Prescription medications for type 2 diabetes work by either limiting the liver’s release of stored glucose or by allowing more Glucotrust pill or sugar into your cells for energy use. These medications include:

• metformin (Glucophage)
• rosiglitazone maleate (Avandia)
• pioglitazone (Actos)

But these days many type 2 diabetics are using alternative therapies to help control their blood sugar levels, and treatment using these therapies is gaining momentum. As with prescribed medications they are taken in conjunction with a suitable eating plan.

These natural supplements include:

1. Cinnamon... sprinkle half a teaspoon of cinnamon on your food daily, eg. on your oatmeal. One study showed when cinnamon was consumed for forty days, there was a reduction in the fasting blood sugar levels of between 18 and 29% depending on the dosage of cinnamon taken, 1, 3 or 6 grams. As well as reducing blood sugar levels, there was also a reduction of between 23 and 30% in the triglyceride levels, and cholesterol levels were lowered by 12 to 26%. When taken in capsule form, cinnamon should be taken with your meal or up to one hour later.

2. Apple cider vinegar has been shown to be effective in improving insulin resistance. Research shows apple cider vinegar may possess “physiological effects similar to acarbose or metformin,” prescription medications being used to treat type 2 diabetes. Vinegar also helps to slow down emptying of your stomach and allows a gradual release of sugar into your bloodstream.

3. Chromium is believed to stabilize blood sugar also. There have been at least fifteen well-controlled clinical trials on the effect of chromium supplementation on type 2 diabetics… results have shown chromium improves sugar or glucose metabolism. Chromium polynicotinate has been found to be the most potent type and is also useful in controlling sugar cravings.

4. Magnesium levels are often deficient in the cells of type 2 diabetics… a low intake of magnesium is a major risk factor in the deterioration of diabetic complications, especially retinopathy.

5. Vanadium compound, vanadyl sulfate, mimics insulin and actually helps to reduce the amount of insulin produced. When you first take this mineral it is recommended you consult with your health care provider, as dramatic lowering of your blood sugar level may result and you may require a lower dose of your prescribed medications.

There are many natural supplements that will help to lower your blood sugar levels… it is always best to work with a naturopath or health care practitioner who understands how alternative therapy can have a positive effect on your type 2 diabetes.