7 Mineral and Vitamin Supplements That Prevent Diabetes

by >> Xylene Belita

Diabetes afflicts millions around the world - 24 million in 2008 in the United States. These numbers grow annually, but with the assistance of 7 mineral and vitamin supplements that prevent diabetes, onset of the condition can be delayed or prevented altogether.

This condition is found in children and adults worldwide. Diabetes causes the blood sugar level in the body to increase, which can only be controlled, as there is currently no cure. There are two types of diabetes: Type 1, which occurs when the body does not produce enough of the hormone insulin that enables the absorption of glucose by the body\'s cells, and Type 2, which is caused by the body\'s cells not using insulin properly, otherwise known as insulin resistance.

Vitamin D

One of several vitamins used in the prevention of diabetes is Vitamin D. A recent study at Massey University showed that higher than usual doses of this vitamin may increase insulin sensitivity. Because sunlight is the best source of this vitamin, a higher dose may be particularly useful to people living in colder climes or who do not get the opportunity to get out into the sunshine often.

Vitamin E and Magnesium

Vitamin E is believed to improve insulin activity, as is magnesium, making the insulin more effective and helping to regulate the level of blood sugar in the body. Biotin is one of the B vitamins that has been shown to increase the activity of the enzyme controlling the first stage in glucose utilization, called glucokinase.