Supplements to Use with Caution

nobimbo · 04-19-2005, 08:52 PM

Supplements to Use with Caution

There is some evidence that the supplement glucosamine, used for osteoarthritis, may increase the risk of diabetic cataracts and possibly worsen blood sugar control.

In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 60 overweight men, use of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) unexpectedly worsened blood sugar control.

These findings surprised researchers, who were looking for potential diabetes-related benefits with this supplement.

At present, therefore, people with diabetes should not use CLA except under physician supervision.

There are some indications that the herb ginkgo might alter insulin release in people with diabetes.

The effect appears to be rather complex; the herb may cause some increase in insulin output, and yet might actually lower insulin levels overall through its effects on the liver and perhaps on oral medications used for diabetes.

Until this situation is clarified, people with diabetes should use ginkgo only under the supervision of a physician.

Despite earlier concerns, vitamin B3 (niacin) and fish oil appear to be safe for people with diabetes.

References:

1. Anderson RA, Cheng N, Bryden NA, et al. Elevated intakes of supplemental chromium improve glucose and insulin variables in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Diabetes. 1997;46:1786–1791.

2. Bahijiri SM, Mira SA, Mufti AM, et al. The effects of inorganic chromium and brewer's yeast supplementation on glucose tolerance, serum lipids and drug dosage in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Saudi Med J. 2000;21:831–837.

3. Anderson RA, Polansky MM, Bryden NA, et al. Chromium supplementation of human subjects: effects on glucose, insulin and lipid variables. Metabolism. 1983;32:894–899.

4. Rabinowitz MB, Gonick HC, Levin SR, et al. Effects of chromium and yeast supplements on carbohydrate and lipid metabolism in diabetic men. Diabetes Care. 1983;6:319–327.

5. Trow LG, Lewis J, Greenwood RH, et al. Lack
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