Glycemic Manager By Integrative Therapeutics Overview & Drug Interactions

Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is a water-soluble vitamin found in a variety of foods, including meat, poultry, fish, and fortified grains. It plays a variety of roles in the body, including in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also necessary for the production of energy in the body and in the synthesis of different hormones. Niacin deficiency is rare in developed countries, however, supplementation has been shown to have several positive benefits. For example, it can reduce the risk of diabetic neuropathy (i.e., nerve pain) and has been shown effective for treating some types of high cholesterol (extended-release niacin is used as a prescription drug in the United States for this purpose). There is a multitude of niacin forms available as dietary supplements, including NADH, niacinamide, and nicotinamide riboside, all with different properties.

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin crucial for several bodily functions. It plays a pivotal role in the formation of red blood cells, aiding in the prevention of anemia. Vitamin B12 is essential for maintaining a healthy nervous system and proper brain function, as it is involved in the synthesis of myelin, the protective sheath around nerve fibers. This vitamin is primarily found in animal-based foods such as meat, fish, dairy products, and eggs, making it important for vegetarians and vegans to consider supplementation. A deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to neurological issues, fatigue, and cognitive impairment.

Biotin, also known as vitamin H or vitamin B7, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a role in various metabolic processes in the body. It is necessary for the growth and maintenance of healthy skin, hair, and nails, and is also involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and amino acids. Biotin is considered to be generally safe when consumed in the recommended daily amounts but it is important to note that consuming large amounts of biotin-containing supplements or products can cause falsely high or falsely low test results for certain laboratory tests, such as those for thyroid function, hormone levels, and certain biomarkers for certain diseases.

Choline is an essential nutrient that is found in many foods, including eggs, and is important for a number of bodily functions, including liver function, brain development, and nerve function. Choline is a precursor to acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in memory, mood, and muscle control. Choline also helps to transport fats out of the liver, which may help to reduce the risk of liver disease. Choline supplements are available in different forms, including choline bitartrate, choline chloride, and phosphatidylcholine. Choline bitartrate is the most common form of choline supplement, but phosphatidylcholine is the form that is found naturally in foods.

Magnesium is a mineral that is essential for the proper functioning of the body. It plays a role in many important physiological processes, including the contraction and relaxation of muscles, the transmission of nerve impulses, and the regulation of blood pressure. Magnesium is found in a variety of foods, including leafy green vegetables, nuts, and grains, and it is also available as a dietary supplement. There are several different forms of magnesium that are available as supplements, all of which can be used to prevent deficiency. Additionally, magnesium is purported to have several different health benefits, such as improving sleep, reducing muscle cramps, reducing anxiety, and preventing or treating migraines. Although magnesium is essential for health, magnesium-containing foods and supplements can interact with some prescription medications if used at the same time.

Zinc is a mineral that is essential for the proper functioning of the human body. It is involved in many important physiological processes, including immune system function, wound healing, taste, and smell. Zinc is found in a variety of foods, including meat, seafood, and whole grains, and it is also available as a dietary supplement. Zinc supplements may be used to treat or prevent zinc deficiency, which can occur due to certain medical conditions, such as gastrointestinal disorders, alcohol abuse, and certain medications. Zinc supplements may also be used for other purposes, such as to boost the immune system, improve acne, and reduce the severity and duration of colds. There are several different forms of zinc supplements available, including zinc gluconate, zinc acetate, and zinc sulfate. The most common form of zinc supplements is zinc gluconate, which is well absorbed and is less likely to cause stomach-related side effects than other forms of zinc.

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is a naturally occurring compound that is made by the body and is also found in some foods, such as spinach, broccoli, and potatoes. It plays a role in energy production in the body and acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. ALA has been studied for its potential health benefits, including the treatment of certain types of nerve damage, diabetes, and liver disease.

Bitter melon, also known as bitter gourd or karela, is a tropical fruit native to Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean. It is a long, green fruit with a bumpy exterior and flesh that is pale green or white in color. In traditional medicine, bitter melon is purported to have a number of health benefits. It is a rich source of antioxidants and has been historically used as a natural remedy for a variety of ailments, including diabetes, asthma, and immune conditions.

Gymnema (Gymnema sylvestre) is a plant species native to India and Africa that has been used traditionally in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries to treat a range of conditions, including diabetes, obesity, and digestive problems. Gymnema is thought to work by inhibiting the absorption of sugar in the intestines and by increasing the production of insulin in the pancreas. If applied topically to the tongue, it reduces the sweetness and bitter sensation of foods, which may deter excess sugar intake (the plant is sometimes referred to informally as 'the sugar destroyer'). One of the most popular natural medicines utilized for dietary supplements, an extract of the leaf (Gymnema leaf extract) is the most often standardized for use, although the root can be used as well.

Morella cerifera, commonly known as wax myrtle, southern bayberry, or simply bayberry, is a small evergreen shrub native to the southeastern United States. It is known for its waxy berries and aromatic leaves, which have been used in traditional medicine for various purposes. In dietary supplements, Morella cerifera is often included for its rich content of flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which are believed to possess antioxidant properties. Some studies also suggest that extracts from Morella cerifera may also have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

Bilberry is a small, perennial shrub that belongs to the Ericaceae family and is native to Europe, the northern United States, and Canada. It is known for its small, dark purple berries, which are similar in appearance to blueberries. The name bilberry is derived from the Danish word 'bollebar', meaning "dark berry". Bilberry is high in antioxidants, including flavonoids, and are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin E, and manganese. Bilberry has a long history of use in traditional medicine and is claimed to have a number of potential health benefits, including improving vision, reducing inflammation, and treating diarrhea.

Vanadium is a chemical element with the symbol V and atomic number 23. It is a soft, silvery-grey metal that is found in small amounts in various minerals and rocks. Vanadium is used in a variety of industrial applications, including the production of steel and as a chemical catalyst. Vanadium is an essential trace mineral that is required by the body in small amounts for proper growth and development. The human body does not naturally produce it. It is involved in several important biological processes, including the metabolism of carbohydrates and the synthesis of proteins and DNA. Vanadium supplements are sometimes marketed as a way to improve athletic performance, lower cholesterol levels, and manage diabetes. However, there is limited scientific evidence to support the use of vanadium supplements for these purposes and high levels of vanadium can be toxic. It must be used cautiously.