Dietary supplements are used to manage the symptoms and support lowering blood sugar levels. Although they are not a replacement of medication, doctor’s recommend supplements that contain Cinnamon, Aloe, Berberine, and other such herbal compounds to reduce the neuropathic pains and other symptoms linked to the disease.
10 Doctors’ Recommended Best Supplements For Diabetes
The No#1 choice of doctors for dietary supplement is the one that is safe, contains active ingredients for diabetes, and is bioavailable. Supplements for diabetes are not regulated by the FDA so extra care is required while taking them to avoid any adverse reactions. The American Diabetes Association has not declared any specific supplements as definitive and safe but generally, chromium, aloe vera, magnesium, berberine, etc are recognized for diabetes care as they improve blood sugar levels and insulin sensitivity.
Chromium
Available Brand Name: Natural Factors Chromium Picolinate 250 mcg, 90 Ct
Description
The first supplement that endocrinologists recommend is chromium. It acts as a metabolic enhancer, increases insulin sensitivity, and glucose metabolism. Chromium picolinate also supports weight loss in patients with obesity. This supplement also triggers a complex enzymatic pathway that supports carbohydrate and lipid metabolism.
Uses
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Stabilize blood sugar levels
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Reduce carbohydrate cravings
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Enhance metabolic efficiency
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Support cardiovascular health
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Prevent nutrient deficiencies
Contains: Chromium (Picolinate) 250 mcg
Price: 1800 PKR per 90 tablets bottle
2. Aloe Vera
Available Brand Name: NOW Aloe Vera Gels 10000 mg, 100 Ct
Description
Aloe vera dietary supplement contains more than 75 active components and is studied due to its importance in managing diabetes and reducing weight. Aloe has a capacity to reduce fasting blood sugar and average HBA1C levels, as studied in animals. This diabetes supplement has fewer side effects and is tolerated well in most patients.
Uses
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Increases wound healing
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Optimize digestive function
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Boost nutrient absorption
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Support immune responses
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Reduce Fasting blood sugar
Contains: Aloe Vera (20,000 mg equivalency): 50 mg per softgel
Price: 4500-4800 PKR per 100 soft gel capsules
3. Magnesium
Available Brand Name: Nutrifactor Magnesium 500mg
Description
Different forms of magnesium like magnesium citrate and oxide are active in managing diabetes. Most people with Diabetes Type 2 also report a deficiency of magnesium as it is linked to insulin resistance. Diabetics lose most of their magnesium through urine. Magnesium supplementation helps regulate blood sugar level and if you are pre diabetic, it also prevents the disease.
Uses
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Help manage diabetes type 2
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Reduce muscle tension
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Improve sleep quality
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Support cardiovascular rhythm
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Enhance energy metabolism
Contains: Magnesium Oxide 500 mg
Price: 1100 PKR per 60 tablets
4. Berberine
Available Brand Name: Gumvits Berberine 600mg Gummies, 60 Ct
Description
Invitro and in vivo studies on berberine prove why they are listed among the best diabetes supplements recommended by doctors worldwide. This chemical helps reduce sugar level and also improves lipid metabolism. Recent studies also say that berberine is even more safe, well tolerated and effective than metformin for people with hyperglycemic levels. Berberine supplementation has an impact on inflammatory responses, glucose uptake, and hepatic glucose production.
Uses
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Regulate blood sugar levels
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Lower cholesterol concentrations
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Improve gut microbiome balance
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Support weight management
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Enhance metabolic flexibility
Contains: Berberine HCL 600 mg, Ceylon Cinnamon 100 mg, Turmeric 25 mg, Milk Thistle 25 mg, Artichoke 25 mg
Price: 3000 PKR per 60 gummies
5. Cinnamon
Available Brand Name: NOW Cinnamon Bark 600mg, 120 Ct
Description
Cinnamon's bioactive compounds interact with insulin receptors, mimicking insulin's molecular structure and enhancing cellular glucose absorption. Polyphenols in the cinnamon bark disrupt inflammatory signaling pathways, reducing oxidative stress markers. Cellular mechanisms involve direct interaction with glucose transporters, improving metabolic efficiency. Cinnamon is one of the top supplements for diabetes reducing sugar levels similar to metformin. It also reduces the risk of complications associated with diabetes.
Uses
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Optimize glucose metabolism
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Stabilize blood sugar levels
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Reduce oxidative damage
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Support immune function
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Enhance metabolic resilience
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Supports balanced immune responses.
