Are multivitamins part of diabetes management plan?
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EmailTake a quiz to find out if you should take one
Many of us think we eat pretty healthy, but according to national data, Michigan adults do not eat enough fruits and vegetables a day. This means we are missing out on a lot of the nutrients found in these foods. So what happens when we do not eat the right amount of fiber, vitamins and minerals our bodies need? When we do not eat a well-balanced diet, we can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke and some cancers. These risks are higher for people with diabetes. The Dining with Diabetes program offered through Michigan State University Extension has a quiz you can take to see if you need a multivitamin to replace some of the vitamins, minerals and fiber your body needs.
How do you know if you should take a multivitamin? Answer “yes” or “no” to the following statements:
- I eat 6 servings of grains every day.
- I eat 2 servings of fruit every day.
- I eat 3 servings of vegetables every day.
- I eat 3 servings of dairy every day.
- I eat 2-3 servings of meat, fish, poultry, nuts or beans every day.
- I eat 3 meals a day.
- I eat a wide variety of foods every day.
If you answered “no” to one or more of these statements you might need to take a multivitamin. Taking a multivitamin does not replace a healthy diet, and it is best to get the vitamins, minerals and fiber your body needs from the foods you eat. Check with your doctor before you start taking a multivitamin, especially if you have a chronic condition such as diabetes.
Managing diabetes is a balancing act. Your medications need to be carefully matched with food and exercise to prevent blood sugar that is too low or too high. Your family doctor, certified diabetes educator, registered dietitian and pharmacist all work together to keep you healthy. But, you have to do your part by balancing your diet with exercise and your medication. One way to do this is to keep a list of all the medications you are taking—even an over-the-counter multivitamin—and share the list with your doctor.
Would you still like more information on how to manage your diabetes? Michigan State University Extension offers diabetes workshops throughout Michigan. Find your county on the drop down list under Events. You can also find an expert in your area by visiting people.msue.msu.edu, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464).
To contact an expert in your area, visit people.msue.msu.edu, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464).
