Diabetes Supplements: Top Picks from a Dietitian

Feb 13, 2025

Living with diabetes requires careful management, and supplements can play an important role in supporting overall health.

According to a Diabetes Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Educator, they often receive the question, “What supplements do you recommend?” To answer this, here are the three supplements that are used regularly. These supplements have been chosen specifically to support health with both Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) and Type 2 Diabetes (T2D), and they may also benefit others.

1. Diavitamin by SugarMD – The All-in-One Multivitamin

One of the top supplements recommended is Diavitamin by SugarMD, a comprehensive multivitamin designed for people living with diabetes. What makes Diavitamin stand out is that it’s not just a regular multivitamin but also includes ingredients specifically beneficial for those with diabetes. It contains a variety of essential nutrients like B vitamins, Vitamin C, and Vitamin D, which help support overall well-being. However, what makes it unique is its inclusion of Vanadium, a mineral that may help improve insulin sensitivity for both Type 1 diabetes and Type 2 diabetes. Additionally, it includes Alpha Lipoic Acid, which the dietitian has previously discussed in a video, as well as Lycopene, an antioxidant that supports general health.

2. Zinc – Immune Support and Reduced Illness Duration

For immune support, the Diabetes Dietitian recommends Zinc, a supplement they’ve personally used for years. While Diavitamin provides some zinc, it can also take an additional dose for its proven benefits in boosting the immune system and reducing the intensity and duration of illnesses. Zinc is particularly important for individuals living with diabetes, as a strong immune system can help prevent complications and aid in managing the condition. When living with T2D or T1D, maintaining a healthy immune system is crucial for avoiding sickness and ensuring overall health. Zinc is often included in a broader diabetes care plan due to its ability to enhance immune function.

3. L-Citrulline – Enhancing Workouts and Blood Flow

Another supplement recommended by the T1D Dietitian and T2D Dietitian is L-Citrulline, an amino acid known for its ability to increase nitric oxide production in the body. Nitric oxide helps to dilate blood vessels, improving blood flow throughout the body. This is especially important for people with diabetes who need to maintain good cardiovascular health. L-Citrulline can be used before workouts to help delay fatigue, allowing you to push through additional sets and reps during exercise. This supplement improves blood flow and helps enhance workout performance, which is key for managing Type 2 diabetes or Type 1 diabetes. Staying active is essential for diabetes management, and L-Citrulline is an excellent supplement to consider for improving exercise outcomes.

Final Thoughts: Consult Your Care Team

While these supplements — Diavitamin, Zinc, and L-Citrulline — have been beneficial for the dietitian, it’s important to remember that everyone’s diabetes management plan is unique. Before adding any supplements to a routine, it’s essential to talk with a Diabetes Dietitian or Diabetes Educator to ensure that the supplements are safe and effective for individual needs. Some supplements can affect blood sugar levels, so it’s always crucial to consult a healthcare team before making any changes to a regimen.