Contains: Cinnamon 600 mg per capsule
Price: 4000-5000 PKR per 120 veg capsules
6. Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA)
Available Brand Name: Natural Factors Alpha Lipoic Acid 200 mg, 60 Ct
Description
Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) is a naturally found antioxidant that helps with diabetes mellitus. It acts by reducing glucose concentration in the blood. Another important role of this supplement is to manage diabetic complications such as diabetic neuropathy. It improves the overall glycemic control of the body and insulin sensitivity. The oxidative stress reducing property of alpha lipoic acid also reduces the destruction of beta cells. It is available alone or in combination to other natural compounds for supplementation.
Uses
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Improve insulin sensitivity
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Stabilize blood sugar levels
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Reduce cholesterol concentrations
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Support cognitive function
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Enhance metabolic flexibility
Contains: alpha lipoic acid 200 mg
Price: ~ 6000 PKR per 60 capsules
7. Moringa
Available Brand Name: ABS Moringa Extract, 60 Ct
Description
Moringa delivers a dense nutritional profile with rapid cellular absorption mechanisms. Its leaf extract is also used by diabetes patients as it slows the diabetes progression, manages sugar levels, and increases insulin sensitivity. Studies also suggest that Moringa supplementation helps bring HBA1C levels within optimal range. The leaf extract or seeds are also safe in organ protection such as kidney, heart, and pancreas.
Uses
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Boost nutrient absorption
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Improves metabolism
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Strengthen immune defenses
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Reduce oxidative stress
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Reduces HBA1C level
Contains: Moringa Extract 500 mg per capsule
Price: 1200 PKR per 60 capsules
8. Multivitamins
Available Brand Name: Bio Life Multiway (Sugar Free), 30 Ct
Description
Multivitamins provide a comprehensive nutrient matrix that fills metabolic gaps and supports cellular functions in diabetics. Doctors recommend diabetics to take multivitamin supplements as they meet the nutritional deficiencies, improve disease management, and reduce oxidative stress. Vitamin complexes activate enzymatic pathways, enhancing energy production and cellular repair mechanisms. Mineral interactions optimize biochemical processes, supporting neurological and endocrinological systems.
Uses
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Restore nutrient balance
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Enhance energy production
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Support immune function
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Accelerate recovery processes
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Optimize metabolic performance
Contains: Vitamin A, B1, B2, B6, B12, C, D3, E, Iron, Calcium, Zinc
Price: 1250 PKR per 30 capsules
9. Omega-3
Available Brand Name: Spring Valley - Fish Oil 1000 mg, 300 Softgels
Description
Omega-3 fatty acids especially from fish oil are taken by diabetics to improve lipid and triglyceride levels, and for enhanced glycemic control. The antioxidative and lipid metabolism properties of Omega 3 dietary support are best for managing organ failure and heart health in patients with DM. The decreased insulin resistance by this dietary aid also reduces obesity and inflammation.
Uses
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Support cardiovascular health
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Enhance cognitive performance
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Reduce joint inflammation
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Strengthen cellular membranes
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Optimize skin and hair health
Contains: Fish Oil 500 mg per softgel
Price: ~7000 PKR per 300 capsules
10. Garlic (Glucofactor)
Available Brand Name: Glucofactor by Nutrifactor
Description
The active components in garlic supplements trigger different metabolic pathways to enhance insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. Sulfur-containing molecules in garlic supplements activate cellular detoxification processes and modify inflammatory responses. Molecular interactions within this supplement support cardiovascular health by reducing lipid oxidation and improving blood vessel elasticity. Comprehensive nutrient interactions create a multisystem support mechanism.
Uses
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Stabilize blood sugar levels
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Boost energy production
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Support insulin function
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Enhance cardiovascular health
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Reduce metabolic inflammation
Contains: Biotin, Niacin, Folic Acid, Pyridoxine, Vitamin D, Magnesium, Potassium, Zinc, Chromium, Garlic Extract
Price: 1150 PKR per 30 capsules
Take advice from your doctor before taking any of these supplements even if they are ranked as the best in the list. Dietary supplements are free of side effects but may interact with other medicines and diseases. Avoid exceeding the recommended dose to reduce the risk of complications. Also, note that diabetes supplements are only for managing the chronic disease and are not an alternative to your medical treatment.
