Prioritizing your nutrition is important when managing your diabetes. Having a well-rounded, healthy meal plan can help with blood sugar management, staying at a healthy weight, and overall health. While vitamin supplements can provide your diet with an added boost, living with diabetes means taking a careful approach in how you consume vitamins and minerals.
Conventional wisdom would suggest that vitamin supplements are generally good for you. It’s important to consider, however, the impact that certain supplements can have on your blood sugar levels.1 The ingredients in some vitamins may have an adverse interaction with your diabetes medication, which may lead to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
Significant other problems can also arise from taking vitamins, especially if you have diabetes-related complications. Consult with your doctor before taking any of the following supplements:
If you are living with a true vitamin deficiency, you may benefit from taking supplements or a multivitamin. Blood work can show your vitamin levels, so consult with your doctor if you think you may have a deficiency.
The best way to consume vitamins is through food. A healthy meal of whole foods containing a mix nutrients will better allow your body to absorb vitamins.
Several vitamins have been shown to improve blood sugar levels and may reduce risks of certain diabetes related complications.2 Some examples include:
Before beginning any vitamin regimen, it’s important to check with your doctor. Some vitamin supplements may be right for you, while others may be best avoided. If you’re looking for a good way to take charge of your health, maintaining a healthy, balanced meal plant and getting regular exercise are still your best bets.
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