Beneficial bacteria live in the human gut, and scientists are beginning to explore their potential use to help manage type 2 diabetes. These bacteria are known as probiotics and are given as supplements for a variety of conditions.

In May 2017, the Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism reported on a study that pooled the results of eighteen previous studies and analyzed them as one big piece of work. A total of 1056 participants were included,…

• 527 taking probiotics, and
• 529 not using probiotics.

Study participants who took the probiotics showed a reduction…

• blood sugar readings,
• insulin and
• HbA1c levels.

From these results, the researchers concluded that probiotics might be helpful in lowering blood sugar levels, insulin levels, and HbA1c levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

The following month the Journal of Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders reported on a study completed at Yazd Medical University and several other research facilities in Iran. Seventy people diagnosed with type 2 diabetes were divided into a treatment group and a placebo group…

1. The treatment group I was taking 500mg a day of supplements containing…

• “good” bacteria
• two types of sugar, and
• B vitamins.

The bacteria were members of the Lactobacillus family, the Bifidobacterium family, and Streptococcus thermophilus.

2. The placebo group took capsules containing starch and B vitamins. After nine weeks, the placebo group had more albumin in their urine and higher HbA1c levels than the supplemented group. Albumin in the urine is a sign of kidney disease. From this information, it was concluded that 500 mg per day of probiotic supplementation over a nine-week period could improve blood sugar control and kidney health.

Tea lactobacillus family of bacteria gets its name from the fact that it can break down lactose, a sugar found in cow’s milk. Lactobacillus acidophilus produces vitamin K. Some patients use it to treat their…

• lactose intolerance,
• Diarrhea,
• vaginal infection,
• Irritable colon,
• brain problem,
• asthma
• high cholesterol,

although the evidence of its efficacy is incomplete.

Tea bifidobacteria family many think it is useful with…

• irritable bowel syndrome,
• ulcerative colitis and
• ileal pouch (takes out of the small intestine).

It is also used to promote vaginal health.

Streptococcus thermophile It is used to stimulate the human immune system and support colon health. It is believed to possibly prevent colon cancer. It is sometimes used with chemotherapy to help protect the digestive system from treatment. It is also used to replace the good bacteria killed by antibiotics.