How Can I Lower the Amount of Insulin I Need?

I'm a diabetic and must take insulin. I realize that the excess (or unregulated) insulin I must use will probably bring on problems like atherosclerosis and vision loss over time. So, I’ve asked my doctor to help me try to reduce my need for insulin by using nutritional supplements (zinc picolinate, selenium, B-vitamins, and evening primrose oil). The strategy seems to be working, but I would like to use even less insulin. Do you have any other possible suggestions?

There is one more thing that seems to be particularly effective. But before I tell you about it, I have to say that I don’t recommend anyone try to decrease their need for insulin without their doctor’s approval and guidance. Any such attempt requires proficiency and responsible monitoring of blood sugar. If you don't monitor your blood sugar regularly, you could end up taking too much insulin and go into insulin shock!

Having said that, here is something you can discuss with your doctor.

In about half of diabetic patients, green extracts of barley can help lower insulin requirements. In fact, I have seen insulin requirements drop by as much as 60 percent (some doctors have reported drops as high as 75 percent). The explanation of why this works is somewhat detailed so I’ll try to simplify it as much as possible.

Essentially, insulin needs chromium to work. People with diabetes tend to accumulate excess iron in their bodies, and iron tends to displace and deplete chromium reserves. The barley extract is rich in chlorophyll, which snatches up this excess iron, thereby allowing more chromium to become available.

There are several green barley extracts on the market. Two popular ones are Kyo-Green and Green Magma. 

Rather than give specific amounts to take every day, it is best in this situation for your doctor to work out the program for you.

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