The narrator discusses 4 key vitamins that can benefit people with diabetes:
Vitamin D - Higher levels are associated with lower diabetes risk. Vitamin D may improve insulin function and glucose metabolism.
Vitamin C - Acts as an antioxidant, reducing oxidative stress. May help regulate blood sugar and mimic some exercise benefits for vascular health.
Vitamin B1 (thiamine) - Deficiencies are common in diabetics. Supplementation may reduce risk of neuropathy and diabetic kidney and vascular issues.
Vitamin B12 - Diabetes medication metformin can decrease B12 absorption, increasing neuropathy risk. Those on metformin may need to monitor/supplement B12.
In addition to medication and exercise, vitamins play important roles in managing diabetes through various mechanisms. Consulting a healthcare professional is recommended.
The narrator states that when you have insulin resistance, the most important component to reversing it is the food you eat. However, there are certain over-the-counter supplements that can help enhance and speed up results.
The five supplements discussed have been shown in clinical research to improve insulin sensitivity through various mechanisms. They can help better control blood sugar and reach goals faster.
Diet change is critical when reversing insulin resistance. You can't just take these supplements without other changes and expect lasting results. You don't have to take all five, as some work similarly, but some are better when combined.
Magnesium is an essential mineral that works with insulin receptors to store blood sugar. Low magnesium levels are linked to poor insulin sensitivity. Most people are deficient in this mineral. 250 to 350 Mig of magnesium per day has been beneficial.
Berberine has the strongest evidence supporting its effectiveness. It is a natural compound that helps the body break down sugars inside cells, decreasing sugar production and improving insulin sensitivity. 500 to 900 milligrams of berberine two to three times per day is generally recommended.
Iosol (vitamin B8) gets depleted when blood sugar is high and plays a role in insulin signaling. If berberine is working, iosol may not be necessary. 1 to 2 grams a day of iosol is recommended.
Chromium enhances cells' response to insulin. 35 micrograms per day is recommended for men and 25 micrograms for women, but higher doses might help those insulin resistant.
Gaba is an amino acid that helps regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin resistance.
The narrator explores whether supplements can help manage diabetes. Some studies suggest cinnamon can improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood glucose levels, but results are mixed. Berberine significantly lowered blood sugar levels in some research. Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) improved insulin sensitivity in one study. Magnesium supplementation enhanced insulin sensitivity for some diabetics in a few studies. Chromium picolinate improved blood glucose control in one study, but evidence is inconsistent. Vitamin D supplementation boosted insulin sensitivity in one study. Omega-3 fatty acids reduced inflammation for diabetics in one study.
An intriguing aspect is that combining multiple supplements may offer greater benefits than individual supplements alone. One study found improved insulin sensitivity from a combo of vitamin D, magnesium, and omega-3s. Supplements may help manage diabetes but effectiveness varies individually. It's essential to use caution, consult a healthcare provider, and make informed decisions.
The narrator introduces a list of the top 5 supplements for managing diabetes. The list was compiled based on research, popularity, and the narrator's opinion.
At number 5 is the Neutral Cost Vitamin B1 Tyamine Supplement. At number 4 is the Neutral Cost Alpha Lipoic Acid Supplement. The Nature's Bounty Magnesium Supplement is at number 3.
The Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega Omega-3 Soft Gels is ranked number 2. At number 1 is the Naturewise Vitamin D Supplement.
The narrator encourages viewers to share which of these five supplements they would be most interested in trying. Viewers are also prompted to subscribe and watch other related videos.
The narrator was told by his doctor that he needed to go on blood pressure medication. After trying one medication with no results, the doctor prescribed a second medication. Not wanting to go on medication yet, the narrator decided to try to lower his blood pressure naturally in 30 days.
He started tracking his blood pressure obsessively with a blood pressure cuff before and after activities. He noticed a spike of 20-25 points after his regular morning coffee. Switching to decaf helped but didn't eliminate the spike. Completely reorganizing his schedule to exercise in the morning and reduce work stress led to the best results.
After a month, his doctor found his blood pressure was in a healthy zone, so he didn't need medication yet. Surprisingly, the narrator's vision also improved from this experiment, after having worn glasses for 10 years due to a football injury. Doctors told him lowering blood pressure may have helped his vision.
He emphasizes that diet, exercise, stress management are key for blood pressure, and he will likely need medication eventually. Checking blood pressure obsessively helped him find his personal triggers to address.