Chromium deficiency can significantly reduce the sensitivity of the body cells to the hormone insulin. Although very small amounts of chromium is needed for maintaining the normal blood sugar level, a diet loaded with sugary foods and inadequate physical activities might deplete the chromium reserve in the body. Low chromium levels are linked to excess sugar accumulation in the bloodstream. The sugar level in the blood can be lowered by increasing intake of chromium rich foods and supplements. Whole grain products, brewer’s yeast, cheeses, lean meat, thyme and black pepper are common dietary sources of chromium. Dietary supplements containing chromium picolinate are often effective in bringing down the blood sugar level in diabetics.

Increasing magnesium intake can benefit diabetics. Magnesium plays an important role in regulating the production and activities of insulin. Deficiency of this essential mineral can aggravate insulin resistance, reducing the ability of the body cells to use insulin for absorbing glucose from the blood. Excess sugar present in the bloodstream further aggravates loss of magnesium by increasing the frequency of urination, further worsening magnesium deficiency and insulin resistance. Diabetics can control their blood sugar level by consuming magnesium rich foods such as leafy green vegetables, whole grains, legumes and nuts. Supplements containing 250 to 300mg of magnesium can be taken daily.

Alpha-lipoic acid aids glucose metabolism. Several scientific studies suggest that alpha-lipoic acid supplement can lower the blood sugar level in diabetics. The antioxidant property of alpha-lipoic acid can prevent nerve damage or neuropathy, a common diabetes-related complication. Diabetics can take up to 800mg of alpha-lipoic acid supplement daily. However, diabetics on blood sugar lowering medications should be cautious while using the alpha-lipoic acid supplements. High doses of alpha-lipoic acid combined with diabetes medications can cause hypoglycemia.

Fenugreek seeds are often effective in bringing down the blood sugar level. Scientists speculate that this traditional home remedy for diabetes reduces the blood sugar level by slowing down sugar absorption in the stomach and inducing insulin production in the pancreas. Fenugreek seeds are well tolerated. However, they might interact with anti-diabetes drugs and anticoagulants.

Bitter melon owes its anti-diabetic property to a compound called charantin. According to studies, the bitter components in the vegetable can increase sensitivity to insulin. In addition, bitter melon activates proteins that support glucose absorption. Moreover, bitter melon contains lectin, a compound that mimics insulin. Besides reducing sugar concentration in the blood, lectin helps to suppress appetite in diabetics. Bitter melon is safe for most diabetics. However, high doses of bitter melon extract present in supplements when combined with anti-diabetes drugs increases the risk of hypoglycemia.

Vanadium is a trace mineral that can increase sensitivity to insulin, lowering the blood sugar level naturally. Mushroom, parsely, whole grain products, black pepper and shellfish are common dietary sources of vanadium. Normally, 18mcg of the mineral is sufficient for a healthy adult. However, diabetics can take higher doses of vanadium daily. Very high doses of vanadium, above 1.8mg per day, can damage the liver and the kidneys. It also increases the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with anti-diabetes drugs.

Aloe vera gel, a common home remedy for skin disorders, can also lower the blood sugar level. Compounds known as phytosterols present in aloe vera gel can reduce the concentration of glucose in the blood. When taken in moderate doses, aloe vera gel is well tolerated. Diabetics who take aloe vera gel along with anti-diabetes drugs should closely monitor their blood sugar levels to prevent abnormal decline in the sugar level.

Coenzyme Q10 is an antioxidant substance that occurs naturally in the body. Coenzyme supplements can aid diabetes control. Studies have shown that regular intake of 100mg of coenzyme Q10 can reduce the sugar level in the blood. Moreover, it can protect diabetics from heart problems. Coenzyme Q10 is present in whole grains, oily fish and organ meats. Supplements containing Coenzyme Q10 are not linked to adverse side effects.

Ginkgo biloba improves the activities of the pancreas. By activating the pancreatic cells, this herb enhances insulin secretion in diabetics. Studies suggest that ginkgo biloba can reduce the risk of strokes and heart diseases in type II diabetes patients.