By Harram Kishwar Department of Nutritional Science GCUF Faisalabad
Non Communicable Diseases (NCDs) are the diseases that do not spread through infection or through other people, but are typically caused by unhealthy behaviors and unhealthy lifestyles. There are many types of NCDs such as Diabetes, Hypertension, Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs), Obesity and many more but these are the most prevailing death-causing diseases in the world.
Dietary Supplements in Diabetes Chromium, AlphaLipoic Acid and Vitamin D are some of the supplements which diabetics can consider to elevate symptoms and manage blood sugar levels. Chromium helps body utilize blood glucose levels. A research suggested that taking doses of chromium upto 1000mcg is helpful for diabetes. AlphaLipoic Acid (ALA) reduces pain from diabetic neuropathy, triggers anti-oxidant defense and enhance cellular glucose uptake. Vitamin D increases Insulin secretion and Improves insulin sensitivity. This vitamin also reduces the chances or risks of Type-1 Diabetes.
Dietary Supplements for Hypertension
Magnesium, Potassium, Vitamin D, Vitamin C, Folic Acid, Fish oils and Omega-3 fatty acids which are found in many foods for example; Beans, Spinach, Nuts, Avocado, Dark Chocolate, Yoghurt. These important nutrients are also present in the form of supplements being offered by many Nutraceuticals companies.
Dietary Supplements for Obesity
B vitamins, Vitamin D, Iron, Magnesium and caffeine are good supplements in managing obesity as they not only manage weight of an individual but also increase one’s metabolic system which ultimately boosts losing weight by the body.
Dietary Supplements for CVDs
Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Folic Acid, Fish oils, Vitamin D and Vitamin C are the same supplements which are not only good for hypertension but are also good for managing CVDs by strengthening the walls of arteries and veins. The elasticity of arteries and veins are important for keeping blood pressure normal and preventing from hypertension and other heart issues.