In a nutshell
The study investigated whether taking an ascorbic acid (vitamin C) supplement can improve blood sugar control and blood pressure in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). The study found that vitamin C supplementation decreased blood sugar levels and lowered blood pressure in these patients.
Some background
Ascorbic acid (AA) is also known a vitamin C. It is an antioxidant. An antioxidant is a substance that removes potentially damaging substances called oxidizing agents in the body. It is thought that these damaging oxidizing agents are one of the causes of T2D and its complications. Some studies have shown that AA supplementation improves HbA1c (blood test measuring long-term blood sugar control) and fasting blood sugar levels. However, some studies have not shown any significant difference with AA supplementation. The effect of AA supplementation on after-meal blood sugar levels and blood pressure in patients with T2D is not known.
Methods & findings
This study included 27 patients with T2D. Patients were randomly selected to receive either a capsule containing 500mg AA or a placebo capsule (a drug that has no effect on the body) twice daily for 4 months. Patients' blood glucose levels were continuously monitored.
The patients treated with the AA supplement had a 36% lower after-meal blood glucose levels compared to those who received the placebo. The AA-treated group spent less time during the day with high blood glucose levels compared to the placebo treated group. They also had a decreased average 24-hour blood glucose level and a decrease in blood pressure. However, there was no significant change in HbA1c. There were 50% less patients with high blood pressure in the AA-treated group than the placebo group after 4 months of treatment.
The bottom line
The study found that taking a 500mg vitamin C supplement twice a day decreased blood sugar levels and lowered blood pressure in patients with type 2 diabetes.
The fine print
This study was very small and had mostly males. Larger studies are needed for more conclusive results. Although no serious side effects were reported, safety studies should be carried out.
What’s next?
Consult with your doctor about increasing your dietary intake of vitamin C into a well-balanced diet.
Published By :
Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism
Date :
Nov 04, 2018
