https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S037887411400871X?via%3Dihub
The study investigates the efficacy and safety of berberine, derived from traditional Chinese herbs, in treating type 2 diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, and hypertension.
They conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of 27 randomized controlled trials involving 2569 patients. The findings suggest that berberine, when combined with lifestyle interventions or conventional medications, shows promising effects in lowering blood sugar levels in diabetes, reducing cholesterol levels in hyperlipidemia, and lowering blood pressure in hypertension. Importantly, no serious adverse reactions were reported across these trials. However, the study notes limitations in the quality of the included studies and suggests the need for better-designed, larger trials to further validate berberine's therapeutic benefits.
Overall, it suggests berberine could be a cost-effective alternative for patients with these conditions, especially those with limited financial resources.
2. Apple cider Vinegar
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jan.14255
This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the effectiveness of vinegar consumption in improving glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
The researchers conducted a thorough search across various databases and identified six relevant studies involving 317 patients. Their meta-analysis revealed that vinegar intake significantly improved fasting blood glucose and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels. Additionally, secondary analyses indicated a notable reduction in total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein after the intervention. However, they highlighted variations in vinegar content among the studies and the relatively small sample sizes, cautioning against generalizing the results to larger populations. This review adds to the existing evidence by providing quantitative data on the positive effects of vinegar on glycemic control, specifically in terms of HbA1c and fasting blood glucose levels.
The findings suggest that clinicians could consider incorporating vinegar consumption as part of dietary advice for patients with diabetes.
3. Cinnamon
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6425402/
This study delved into the impact of varying cinnamon intake on several blood parameters and BMI among 41 healthy adults over 40 days. Divided into three groups, participants consumed 1g/day, 3g/day, or 6g/day of cinnamon. Assessments included preprandial blood glucose (PrBG), postprandial blood glucose (PoBG), glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and body mass index (BMI).
The results indicated that differences in weight, BMI, and HbA1c values before and after the cinnamon intake were not statistically significant across all groups. However, significant differences were observed in average PrBG and PoBG measurements. Specifically, the group consuming 6g/day of cinnamon showed a notable difference in average PrBG measurements, and all three groups exhibited significant differences in average PoBG measurements after 20 and 40 days of consumption.
The study's conclusion emphasizes the potential positive impact of consuming 3–6g of cinnamon on certain blood parameters. The suggestion is made to raise awareness among individuals about the potential benefits of regular cinnamon consumption.
4. alpha-lipoic acid
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21666939/
This research aimed to explore the impact of alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) treatment over two months on fasting blood glucose (FBG), insulin resistance (IR), and glutathione peroxidase (GH-Px) activity in individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2DM).
Conducted at Motahari Clinic, Shiraz, Iran, affiliated with Shiraz University of Medical Sciences from May to October 2006, the study involved 57 T2DM patients split into two groups: one receiving ALA (300 mg daily) and the other a placebo, determined by systematic randomization. Participants were monitored for eight weeks, with blood samples drawn after overnight fasting and two hours post-breakfast to assess FBG, 2-hour postprandial glucose (PPG), serum insulin levels, and GH-Px activity.
Results indicated a noteworthy decrease in FBG and PPG levels, IR measured by the Homeostasis Model Assessment (HOMA index), and GH-Px levels among the ALA group. Comparisons between initial and final FBG and IR levels in the ALA-treated group versus the placebo group showed significant differences.
The study's conclusion lends support to the use of ALA as an antioxidant in the management of diabetic patients, suggesting its potential benefits in mitigating FBG, PPG, IR, and enhancing GH-Px activity in T2DM individuals.
5. Vitamin D
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/07315724.2015.1026427?journalCode=uacn20
This study aimed to assess the impact of vitamin D supplementation on glycemic control and lipid profile in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).
One hundred T2DM subjects received a daily dose of 4500 IU of vitamin D for two months. Measurements of 25-Hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D], fasting blood glucose (FBG), glycosylated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), and lipid profile were taken before and after the supplementation.
