Overview

Why support healthy blood sugar metabolism?
Current dietary habits demand metabolism support:†

Many diets today are high in sugars and other sweeteners. However, the right combination of herbs can help maintain healthy blood glucose metabolism.†

Why take Doctor's Choice™ for Diabetics^†?
Includes clinically-studied herbs for glucose metabolism:†

Doctor's Choice™ for Diabetics^† includes herbs you may not have heard of, but are known to support healthy blood sugar metabolism: gymnema, bitter melon, and fenugreek.† Perfect in combination with other Doctor's Choice age and gender-specific multivitamins.

Directions

Two tablets twice daily. Can be taken with meals.

Pill Size

Interactions and Depletions

 

Technical Data

Description

Doctor's Choice for Glucose Regulation dietary supplement provides nutritional support for individuals looking to support healthy blood sugar metabolism.^† The formula combines essential nutrients with powerful botanicals long-used for their ability to promote healthy insulin and blood sugar levels that are already within the normal range.^†Doctor's Choice for Glucose Regulation also contains 200 mcg of chromium picolinate, a clinically effective level, which has been shown to enhance blood sugar metabolism.^†

Doctor's Choice for Glucose Regulation:^†

• High potency, broad spectrum formula
• Includes the 3 most clinically studied herbs for glucose metabolism – gymnema, bitter melon, and fenugreek^†
• Provides an effective dose of chromium picolinate, a bioavailable form of chromium
• Restores the B vitamins commonly depleted by oral diabetes medications, such as metformin^†1,2

Doctor's Choice for Glucose Regulation is designed to be used in conjunction with Doctor's Choice age and gender-specific multiple vitamins.

Introduction

Blood Sugar Basics
The term “blood sugar” refers to the level of glucose found in the blood. Glucose is a simple sugar and the body's primary source of cellular energy. Although blood glucose levels generally stay within defined limits throughout the day (between 4 to 8 mmol/L), fluctuations follow a relatively set pattern. Blood sugar rises immediately after meals and falls within approximately two hours. Levels are typically lowest in the morning or following periods of fasting. The speed at which blood sugar rises and falls and the level to which it will increase are dependent upon both internal (i.e., hormonal regulation) and external (e.g., diet and exercise) variables. ³

Regulation of Blood Sugar
Blood sugar concentration, also referred to as serum glucose level, is closely and continuously monitored by the pancreas, a gland which plays important roles in both the digestive and endocrine systems. When blood glucose levels fall, the pancreas releases the hormone glucagon. Glucagon is converted to glucose by the liver. Hence, the release of glucagon helps restore blood glucose levels.

Blood sugar can also be increased through the intake of food. When food is digested, it is broken down into basic chemical components. Dietary proteins are metabolized to individual amino acids; fat molecules get broken down into glycerol and fatty acids; and carbohydrates are broken down to simple sugars (e.g., glucose). Consuming foods containing high levels of carbohydrates can significantly impact blood glucose levels.

And when blood sugar levels rise, insulin is released by the beta cells of the Islets of Langerhans found in the pancreas. This hormone causes the liver to pull excess glucose from the bloodstream and convert it to glycogen for storage.³

How Does It Work?

Doctor's Choice^™ for Glucose Regulation dietary supplement provides key nutrients and traditional botanicals to support an optimal insulin response and promote healthy blood sugar metabolism.^† The following chart summarizes the key benefits of each of the ingredients in Doctor's Choice for Glucose Regulation^†:

