Antacids are commonly used drugs that neutralize stomach acidity and provide relief from heartburn, indigestion, and upset stomach.
A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Maryland suggests that antacids can also have a positive impact on blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes, a condition that affects nearly 10 percent of the global population.
While lifestyle changes, medications, and insulin are typically recommended for managing diabetes, the study highlights the potential benefits of incorporating antacids into standard care.
The Effects of Antacids on Blood Sugar Levels
The University of Maryland researchers analyzed seven clinical trials involving 342 participants to investigate the effects of antacids on blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
The findings revealed that adding antacids to standard therapy resulted in better outcomes, including reduced hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels and fasting blood sugar.
Antacids were shown to lower HbA1c levels by 0.36% and fasting blood sugar by 10 mg/dl in individuals with diabetes.
Limited Impact on Diabetes Risk
Although antacids showed promise in improving blood sugar control in people with diabetes, the researchers discovered that these medications did not significantly affect the risk of developing diabetes in individuals without the condition.
Five studies involving 244,439 participants indicated that antacids had no substantial impact on reducing the risk of diabetes among non-diabetic individuals.
Implications for People with Diabetes
The study suggests that people with diabetes should be aware of the glucose-lowering effect associated with commonly used antacid medications.
Healthcare providers should consider this effect when prescribing antacids to their patients as part of their diabetes management plan.
Incorporating antacids as an add-on to standard care can potentially contribute to better blood sugar control and improved outcomes.
Tips for Lowering Blood Sugar Levels in Diabetes
If you have diabetes, there are various strategies to help manage and lower blood sugar levels. Here are some practical tips:
Follow a healthy diet: Emphasize lean proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates, while limiting processed and sugary foods.
Engage in regular exercise: Participate in at least 30 minutes of exercise on most days of the week to improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels.
Take prescribed medication as directed: Adhere to your healthcare provider’s prescribed medication regimen to effectively manage your diabetes.
Monitor blood sugar regularly: Regularly check your blood sugar levels to keep track of your progress and make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
Manage stress: Find healthy ways to cope with stress, such as engaging in exercise, practicing meditation, or deep breathing exercises, as stress can raise blood sugar levels.
Prioritize sufficient sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night to help maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Collaborate with your healthcare provider: Work closely with your healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and goals.
Conclusion
This recent study conducted by the University of Maryland highlights the potential benefits of antacids in improving blood sugar control in individuals with diabetes.
Although further research is necessary, healthcare providers should consider incorporating antacids into the treatment plans of patients with diabetes to potentially enhance blood sugar management.
Combined with lifestyle changes, medications, and regular monitoring, antacids may play a role in helping individuals with diabetes maintain optimal blood sugar levels and overall well-being.
If you care about diabetes, please read studies that green tea could help reduce death risk in diabetes, and how animal-based foods influence risk of type 2 diabetes.
For more information about diabetes, please see recent studies about how to protect your kidney health if you have diabetes, and results showing Vitamin supplements may increase fall risk in people with diabetes.
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