CE Course

Zinc

Studies show that people with diabetes have significantly lower zinc levels than those without diabetes. Zinc is a mineral that the body only needs in small amounts. It helps in the creation of DNA, growth of cells and supporting a healthy immune system.

Zinc deficiency in those with diabetes significantly correlates with the severity of diabetic poly-neuropathy and glycemic control.

Zinc plays an important role in beta cell function, insulin action and glucose homeostasis. It is thought to be one of the possible causes for the development of diabetic complications because of its antioxidant properties. When the zinc levels are low, the antioxidant benefits are lessened.

There is also a negative correlation between zinc levels and HbA1c. The higher the A1c – the lower the zinc levels.

Food sources of zinc include whole grains, milk, fortified cereals, red meat, oysters, beans and nuts.

Deficiency common in those with diabetes

Negative correlation in Zinc levels and HbA1

Zinc helps with beta cell function and insulin action

Food Sources:

Whole grains, milk, fortified cereals, red meat, oysters, beans and nuts.

Zinc - Upper Limits

As with all supplements, do not exceed the upper limits as it can cause serious side-effects. Always take supplements under the care of a physician and in the appropriate amounts.

Age	Male	Female	Pregnant	Lactating
0–6 months	4 mg	4 mg
7–12 months	5 mg	5 mg
1–3 years	7 mg	7 mg
4–8 years	12 mg	12 mg
9–13 years	23 mg	23 mg
14–18 years	34 mg	34 mg	34 mg	34 mg
19+ years	40 mg	40 mg	40 mg	40 mg

Vitamin D

Since we are talking about nutrients, let’s look at how they may impact diabetes. Studies are showing promising results on the impact of vitamin D and diabetes. There is evidence that vitamin D is important in the prevention of either cell death and it improves the production of insulin. It’s also been shown to improve insulin sensitivity.

This is good news in regards to diabetes prevention for both type 1 and type 2. With an increase from 25 – 75 nanomoles per liter results in a 60% improvement in insulin sensitivity.

The islet cells are groups of several different types of cells in the pancreas. These include beta cells which are responsible for insulin production. If beta cells can be preserved, the onset of type 1 diabetes may be prolonged and the time of insulin production following diagnosis (known as the “honeymoon” phase) may also be extended.

For those with prediabetes or who are at risk for type 2, having improved insulin sensitivity may also delay the onset of type 2 diabetes.

While these findings are promising, there is more research that needs to be done in order to have concrete evidence of its validity. However, it is always good to be aware of the research being done and what to watch for in the future.

Some food sources include fish, fortified orange juice and beef liver.

May protect beta cell function in newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes

May improve insulin sensitivity in those with type 1 and type 2

Increase from 25 to 75 nmol/L = 60% improvement

May have positive impact type 2 diabetes prevention

Food sources:

Fish, fortified orange juice, beef liver

Other Common Supplements

Here is some information about other common supplements you may have heard of. According to the American Diabetes Association, here is what you need to know:

Vitamin C & E have been thought to ward of diabetes and diabetes complications. Until the research shows a clear benefit, it’s best to not use these supplements with the intention of reducing the complications of diabetes.

Cinnamon has long been thought to lower blood glucose levels. This is simply a false assumption. Cinnamon supplements will not lower blood sugar levels. It is best to rely on prescribed medications and insulin therapy as needed along with lifestyle choices for the best blood glucose management.

Alpha-lipoic acid reduces pain from diabetes neuropathy. ALA is an antioxidant that is made naturally in the body and is also found in some foods. It is used to break down carbohydrates and make energy. ALA injections are only available n Europe. These will improve symptoms of neuropathy over a short term. Oral supplements of ALA are available in the United states. Clinical results for these are currently mixed.

Food sources include red meat, organ meats, broccoli, tomatoes, spinach and brussel sprouts. However, supplements can be up to 1000 times stronger than food sources. As a reminder, it is always important to work with a health care provider and your entire diabetes-care team to determine if and when any supplements are needed.

Vitamins C&E

Cinnamon

Alpha-lipoic Acid (ALA)

Food Sources:

Red meat, organ meat, broccoli, tomatoes, spinach and brussel sprouts

Supplements 1000x stronger

As we have learned thus far, there are many nutrients that impact blood glucose control. This is part of the complexity of diabetes management. It is important to understand how each of these affect not only blood glucose but also insulin timing and medication management to obtain the best control possible.

We have also learned that people with diabetes have a greater risk of certain nutrient deficiencies. It is important for the person with diabetes to know it they have any nutrient deficiencies. Then they should work with their diabetes care team to determine the best plan to manage these deficiencies.

In order to prevent complications, diabetes management includes lifestyle modifications which involves proper medication use, appropriate diet, active lifestyle, self-monitoring blood glucose levels and good communication with health-care professionals.