Ingredient	Benefit
Vitamin C	Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant found in many fruits and vegetables.† As a free radical scavenger, vitamin C provides protection for the inner lining of the arteries, blood vessels, and capillaries.†4 In addition, vitamin C has been shown to decrease the activity of the enzyme, aldose reductase. As a result, supplementation can offer the protective benefit of reducing the level of sorbitol found in the eyes, nerves, and kidneys.†5 Plasma vitamin C levels directly correlate to healthy insulin action.† Evidence indicates that supplementation can enhance glucose metabolism.† 6
Vitamin E	Vitamin E is another antioxidant, which inhibits the oxidation of cell membranes by inactivating free radicals.† It has been clinically shown to enhance blood vessel function.†7,8 Research has also demonstrated that vitamin E supplementation can enhance insulin action and improve glucose utilization in cells.† 9,10
Vitamin B6	Vitamin B6 functions in its active form as pyridoxal phosphate, a coenzyme necessary for proper carbohydrate metabolism.† As such, vitamin B6 is closely involved in the breakdown of glucose and balancing blood glucose levels.† Vitamin B6 also helps lower levels of homocysteine, an amino acid inversely associated with cardiovascular health.†7
Folic Acid	Another homocysteine-lowering B-complex vitamin.†7 Supplemental folic acid also restores the B vitamins commonly depleted by oral diabetes medications.†1,2
Vitamin B12	In combination with folic acid, supplemental vitamin B12 helps restore B vitamins commonly depleted by oral diabetes medications.†1,2
Biotin	Biotin is an essential coenzyme required by the mitochondria of cells for the production of energy.†7 Supplemental biotin supports the body's optimal use of glucose.†
Magnesium	A constituent of many coenzymes that play a role in energy creation.†11 Magnesium status has been directly linked to insulin utilization by the body.†12,13 Supplementation has been shown to enhance healthy insulin responses and support healthy blood pressure levels already within normal limits.†14
Zinc	Several studies document the important role that zinc plays in the regulation of insulin production by the pancreas as well as glucose utilization by cells.† 15,16 In addition, zinc is associated with accelerated tissue repair.†13
Selenium	Selenium is an essential trace element and potent antioxidant.† Research has demonstrated that selenium is involved in processes which protect cell membranes from oxidative damage caused by byproducts of lipid metabolism.† Supplementation helps protect the arteries, blood vessels and capillaries from oxidative damage.†11,13
Copper	Another important trace mineral, copper is a component of superoxide dismutase, an antioxidant enzyme that supports healthy pancreatic beta-cell function.†17 Pancreatic beta-cells are responsible for the secretion of insulin.
Manganese	Manganese possesses documented antioxidant properties, thereby inhibiting free radical damage.† It activates several enzymes and is needed for the proper production and release of insulin.†11
Chromium	A trace mineral widely distributed in nature, chromium is required for the synthesis of glucose tolerance factor (GTF), which is needed for proper glucose metabolism.† It enhances the effectiveness of insulin on carbohydrate metabolism.†11 Chromium picolinate has been clinically shown to support healthy insulin and blood sugar metabolism.† 18,19 Clinical research suggests that chromium may also reduce carbohydrate cravings.† 20
Bitter Melon	Bitter melon is a tropical vine from the Cucurbitaceae family. Compounds found in Momordica charantia have structural similarities to insulin, the critical blood sugar-modulating hormone. Several studies have shown that supplementation with bitter melon can positively impact blood sugar levels already within normal limits.†21,22
Gymnema Leaf	Several studies have demonstrated that supplementation with Gymnema sylvestre supports healthy blood sugar metabolism by reducing intestinal absorption of glucose.†23,24 Further research indicates gymnema may also support healthy weight management and support healthy blood lipid levels already within normal limits when taken in conjunction with chromium.†25
Fenugreek Seed	Fenugreek is a spice commonly used in India and the Middle East. Clinical studies suggest that fenugreek supports healthy blood sugar and cholesterol levels that are already within normal limits.† The herb also enhances the body's use of insulin.† 26,27
Bilberry Fruit	Anthocyanins present in bilberry help fortify blood vessel walls, improving blood flow and circulation throughout the body.† Studies suggest that supplementation can have a positive impact on the health of blood vessels found in the eyes.† 28 Bilberry has also been associated with healthy blood glucose levels already within normal limits.†29
Bioflavonoids	Derived from the rind of citrus fruits, bioflavonoids promote healthy circulation, venous tone and elasticity.† Through their antioxidant capabilities, bioflavonoids also accelerate tissue repair.† In addition, research suggests that citrus bioflavonoids support healthy blood sugar and cholesterol levels already within the normal limits, through their affects on glucose-regulating enzymes.† 30
Vanadium	An essential trace element, vanadium supports healthy blood sugar and lipid metabolism.† Clinical research suggests vanadium ay also improve insulin response and glucose control.†31,13

Conclusion
Doctor's Choice^™ for Glucose Regulation^† provides nutritional support for individuals looking to support healthy blood sugar levels already within normal limits.^† The comprehensive formula is designed to be used in conjunction with Doctor's Choice age and gender-specific multiple vitamins for optimal results.