Post-supplementation, a significant increase in mean 25(OH)D levels was observed (baseline: 16 ± 5.3 ng/ml vs. after supplementation: 49.2 ± 17.7 ng/ml, p < 0.05). FBG and HbA1c levels notably decreased following supplementation. While overall lipid profiles weren't significantly affected, an analysis correlating 25(OH)D percentiles with lipid levels showed that individuals with high 25(OH)D levels (>61 ng/ml) exhibited lower total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels compared to those in lower or middle percentiles. Additionally, higher percentile participants showed significantly elevated high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels. Notably, only triglyceride levels in females were notably decreased by the supplement.
The study concludes that vitamin D supplementation could be advantageous for individuals with diabetes due to its positive effects on glycemic control. Moreover, individuals with higher 25(OH)D levels demonstrated improved lipid profiles, particularly with reduced total cholesterol and LDL-C. However, lipid profile changes were limited except for reduced triglycerides in females.
6. Magnesium
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6356710/
This study focused on evaluating the effects of magnesium (Mg) supplementation on glycemic control indicators in type 2 diabetes (T2D) patients. Here's a breakdown of the study's key points:
Background:
T2D and Glycemic Control: T2D stems from insulin secretion or action defects, leading to high blood sugar and various complications.
Rising Diabetes Prevalence: The global prevalence of diabetes is increasing alarmingly, impacting millions worldwide.
Conclusion: Oral Mg supplementation demonstrated reduced insulin resistance and improved glycemic control indicators among T2D patients.
This study provides valuable insights into the potential benefits of magnesium supplementation in improving glycemic control among newly diagnosed T2D patients, contributing to the ongoing research on adjunct therapies for diabetes management.
7. Probiotics
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1010660X15001147?via%3Dihub
This meta-analysis focused on evaluating the impact of probiotics on glucose metabolism in individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Here's a summary of the study's key findings:
Objective:Investigating Probiotics: The aim was to analyze randomized, controlled trials to understand how probiotic consumption affects glucose metabolism in type 2 diabetes patients.
Methodology:Literature Review: Search conducted in databases until August 2014, resulting in the inclusion of 7 relevant trials.
Outcome Measures: Focused on changes in fasting plasma glucose (FPG), glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and insulin concentration.
Results:
Conclusion:
Study Design:
Conclusion:
This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius [AG]) as an additional therapy in individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) who were already under conventional treatment.
Primary Objective: Evaluation of HbA1c.
Objective:
To assess the impact of green tea on glucose control and insulin sensitivity through a comprehensive review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).
Methodology:
Role of Supplements: Previous studies explored various supplements like vitamins and fibers to modify diabetes risks. Magnesium has been suggested as a potential adjunct therapy for diabetes management due to its influence on insulin sensitivity.
Objectives:
Magnesium's Influence: Poor intracellular magnesium and elevated intracellular free calcium in T2D patients might lead to insulin resistance.
Controversial Evidence: Some studies support the positive effects of Mg supplementation on metabolic control in T2D, while others show no significant impact, resulting in conflicting evidence.
Objective of the Study: Investigate the effects of Mg supplementation in T2D patients in the Gaza Strip, aiming to improve glycemic control indicators.
Methods:
Participant Selection: 42 newly diagnosed T2D patients aged 35–60 were selected, stratified by certain parameters, and randomly divided into two groups: Mg supplementation group and control group.
Intervention: The intervention group received 250 mg/day of elemental Mg for three months, while the control group received no supplements.
Intervention: The intervention group received 250 mg/day of elemental Mg for three months, while the control group received no supplements.
Dietary Guidelines: Both groups adhered to a healthy diet plan and were instructed not to change their lifestyle during the study.
Compliance Monitoring: Patients were regularly monitored for compliance through weekly meetings or phone contacts.
