← Return to Preventing diabetes: Questions about chromium supplements, chia seeds

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@colleenyoung

@sarasotababe, We took your question to a Mayo Clinic pharmacist. She writes:

"Chromium is considered “likely safe” when taken by mouth and used short term (1000 mcg daily for up to 6 months), it is “possibly safe” when used long term (up to 2 years). There is evidence that shows chromium can decrease fasting blood glucose, insulin levels, and hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C), and can increase insulin sensitivity in people with type 2 diabetes. Some newer studies suggest that chromium may also help those with type 1 diabetes and gestational diabetes. Not all studies show theses positive results, however, and some of the research indicates that the supplementation is more beneficial to people with poor nutrition or those who may have low chromium levels. In general, this is generally accepted as a safe natural product to help with diabetes. Be sure to let your healthcare provider know if you are taking it so they may follow your progress."

I also found this article about chia seeds written by Allie Wergin, registered dietician http://mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/chia-the-nutrition-packed-power-seed

Good for you for being proactive about your health.

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Replies to "@sarasotababe, We took your question to a Mayo Clinic pharmacist. She writes: "Chromium is considered “likely..."

Colleen

I appreciate your support. Do you know whether chia seeds help regulate blood sugar?

Tried to open page on chia seeds but got the mention "page not found". Any other info on chia seeds since I'm interested as a diabetic person.

Hi Ankie,
The article cited above no longer exists. Here are some others I found that may be of interest:

- CHIA: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions and Warnings from WebMD http://wb.md/2iZrDbz
- A Chia Pet for diabetes? from Harvard Health http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/a-chia-pet-for-diabetes-20101217923
- 7 New Diabetes Superfoods You Should Try from Everyday Health http://bit.ly/2ibi7oA