Antacids are common medications used to relieve heartburn, indigestion, or an upset stomach by neutralizing stomach acid. However, a new study suggests they may also help people with type 2 diabetes better manage their blood sugar levels.
Type 2 diabetes, a condition affecting nearly 10% of the global population, makes it challenging for the body to regulate blood sugar. Doctors typically recommend a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, or insulin therapy to help control blood sugar levels.
Now, researchers at the University of Maryland have found that adding antacids to standard diabetes treatments can lead to further improvements in blood sugar control.
The study analyzed data from seven clinical trials involving 342 participants with diabetes. It found that people who took antacids alongside their regular diabetes treatments experienced significant reductions in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), a key marker of long-term blood sugar control.
On average, HbA1c levels dropped by 0.36%, and fasting blood sugar levels decreased by 10 mg/dL. These findings suggest that antacids could serve as a useful addition to diabetes care.
However, the study also examined whether antacids could prevent diabetes in people without the disease. Analyzing five studies involving over 244,000 participants, the researchers found no evidence that antacids reduce the risk of developing diabetes.
This suggests that the glucose-lowering effects of antacids are specific to individuals who already have diabetes.
The researchers highlight the importance of understanding how antacids might impact blood sugar levels. People with diabetes should be aware of this potential benefit, and healthcare providers may want to consider these effects when prescribing antacids.
Tips for Lowering Blood Sugar
For those managing diabetes, controlling blood sugar is essential for maintaining health and preventing complications. Here are some practical strategies:
- Eat a Healthy Diet
Focus on whole, unprocessed foods, including lean proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates like whole grains and vegetables. Limit sugary and processed foods to avoid blood sugar spikes. - Stay Active
Regular physical activity improves insulin sensitivity and helps lower blood sugar. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, such as walking, swimming, or cycling, most days of the week. - Take Medications as Prescribed
Follow your doctor’s instructions for diabetes medications, including insulin or other prescribed treatments. - Monitor Blood Sugar Levels
Checking your blood sugar regularly helps you understand how different foods, activities, and medications affect your levels and allows for timely adjustments. - Manage Stress
Stress can raise blood sugar levels. Practices like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can help keep stress—and your blood sugar—under control. - Prioritize Sleep
Poor sleep can disrupt blood sugar regulation. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night to support overall health. - Work with Your Healthcare Team
A personalized treatment plan developed with your doctor can make it easier to manage your blood sugar effectively.
Future Implications
While the study highlights the potential for antacids to enhance blood sugar control in people with diabetes, further research is needed to understand how these medications produce this effect.
Researchers are particularly interested in exploring whether the gut plays a role in the interaction between antacids and blood sugar levels.
This research, led by Dr. Carol Chiung-Hui Peng and published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, opens the door to new approaches for managing type 2 diabetes.
Although antacids are not a standalone treatment, their potential as part of a broader diabetes care plan is promising.
If you care about diabetes, please read studies about Vitamin D and type 2 diabetes, and what you need to know about avocado and type 2 diabetes.
For more information about diabetes, please see recent studies about how to eat to prevent type 2 diabetes, and 5 vitamins that may prevent complication in diabetes.
Copyright © 2024 Knowridge Science Report. All rights reserved.