Measurements and Analysis:Baseline and Post-Intervention Assessments: Various indicators like fasting blood sugar, insulin levels, C-peptide, and HbA1c were measured before and after the three-month intervention period.
Biochemical Analysis: Blood samples were analyzed for glucose, insulin, lipid profile, calcium, and magnesium levels.
Statistical Analysis: Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and ANOVA to measure changes between groups.
Results:
Improvements in Glycemic Control: Mg supplementation showed a significant decrease in HbA1c, insulin levels, C-peptide, and insulin resistance indicators (HOMA.IR and HOMA.β%) compared to the control group.
Conclusion: Oral Mg supplementation demonstrated reduced insulin resistance and improved glycemic control indicators among T2D patients.
This study provides valuable insights into the potential benefits of magnesium supplementation in improving glycemic control among newly diagnosed T2D patients, contributing to the ongoing research on adjunct therapies for diabetes management.
7. Probiotics
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1010660X15001147?via%3Dihub
This meta-analysis focused on evaluating the impact of probiotics on glucose metabolism in individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Here's a summary of the study's key findings:
Objective:Investigating Probiotics: The aim was to analyze randomized, controlled trials to understand how probiotic consumption affects glucose metabolism in type 2 diabetes patients.
Methodology:Literature Review: Search conducted in databases until August 2014, resulting in the inclusion of 7 relevant trials.
Outcome Measures: Focused on changes in fasting plasma glucose (FPG), glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and insulin concentration.
Results:
Glucose Metabolism Improvement: Probiotic consumption led to significant reductions in FPG (−15.92 mg/dL) and HbA1c (−0.54%) compared to control groups.
Subgroup Analyses:Non-Yogurt Control Trials: Showed significant reduction in FPG and HbA1c.
Multiple Probiotic Species: Notable decrease in FPG (−35.41 mg/dL).
Intervention Duration ≥8 Weeks: Significant reduction in FPG (−20.34 mg/dL).
Species of Probiotics: Did not show significant effects in the meta-analysis.
Duration <8 Weeks: No significant reduction in FPG observed.
Insulin Resistance and Insulin Concentration: Probiotic therapy led to a decrease in homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and insulin concentration.
Subgroup Analyses:Non-Yogurt Control Trials: Showed significant reduction in FPG and HbA1c.
Multiple Probiotic Species: Notable decrease in FPG (−35.41 mg/dL).
Intervention Duration ≥8 Weeks: Significant reduction in FPG (−20.34 mg/dL).
Species of Probiotics: Did not show significant effects in the meta-analysis.
Duration <8 Weeks: No significant reduction in FPG observed.
Insulin Resistance and Insulin Concentration: Probiotic therapy led to a decrease in homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and insulin concentration.
Conclusion:
Beneficial Impact: Consumption of probiotics appears to modestly improve glucose metabolism in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Duration and Type of Probiotics: Longer intervention periods (≥8 weeks) and consumption of multiple probiotic species may enhance the effectiveness of probiotic therapy in improving glucose metabolism.
Insulin Resistance: Probiotic therapy also exhibited a reduction in insulin resistance and insulin concentration, suggesting broader positive effects on diabetes-related indicators.
This meta-analysis suggests that incorporating probiotics into the diet could potentially offer benefits in managing glucose metabolism in individuals with type 2 diabetes, especially with longer intervention periods or consumption of diverse probiotic strains.
8. Chromium
https://www.metabolismjournal.com/article/S0026-0495(06)00083-7/fulltext
This study aimed to assess the effects and safety of chromium-containing milk powder in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) through a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in Taiwan. Here's a breakdown of the study's key findings:
Duration and Type of Probiotics: Longer intervention periods (≥8 weeks) and consumption of multiple probiotic species may enhance the effectiveness of probiotic therapy in improving glucose metabolism.
Insulin Resistance: Probiotic therapy also exhibited a reduction in insulin resistance and insulin concentration, suggesting broader positive effects on diabetes-related indicators.