Recommendations

Take 2 tablets 2 times daily. Can be taken with meals.

Precautions

If you are pregnant, nursing, or taking prescription drugs, consult your healthcare practitioner prior to use.

How Is It Supplied?

• 00129; 90 tablets

Storage Recommendations

Store at controlled room temperature, 59° to 86°F (15° – 30°C).

References

1. Wulffele HG, Kooy A, Lehert P, et al. Effects of short-term treatment with metformin on serum concentrations of homocysteine, folate and vitamin B12 in type 2 diabetes mellitus: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial. J Intern Med. 2003 Nov;254 (5):455-63.
2. Carpentier JL, Bury J, Luyckx A, et al. Vitamin B12 and folic acid serum levels in diabetics under various therapeutic regimens. Diabete Metab. 1976 Dec;2 (4):187-90.
3. Blood Glucose – Metabolic and Hormonal Regulation. In: Shils ME, Olson JA, Shike M, Ross AC, eds. Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease. 9th ed. Baltimore, MA. Williams & Wilkins. 1999:56-9.
4. Anderson RA, Evans LM, Ellis GR, Khan N, Morris K, Jackson SK, Rees A, Lewis MJ, Frenneaux MP. Prolonged deterioration of endothelial dysfunction in response to postprandial lipaemia is attenuated by vitamin C in Type 2 diabetes. Diabet Med. 2006 Mar;23(3):258-64.
5. Vincent TE, Mendiratta S, May JM. Inhibition of aldose reductase in human erythrocytes by vitamin C. Diabetes Res Clin Pract. 1999;43:1–8.
6. Paolisso G, D'Amore A, Balbi V, Volpe C, Galzerano D, Giugliano D, Sgambato S, Varricchio M, D'Onofrio F. Plasma vitamin C affects glucose homeostasis in healthy subjects and in non-insulin-dependent diabetics. Am J Physiol. 1994 Feb;266(2 Pt 1):E261-8.
7. Marieb EN. Vitamins. In: Human Anatomy and Physiology. 6th ed. San Francisco, CA. Pearson Benjamin Cummings. 2004:946-50.
8. Skyrme-Jones RA, O'Brien RC, Berry KL, Meredith IT. Vitamin E supplementation improves endothelial function in type I diabetes mellitus: a randomized, placebo-controlled study. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2000 Jul;36(1):94-102.
9. Skrha J, Sindelka G, Hilgertova J. The effect of fasting and vitamin E on insulin action in obese type 2 diabetes mellitus. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 1997 Sep 20;827:556-60.
10. Paolisso G, D'Amore A, Giugliano D, Ceriello A, Varricchio M, D'Onofrio F. Pharmacologic doses of vitamin E improve insulin action in healthy subjects and non-insulin-dependent diabetic patients. Am J Clin Nutr. 1993 May;57(5):650-6.
11. Marieb EN. Minerals. In: Human Anatomy and Physiology. 6th ed. San Francisco, CA. Pearson Benjamin Cummings. 2004:951-4.
12. Eibl NL, Kopp HP, Nowak HR, Schnack CJ, Hopmeier PG, Schernthaner G.. Hypomagnesemia in type II diabetes: effect of a 3-month replacement therapy. Diabetes Care. 1995 Feb;18(2):188-92.
13. Tuvemo T, Gebre-Medhin M. The role of trace minerals in juvenile diabetes mellitus. Pediatrician. 1983-1985;12(4):213-9.
14. Yokota K, Kato M, Lister F, Ii H, Hayakawa T, Kikuta T, Kageyama S, Tajima N. Clinical efficacy of magnesium supplementation in patients with type 2 diabetes. J Am Coll Nutr. 2004 Oct;23(5):506S-509S.
15. May JM, Contoreggi CS. The mechanism of the insulin-like effects of ionic zinc. J Biol Chem. 1982;257(8):4362-8.
