Chromium

The evidence for the effectiveness of chromium is fairly extensive, and it is associated with lowering blood sugar levels strongly enough that warnings exist that medication dosages may need to be adjusted if you use it.

It is most often available in the Chromium Picolinate form, which includes both chromium, and an amino acid which helps it to absorb better. There are other forms as well, but this form is the one that has most often been tested for diabetes control.

As with most mineral preparations, it is more likely to be of use to you if a deficiency exists in the first place. Many diabetics do have a deficiency in this mineral though.

I did test this one, because it is also often recommended as a weight loss supplement. It gave me raging headaches, and I was unable to determine any value because of an inability to continue use.

It is also not a miracle cure. The supplements won't repair a damaged pancreas, or remove insulin resistance entirely. Each one will just nudge it a bit, and improve control slightly if you happen to have the right body chemistry for that particular one to work.

Minerals can be overdosed on, so use caution in taking this supplement. Watch for headaches, constipation, diarrhea, skin irritation, or other effects which might indicate that you are getting too much of something, and give it two weeks or more before you add another supplement.

Consult your doctor and keep a close watch on your blood sugar levels.

Written by Laura Wheeler, Owner of Firelight Business Enterprises, Inc.