Dietary supplements and DM Flashcards
What are the recommendations re: the CAM use of Aloe?
Although studies have shown some benefit, there is insufficient evidence for use of aloe as an oral product in DM or pre DM. Short term use has decreased fasting glucose, TG, LDL and A1c. Supplementation is NOT recommended, d/t potential contamination w/ carthartic ingredients and problems with fluid/lyte disturbance, esp K+
What are the CAM recommendations for Berberine?
One of the more promising supplements that may benefit pt’s with DM (works for lowering lipids and BP in addition to glucose). Doses in studies have been 500 mg 2-3x daily. NOT for use in pregnant/lactating women. May interfere with other meds d/t inhibition in P450 enzymes
What are the CAM recommendations for bitter melon?
Overall evidence does not justify use; however, many pt’s throughout the world consume it as a veggies as part of their diet
What are the CAM recommendations re: Chromium (trace element found in foods such as brewer’s yeast, oysters, mushrooms, liver, etc)
Research not conclusive, esp in light of lack of info re: most appropriate biomarkers for chromium or most appropriate formulation. If used, picolinate salt appears to have superior bioavailability
What are the CAM recommendations re: cinnamon?
Cinnamon used in food is safe, though conflicting evidence for DM and pre DM though interest remains high
What are the CAM recommendations for Fenugreek?
GRAS; however, the quality of studies evaluating this agent are suboptimal. Should be avoided in pt’s taking antiplatlets
What are the CAM recommendations re: Flaxseed?
Studies have shown mixed result; however, fiber content promotes satiety and possibly helps w/ wt loss. Fiber contained in it helps decrease glucose absorption, postprandial glucose and also lipids/BP
What are the CAM recommendations for ginger?
May have modest effect on glucose stability when taken long term, but may not produce reductions in fasting glu when taking for <3 months. Doses ~3 g/day needed to see effects, but also may cause GI side effects
What are the CAM recommendations re: Ginseng?
May provide some benefit but difficult to know its appropriate forma and dose, and there are variety of side effects/drug interactions. Length of use should be limited to 3 months due to concern for hormone effects
What are the CAM recommendations for Gymnema?
May help stimulate glucose uptake/utilization and help stimulate beta cell function. May help treat obesity since it binds to same taste buds where sugar binds (thus reducing cravings)
What are the CAM recommendations re: honey?
Human studies re: benefits of honey in DM are limited. However, likely safe to use
What are the CAM recommendations re: milk thistle?
May be safe to use, proposed to diminish insulin resistance. May have estrogenic effects, so avoid in breast CA or uterine CA
May attenuate hepatotoxicity of liver toxic drugs. Dose is usually 200 mg 3 times daily for liber disease
What are the CAM recommendations for Nopal (aka prickly pear)?
May help lower BG when cooked or taken as a supplment. Popular food used by many hispanics. May decrease CHO absorption d/t soluble fiber and pectin content.
High fiber, low calorie food that may be useful for DM and HLD
What is the CAM recommendation re: probiotics?
Improvement in managing DM is not definitive; caution in pancreatitis, Abx use (separate by 2 hours), and immunosuppression
What is the CAM recommendation for psyllium fiber?
Generally safe when taken w/ sufficient fluid, used to increase fiber intake, which is known to improve lipid profiles and reduce CVD risk. May have modest effects on glu in DM2.
