Diabetes Mellitus, Non-Insulin-Dependent
disease · Nutritional and Metabolic Diseases; Endocrine System Diseases
Nutrients connected to Diabetes Mellitus, Non-Insulin-Dependent
A link means the body needs the nutrient for this, or that low intake is linked to it. It does not mean extra supplements help if your intake is already adequate; each link shows how strong the evidence is.
- ChromiumPreliminary or mixed
Low chromium is reported in some older adults with type 2 diabetes. Trials of supplements give mixed results and MedlinePlus says it is not recommended as the only treatment.
- Bitter MelonPreliminary or mixed
Bitter melon has been tested in adults with type 2 diabetes: a 2024 review found lower glucose and HbA1c, an older Cochrane review found insufficient evidence. It is not a replacement for treatment.
- Black seedPreliminary or mixed
Pooled trials in people with metabolic disease found lower fasting glucose and HbA1c; reviews of this condition specifically were not read. Authors urge caution.
- GymnemaPreliminary or mixed
Small studies report lower glucose and HbA1c than at baseline in type 2 diabetes. Evidence is limited and variable, and it must not replace medicines.
- SeleniumDocumented risk
Trials of 200 mcg a day showed a small increased diabetes risk (RR 1.11, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.22); a possible safety signal.
- Alpha-lipoic acidPreliminary or mixed
Studied for blood sugar markers in type 2 diabetes with conflicting results. It should not replace diabetes treatment.
- Olive leafPreliminary or mixed
One trial found lower HbA1c, a later pilot was inconclusive. Not a replacement for diabetes medicine.
- Stinging nettlePreliminary or mixed
Lower fasting blood sugar in a meta-analysis; HbA1c unchanged. Not a replacement for treatment.
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