This meta-analysis suggests that incorporating probiotics into the diet could potentially offer benefits in managing glucose metabolism in individuals with type 2 diabetes, especially with longer intervention periods or consumption of diverse probiotic strains.
8. Chromium
https://www.metabolismjournal.com/article/S0026-0495(06)00083-7/fulltext
This study aimed to assess the effects and safety of chromium-containing milk powder in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) through a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in Taiwan. Here's a breakdown of the study's key findings:
Study Design:
Participants: 60 individuals with T2DM, aged 30 to 75 years, with specific criteria for glycosylated hemoglobin, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), and body mass index.
Intervention: Participants were split into two groups, one receiving chromium-containing milk powder (200 μg chromium/20 g milk powder) and the other receiving placebo twice daily for 16 weeks.
Assessment: Frequently sampled intravenous glucose tolerance tests (IVGTT) were conducted before and after the treatment period.
Intervention: Participants were split into two groups, one receiving chromium-containing milk powder (200 μg chromium/20 g milk powder) and the other receiving placebo twice daily for 16 weeks.
Assessment: Frequently sampled intravenous glucose tolerance tests (IVGTT) were conducted before and after the treatment period.
Results:
Lower FPG and Fasting Insulin: The group receiving chromium-containing milk powder exhibited significantly reduced FPG and fasting insulin levels compared to the placebo group.
Specific Impact in Males: Male participants in the chromium group demonstrated more pronounced reductions in FPG and fasting insulin compared to females.
Improvement in Glycosylated Hemoglobin: Chromium-treated male patients showed lower glycosylated hemoglobin levels at the end of the study.
Specific Impact in Males: Male participants in the chromium group demonstrated more pronounced reductions in FPG and fasting insulin compared to females.
Improvement in Glycosylated Hemoglobin: Chromium-treated male patients showed lower glycosylated hemoglobin levels at the end of the study.
Insulin Resistance Improvement: Male participants in the chromium group showed enhanced insulin resistance parameters compared to the placebo group, indicating better metabolic control.
Other Observations:No Significant Changes in Lipid Profiles: While improvements in metabolic parameters were noted, lipid profiles (total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol) did not significantly change.
Safety: No adverse events were reported in both groups, except for mild complaints of constipation and flatulence in the chromium group (5% each).
Other Observations:No Significant Changes in Lipid Profiles: While improvements in metabolic parameters were noted, lipid profiles (total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol) did not significantly change.
Safety: No adverse events were reported in both groups, except for mild complaints of constipation and flatulence in the chromium group (5% each).
Conclusion:
Positive Effects: Intake of milk powder containing 400 μg/day of chromium for 16 weeks in individuals with T2DM resulted in decreased FPG, fasting insulin levels, and improved metabolic control, particularly in male patients.
Safety Profile: The intervention showed no significant adverse effects apart from mild gastrointestinal complaints in a small percentage of participants.
This study suggests that chromium-containing milk powder supplementation could potentially offer beneficial effects in managing glucose levels and improving metabolic control in individuals with type 2 diabetes, particularly among male participants, with an acceptable safety profile.
9. Ginseng
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00394-018-1642-0
Safety Profile: The intervention showed no significant adverse effects apart from mild gastrointestinal complaints in a small percentage of participants.
This study suggests that chromium-containing milk powder supplementation could potentially offer beneficial effects in managing glucose levels and improving metabolic control in individuals with type 2 diabetes, particularly among male participants, with an acceptable safety profile.
9. Ginseng
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00394-018-1642-0
This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius [AG]) as an additional therapy in individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) who were already under conventional treatment.
Methodology:
Participants: 24 individuals with T2DM (11 females, 13 males; average age 64) completed the study.
Design: Employed a double-blind, cross-over design.
Design: Employed a double-blind, cross-over design.
