Diabetic Medication Induces Nutritional DeficienciesLast week I covered how Estrogen found in birth control pills and hormonal replacement therapy can lead to nutrition deficiencies. This week I want to cover how diabetic medication can lead to serious nutritional deficiencies and how to correct them safely. One thing I want to remain clear on is NEVER stop taking diabetic medication. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist about your medication. One of the most prescribed medications is Metformin for diabetes. It is used alone or with other medications, including insulin, to treat type 2 (noninsulin-dependent) diabetes. Metformin helps to control the amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood. It decreases the amount of glucose you absorb from your food and the amount of glucose made by your liver. But… Many diabetics will end up with neuropathy, a condition consisting of nerve damage and poor blood circulation. Metformin can contribute to this condition because it depletes Folic Acid and Vitamin B12 which are vitally important for the nervous system as well as the cardiovascular system. Diabetics have an increased risk of heart disease, Folic Acid and Vitamin B12 are the primary nutrients to fight against elevated homocysteine levels which predict the likelihood of heart attacks and strokes. An all natural multiple vitamin can help prevent this common deficiency. Another nutrient depleted by Metformin is Co-enzyme Q10 which is needed for a healthy immune system and again to help prevent heart disease. A dose of 50-200mg of this vital nutrient is needed per day to correct the deficiency caused by this medication. Natural remedies to help normalize blood sugar levels are DiaChol, a clinical researched form of cinnamom; Gymnema, an herb from India known as the sugar destroyer (great for types 1 and 2); Corisolic acid, a compound from Banaba leaf which can help normalize blood sugar levels and help a diabetic lose weight. These herbal compounds are safe to take along with diabetic medication and should be taken with meals. For many of my diabetic readers, please continue to eat right and maintain normal glucose levels. By doing this, you reduce your risk for heart disease, neuropathy, diabetic retinopathy and kidney failure. Eat high quality protein, fruits and vegetables. Avoid artificial sweeteners such as aspartame and sucralose which can actually increase blood sugar levels. Stevia and Xylitol are the safest natural sweeteners for diabetics. Be blessed and be healthy! Ward W. Bond, Ph.D. |
