Although health supplements cannot help cure diabetes, nutrition supplements can help manage diabetes. These should be combined with good dietary habits and exercise to get maximum benefit. Popular supplements used to manage diabetes are omega-3 fatty acids, alpha lipoic acid, chromium, coenzyme Q10 and magnesium.

 Chromium is micronutrient that works in co-ordination with insulin and transports glucose to cells. It is also involved in carbohydrate, fat and protein metabolism. Omega 3 fatty acids are essential fatty acids that help maintain heart health. Magnesium improves the functioning of insulin and helps lower blood sugar levels. Magnesium supplements may have a laxative effect. Magnesium glycinae is an easily absorbed form of magnesium with minimum laxative effect. Alpha lipoic acid enhances uptake of glucose and promotes eye and nerve health.

It is particularly useful in treatment of diabetic neuropathy. Botanical substances like garlic, bitter melon, fenugreek, ginseng, etc are also effective in reducing blood sugar levels. These supplements help in maintaining nerve and eye health. They also reduce high blood cholesterol and blood pressure and boost insulin sensitivity. Since these substances may reduce sugar levels, interact with other drugs or cause other side effects, they must be used only after consulting your doctor.