Alpha Lipoic Acid
I have seen several references to Lipoic Acid and its benefit for blood glucose levels. What can you tell me about the use of this supplement?

I have seen several references to Lipoic Acid and its benefit for blood glucose levels. What can you tell me about the use of this supplement?


Why isn’t there more information or emphasis on alternative therapies for diabetes?

My aunt has started taking BYETTA®, and she loves it—she has lost weight and has improved her diabetes control. Is this a drug for me as well? I currently take Glucophage®, am overweight, and am not well controlled; my doctor said it is time to add more medication.

I have type 2 diabetes. I read on a USDA website about a study where 1000 mcg Chromium Picolinate spread out through the day went a long way towards lowering blood sugar. I showed the report to my doctor. He said he could not believe it, but to give it a try. I did, and for the last 3 weeks my blood glucose has been normal in the morning, noon and night even though I stopped taking the oral medication. Have you seen any other reference to using Chromium at high levels for this purpose?

I read an article about spices. One of the items they mentioned was that cinnamon can improve blood sugar. Is that true? Can I use cinnamon to decrease the amount of insulin injected? How can I calculate what amount reduces what amount of glucose?

Are the combination pills, such as Avandamet®, Glucovance® and Metaglip® better than taking the individual pills?

I have been taking Avandia® for several years with no problems, but due to the recent publicity and FDA warnings about heart problems, my doctor called and wants to see me next week to discuss my medication. Can you explain better what this was all about? I am tempted to stop my Avandia right now.

I have type 2 diabetes treated with Amaryl®. Now my doctor has added Lipitor®. What does Lipitor do?

Can you explain to me how Glucophage XR® works? I have lost 14 pounds since being diagnosed and I am successfully keeping my blood sugar under control by counting carbs. I am supposed to take two-500mg pills in the morning & two at night. Actually the orders say 2 twice a day. I have found that I don't need the medication in the morning as I don't eat much breakfast and I go to an exercise class 5 days a week. So I take 1 or 2 pills at lunch depending on how many carbs I am going to eat ...