16. Sprietsma JE, Schuitemaker GE. Diabetes can be prevented by reducing insulin production. Med Hypotheses. 1994 Jan;42(1):15-23.
17. Thaete LG, Crouch RK, Buse MG, Spicer SS. The protective role of copper-zinc superoxide dismutase against alloxan-induced diabetes: morphological aspects. Diabetologia. 1985 Sep;28(9):677-82.
18. Saner G, Yüzbasiyan V, Neyzi O, et al. Alterations of chromium metabolism and effect of chromium supplementation in Turner's syndrome patients. Am J Clin Nutr. 1983;38:574-8.
19. Riales R, Albrink MJ. Effect of chromium chloride supplementation on glucose tolerance and serum lipids including high-density lipoprotein of adult men. Am J Clin Nutr. 1981;34:2670-8.
20. Docherty JP, Sack DA, Roffman M, Finch M, Komorowski JR. A double-blind, placebo-controlled, exploratory trial of chromium picolinate in atypical depression: effect on carbohydrate craving. J Psychiatr Pract. 2005 Sep;11(5):302-14.
21. Basch E, Gabardi S, Ulbricht C. Bitter melon (Momordica charantia): a review of efficacy and safety. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 2003 Feb;60(4):356-9.
22. Miura T, Itoh Y, Iwamoto N, Kato M, Ishida T. Suppressive activity of the fruit of Momordica charantia with exercise on blood glucose in type 2 diabetic mice. Biol Pharm Bull. 2004;27(2):248-50.
23. Yeh GY, Eisenberg DM, Kaptchuk TJ, Phillips RS. Systematic review of herbs and dietary supplements for glycemic control in diabetes. Diabetes Care. 2003 Apr;26(4):1277-94.
24. Baskaran K, Kizar Ahamath B, Radha Shanmugasundaram K, Shanmugasundaram ER. Antidiabetic effect of a leaf extract from Gymnema sylvestre in non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus patients. J Ethnopharmacol. 1990 Oct;30(3):295-300.
25. Preuss HG, Bagchi D, Bagchi M, Rao CV, Dey DK, Satyanarayana S. Effects of a natural extract of (-)-hydroxycitric acid (HCA-SX) and a combination of HCA-SX plus niacin-bound chromium and Gymnema sylvestre extract on weight loss. Diabetes Obes Metab. 2004 May;6(3):171-80.
26. Gupta A, Gupta R, Lal B. Effect of Trigonella foenum-graecum (fenugreek) seeds on glycaemic control and insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes mellitus: a double blind placebo controlled study. J Assoc Physicians India. 2001 Nov;49:1057-61.
27. Sharma RD, Raghuram TC, Rao NS. Effect of fenugreek seeds on blood glucose and serum lipids in type I diabetes. Eur J Clin Nutr. 1990 Apr;44(4):301-6.
28. Scharrer A, Ober M. Anthocyanosides in the treatment of retinopathies. Klin Monatsbl Augenheikld Beih. 1981;178:386–9.
29. Cicero AF, Derosa G, Gaddi A. What do herbalists suggest to diabetic patients in order to improve glycemic control? Evaluation of scientific evidence and potential risks. Acta Diabetol. 2004 Sep;41(3):91-8.
30. Jung UJ, Lee MK, Park YB, Kange MA, Choi MS. Effect of citrus flavonoids on lipid metabolism and glucose-regulating enzyme mRNA levels in type-2 diabetic mics. Int J Biochem Cell Biol. 2006;38(7):1134-45.
31. Boden G, Chen X, Ruiz J, et al. Effects of vanadyl sulfate on carbohydrate and lipid metabolism in patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. Metabolism. 1996;45:1130–5.

Ingredients

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