progression to diabetes.

Deeper Look Into Diabetes

• Type 2 diabetes is the most common form. It happens when the body doesn’t use insulin effectively. While it is more typical in older adults, it can occur at any age.

• Risk factors include age, genetic history, overweight, inactivity, and existing conditions such as high blood pressure or prediabetes.

• Since diabetes is the main cause of kidney disease, supplement use should be closely watched by a healthcare provider if you have kidney concerns.

What Research Says About Supplements for Diabetes

Alpha-Lipoic Acid

This antioxidant has been tested for its potential in controlling blood glucose and easing complications like diabetic neuropathy and macular edema.

• A 2019 evaluation of 10 studies showed no significant change in blood sugars or cholesterol when using alpha-lipoic acid versus placebo.

• Long-term use in a 2011 trial also did not reduce vision-related diabetic damage.

• A 2022 review showed mixed findings in neuropathy pain relief, though it appears safe overall.

• Another 2022 study concluded that alpha-lipoic acid doesn’t significantly help with diabetic kidney issues.

Safety:

• A 2020 review supports its safety. Typical side effects include headache and nausea.

Berberine

Berberine is derived from certain plants used traditionally in herbal medicine.

• A 2021 analysis concluded it may help manage glucose and improve lipid metabolism in type 2 diabetes. However, limitations include the geographical focus of the studies and inconsistent data quality.

Safety:

• Berberine is generally safe at clinical doses. Side effects are usually mild gastrointestinal symptoms.

• It can interact with medications and should be avoided during pregnancy and infancy.

Chromium

A trace mineral found in food, chromium is vital for glucose metabolism.

• A 2022 review suggested it may lower HbA1c and fasting glucose in those with type 2 diabetes.

Safety:

• Some users report digestive discomfort, and large doses may lead to more serious health problems. Long-term effects are not well-studied.

Herbal Supplements

The effectiveness of herbal supplements in controlling diabetes is still unclear.

Cinnamon:

• A 2019 review found that cinnamon may lower blood sugar and insulin resistance. However, studies varied widely, and further research is needed.

• Another review in 2020 found blood pressure improvements but no effect on body weight.

• A separate 2020 review suggested cholesterol benefits, although the effects were less in western-based or longer-term studies.

Other Herbs:

Plants such as bitter melon, ginseng, and fenugreek have been studied, but research is limited and not conclusive.

Safety:

• Data on safety is limited. Cinnamon under 6 grams daily is generally safe; however, Cassia cinnamon may harm the liver in sensitive individuals due to coumarin content.

• Herbal supplements may interact with diabetes medications, leading to harmful effects.

Magnesium

Found in legumes, seeds, and leafy greens, magnesium plays a key role in glucose processing.

• Higher magnesium intake is linked to lower diabetes risk.

• Studies show it may improve insulin function, but research remains too limited for clear recommendations.

Safety:

• Stay within safe limits unless directed by a provider; too much magnesium can lead to serious side effects, including possible fatal outcomes.

Omega-3s

Omega-3 fatty acids have mixed results regarding their impact on diabetes and heart-related health.

• Some analyses found they may help lower fasting glucose and insulin resistance, while others showed benefits in cholesterol but not in blood sugar markers.

Safety:

• Common side effects are mild—such as heartburn or nausea. They may interact with blood thinners.

Selenium

• Research does not show strong support for selenium’s effect on diabetes management.

Safety:

• High intake over time can lead to toxicity with severe health implications.

Vitamins

• A large review found vitamins C, D, and E might slightly reduce HbA1c, but evidence is weak. Only vitamin D showed consistent benefit in longer-term higher-quality studies.

• People with low vitamin D are at a higher risk for type 2 diabetes. Supplementation may help reduce the risk in those with prediabetes, especially at higher doses.

Safety:

• Excess vitamin D can lead to serious health issues, including kidney failure and even death in extreme cases.

Other Supplements

• Polyphenols in foods like fruits and tea may help regulate blood sugar, though supplement-based research is still in early stages.

Healthy Lifestyle and Diabetes

Diet and activity are essential for diabetes care.

• They support blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol control, while aiding in weight and energy management.

• Lifestyle changes—like weight loss and increased exercise—can prevent or delay diabetes.

Current NCCIH Research

Ongoing research includes:

• Exploring chelation therapy’s role in heart health for those with both diabetes and a history of heart attack.

• Studying marijuana’s impact on metabolism and diabetes risk.

• Observing whether vitamin D and omega-3s lower diabetes risk.

Important Considerations

• The FDA advises against using unregulated products marketed as quick fixes for diabetes.

• These can do more harm than good, particularly if they replace effective treatments.

• Supplements may interact negatively with medications. Speak with your health provider before using any dietary supplement.

Further Reading and Help

NCCIH Clearinghouse

The NCCIH Clearinghouse provides information on complementary and integrative health but does not offer medical advice or provider referrals.

Phone: 1-888-644-6226
TRS: 7-1-1

Email: [email protected]

Know the Science

A resource to help the public understand how scientific research works and how to evaluate health information.

PubMed®

A database of scientific literature helpful for researching health-related topics.

Clinical Research Trials and You

This NIH resource helps people understand clinical trials and how to participate.

National Diabetes Education Program

Offers resources on diabetes management and education.

Phone: 301-496-3583

MedlinePlus

Provides health information from across U.S. government agencies and scientific literature.

Sources

This article cites numerous studies on supplements and diabetes. These range from journal articles to systematic reviews and clinical trial analyses. For a full list of references and study sources, consult the original supporting documentation.

Acknowledgments

This content was reviewed by researchers at NCCIH. It is in the public domain and may be freely reproduced. It is intended for informational use and is not a replacement for professional medical advice.