Treatment:
Participants received either 1g/meal (3g/day) of AG extract or placebo for 8 weeks, while maintaining their usual treatment. After a ≥4-week washout period, they were switched to the opposite treatment arm for another 8 weeks.
Primary Objective: Evaluation of HbA1c.
Secondary Endpoints: Included fasting blood glucose, insulin, blood pressure, plasma lipids, serum nitrates/nitrites (NOx), and plasminogen-activating factor-1 (PAI-1). Safety parameters, such as liver and kidney function, were monitored.
Results:
Effectiveness: AG extract significantly reduced HbA1c and fasting blood glucose levels compared to placebo.
Additional Benefits: AG intake was associated with lowered systolic blood pressure, increased NOx levels, and reductions in LDL-C and LDL-C/HDL.
Safety: No adverse effects on safety parameters like liver and kidney function were observed.
Additional Benefits: AG intake was associated with lowered systolic blood pressure, increased NOx levels, and reductions in LDL-C and LDL-C/HDL.
Safety: No adverse effects on safety parameters like liver and kidney function were observed.
Conclusions:
Efficacy and Safety: AG extract, as an add-on therapy to conventional treatment, proved effective and safe in managing T2DM.
Need for Further Research: Larger studies using standardized ginseng preparations are required to validate and expand upon these findings, showcasing the therapeutic potential of AG in T2DM management.
This study underscores the promising role of American ginseng as a supplementary therapy for individuals with type 2 diabetes, indicating improved glycemic control and additional cardiovascular benefits without adverse effects on safety parameters. However, larger-scale investigations using standardized ginseng preparations are necessary to validate these findings and establish the therapeutic effectiveness of AG in diabetes management.
10. Green Tea
https://ajcn.nutrition.org/article/S0002-9165(23)05180-8/fulltext
Need for Further Research: Larger studies using standardized ginseng preparations are required to validate and expand upon these findings, showcasing the therapeutic potential of AG in T2DM management.
This study underscores the promising role of American ginseng as a supplementary therapy for individuals with type 2 diabetes, indicating improved glycemic control and additional cardiovascular benefits without adverse effects on safety parameters. However, larger-scale investigations using standardized ginseng preparations are necessary to validate these findings and establish the therapeutic effectiveness of AG in diabetes management.
10. Green Tea
https://ajcn.nutrition.org/article/S0002-9165(23)05180-8/fulltext
Objective:
To assess the impact of green tea on glucose control and insulin sensitivity through a comprehensive review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).
Methodology:
Conducted a systematic literature search of PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library for RCTs (up to January 2013).
Assessed study quality using the Jadad scale.
Calculated weighted mean differences for glycemic measures.
Performed subgroup, sensitivity, and meta-regression analyses.
Assessed study quality using the Jadad scale.
Calculated weighted mean differences for glycemic measures.
Performed subgroup, sensitivity, and meta-regression analyses.
Results:
Trials & Subjects: 17 trials involving 1133 subjects included.
Effect of Green Tea:Fasting Glucose: Significant reduction (−0.09 mmol/L).
Hb A1c: Substantial decrease (−0.30%).
High Jadad Score Studies:Showed significant reduction in fasting insulin concentrations (−1.16 μIU/mL).
Effect of Green Tea:Fasting Glucose: Significant reduction (−0.09 mmol/L).
Hb A1c: Substantial decrease (−0.30%).
High Jadad Score Studies:Showed significant reduction in fasting insulin concentrations (−1.16 μIU/mL).
Conclusions:
Favorable Effects: Green tea consumption showed positive outcomes, notably decreasing fasting glucose and Hb A1c concentrations.
Higher Quality Trials: Studies with higher Jadad scores exhibited significant reductions in fasting insulin levels, indicating enhanced insulin sensitivity due to green tea consumption.
Higher Quality Trials: Studies with higher Jadad scores exhibited significant reductions in fasting insulin levels, indicating enhanced insulin sensitivity due to green tea consumption.
