NIACINE AND NIACINAMIDE
	Doing research reading I found a study that stated “large amounts of niacin for prolonged periods can raise blood sugar levels.” It also stated that niacinamide slowed the destruction of the cells in the pancreas and could be helpful. The excerpt from the study did not specify amounts.

SUPPLEMENTS AND HOMEOSTASIS.
	When increasing the intake of any supplement we need to be aware that the body can increase the component that we are trying to lower, in this case blood sugar, in an effort to reach a state of homeostasis. Homeostasis: the body’s ability to maintain equilibrium (or what it perceives as equilibrium do to years of conditioning) despite varying external conditions. ( ) are mine.

DIABETES WASTES AN ENORMOUS AMOUNT OF VITAMINS AND MINERALS.

I’m not a pill pusher but diabetes wreaks havoc with the body’s metabolic system. Diabetes wastes enormous amounts of vitamins and minerals. In order for the body to maintain an acceptable energy level and provide a high level immune response, the diabetic requires a higher than normal intake of nutrients. Vitamin B6 (100 mg), B12 (40 mcg) and chromium picolinate (400 mcg) were shown in one study to be highly beneficial.

MAGNESIUM AND ENERGY.

Low energy isn’t just a characteristic of the diabetic. As we grow older, and our systems become less capable of assimilating nutrients, our energy levels drop. In one trial, well-trained athletes supplemented their normal diets with 500 mg of both potassium and magnesium aspartate (another study used 1,000 mg each and 100 mg of B12). Their endurance was increased 50% in a maximum exercise stress test as compared to athletes taking a placebo. Aspartate is a salt and if you’re on a low salt diet you should check with your doctor. There are whole foods available that are high in both minerals.

I PREFER MAGNESIUM CITRATE.

Magnesium is essential for strong bones and teeth, it’s the cellular-level door opener for calcium, promotes muscle relaxation and helps to prevent heart disease. Those who suffer from “nervous legs” at night are usually low in magnesium and/or calcium. Magnesium and calcium compete for the same cell receptor sights and are most beneficial when taken separately and at different times of day. Foods high in magnesium are dairy products, meat, seafood, nuts, seeds, wheat germ and whole grains. High doses of magnesium, over 3,000 mg have a laxative effect. A tablespoon of magnesium citrate and a tablespoon of granular vitamin C taken with 16 oz. of water works as a beneficial, and predictable, laxative.

ARRHYTHMIA AND POTASSIUM.

Potassium is necessary for maintaining fluid balance in the cells, heart muscle health and beneficial to the nerves. Foods high in potassium are cantaloupe, sweet potato, banana, avocado, raisins, halibut, sole, soybeans, vegetables, baked beans, molasses, whole grains, mushrooms, dairy products (except cheeses), meat, poultry and white potato. Potassium is the most abundant mineral in most cells of the body. High amounts of potassium, over 18,000 mg, may cause irregular heart rhythm.

ZINC AND INSULIN PRODUCTION.

Zinc plays a role in insulin production and is necessary for a strong immune system. Diabetics are generally deficient in zinc. High fiber diets can lower blood zinc levels (William Campbell Douglass, MD). Zinc is also involved with reproduction, growth, vision, taste, smell, has shown to be beneficial in the treatment of anorexia nervosa and in promoting prostate health in men. Foods high in zinc are beef, oatmeal, dark meat poultry, seafood (especially tuna), dried beans, bran, liver, eggs, legumes, and whole grains.

FENUGREEK TEA MAY BE BENEFICIAL...BUT.
	One study (Nutrition Research, Sharma 86:6) showed fenugreek tea lowered blood glucose and insulin levels by as much as 42%. According to some sources, the herb fenugreek makes a pleasant tasting tea that helps calm the nerves and stomach. According to my blood type fenugreek is supposed to be highly beneficial but I can’t handle the taste.

ASK ABOUT VANADYL SULFATE.

Ask your health care provider about vanadyl sulfate. When vanadyl sulfate is given to experimental animals that have diabetes it reverses the condition (Julian Whittaker, MD). Because vanadyl sulfate can’t be patented you probably won’t hear much about its benefits and your doctor may not have any information but ask anyway. Vanadyl sulfate is available over the counter. Doctor Whittaker states “I prescribe 15 to 75 mg for my diabetic patients without noticeable side effects and some have experienced significant drops in blood sugar levels.”

HEALTH IS AN INSIDE JOB.
	If you increase the efficiency of your onboard nutrient assimilation system (your gut) you’ll be surprised how much better everything can work. We’ll look at some possibilities, along with more diabetes information in Diabetes #3.