Sharing is caring!

The best supplements for type 2 diabetes are also found in common foods and include vitamins, minerals, herbs, and enzymes. Taking supplements leads to an increased level of total nutrient intake but should not replace complete meals, which are essential to nurturing the body.

Type 2 diabetes is a common disease that can be managed with the right treatment and care, and this includes supplements.  The best supplements for type 2 diabetes are featured in this post and come with the caveat to always speak with your healthcare provider before taking any supplements. If you have diabetes or think that you might have it, then read on for some tips on how to manage your health.

Best Supplements for Type 2 Diabetes

Psyllium

Psyllium is a soluble fiber that can help lower cholesterol and blood pressure. It also has been shown to lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Psyllium may be taken as a capsule or powder, but it must be mixed with water before taking it. (PMID: 28729836) 

Plant sterols and stanols

Plant sterols and stanols are naturally occurring in plants, not cholesterol. They are not absorbed by the body and do not raise blood cholesterol levels. Plant sterols and stanols block the absorption of cholesterol in the intestinal tract so less enters the bloodstream to increase your risk for heart disease. (PMID: 34943006)

Beta Glucan

Beta glucans are a class of polysaccharides that have been shown to support several functions in the body. Beta glucan works by increasing production of insulin and helping cells respond better to insulin. It also reduces blood sugar levels by slowing down glucose absorption from food in the gut, which means less glucose gets into your bloodstream after you eat. (PMID: 31960663)

Alpha-lipoic acid

This nutrient is a powerful antioxidant and works with the body to protect your cells from damage. It also plays an important role in the production of energy in your body. Alpha-lipoic acid has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, lower blood sugar levels, and reduce complications associated with diabetes. (PMID: 26406389)

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a spice that has been used for centuries. It is also a good source of fiber, iron, calcium and manganese. Cinnamon can help lower blood sugar levels by increasing insulin sensitivity and decreasing the amount of sugar released into the bloodstream after eating carbohydrate-rich foods. In addition to its effects on blood sugar control, cinnamon is also associated with reduced inflammation markers such as C-reactive protein. (PMID: 22671971)

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is important for the body to absorb calcium. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with increased risk of type 2 diabetes, and it’s thought that vitamin D supplements might help prevent or treat diabetes. It’s also possible that taking supplemental vitamin D could reduce your chances of developing hypertension. (PMID: 29504254)

Chromium

Chromium is a mineral that helps the body use insulin. Chromium also helps with the balance of cholesterol and how fat is used by the body. Chromium deficiency has been linked to diabetes type 2, cardiovascular disease, elevated cholesterol levels, and metabolic syndrome. Good food sources of chromium include whole grains like oats, wheat breads and cereals; meat (especially beef liver); brewer’s yeast; green beans; broccoli; avocado; bananas and molasses. (PMID: 34981492)

Pectin

Pectin is a type of soluble fiber found in fruits and vegetables.  Pectin has been shown to help lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Studies have shown that pectin can help reduce your appetite and improve digestion overall; both of which are helpful when it comes to managing Type 2 Diabetes. (PMID: 3001740)

Inositol

Inositol is a B vitamin that often comes in pill form as a supplement, and it can be found in some foods.  Inositol helps you to have better insulin sensitivity, which means your cells are better able to use the insulin that’s already present (rather than creating more). This can help keep your blood sugar levels low and prevent them from rising too quickly after eating certain foods. It also helps reduce triglycerides, another type of fat that builds up in the body if you have too much sugar in the bloodstream. (Nutrients 2021, 13(6), 1848; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13061848)

Berberine

Berberine is a naturally occurring compound found in certain herbs and plants. It has been used for centuries in Chinese traditional medicine to treat a variety of health conditions, including diabetes. In recent years, berberine has been studied as an anti-diabetic supplement that may be helpful in lowering blood sugar levels and reducing blood pressure. (PMID: 33024120)

Type 2 Diabetes Supplements- adding to your regimen to help manage diabetes

Diabetes supplements are not a substitute for diet and exercise and should not be used as a substitute for medication prescribed by your doctor. However, they may help you manage Diabetes by lowering blood sugar levels and reducing the risk of complications. If you’re thinking about adding supplements to your regimen, talk with your doctor first to make sure that they’re safe for you and won’t interact with any other medications or treatments you’re currently taking.

Best Supplements for Type 2 Diabetes Control

The best way to get the most out of any supplement is by taking it as part of a comprehensive plan that addresses all aspects of health—from diet to sleep habits and beyond. You can use these supplements as part of your ongoing diabetes management regimen, but they shouldn’t be used in place of other proven treatments. If you have any questions about which of these supplements might be right for you, consult with a qualified healthcare provider.

Disclaimer: While I am a Registered Dietitian and Diabetes Care and Education Specialist, I am not a physician and recommend speaking with your provider before starting or changing your supplement routine. I do provide supplement recommendations to clients that are of the highest quality and have share my link which contributes to affiliate income if you make a purchase.