Advice for diabetics

Many diabetic patients should take a tablet of aspirin daily.

Experts have advised that a diabetic adult who is obese, smokes, has a family history of heart disease, has high blood pressure, or high bad cholesterol should take one coated aspirin tablet a day.

It has been shown that patients with diabetes are two to four times more likely to die of heart disease than the general population.

Studies have also shown that high blood sugar can damage nerves which will cause pain and numbness in the hands and feet.

Alpha-lipoic acid which is found in small amounts in potatoes, red meat and spinach is now available in tablet form. Intake of alpha-lipoic acid may promote blood flow to the nerves to help repair their damage.

However, before taking aspirin and alpha-lipoic acid, it is advised that diabetic patients first consult and obtain medical clearance from their doctors.