Alpha-lipoic acid, hailed as a diabetes combatant and antioxidant, is still in trial stages. It's generally safe but might leave you with a nasty headache or turning green. Still, you probably won't keel over unless you're expecting a bun in the oven.

Next up is cinnamon, the sprinkle-your-oatmeal-with type, which has been found to decrease blood sugar, insulin resistance, and even cholesterol. Just watch your levels, and remember, not all cinnamon is created equally. Watch out for cassia cinnamon, as too much coumarin may cause liver toxicity and cancer. Have no fear though, Ceylon or Sri Lankan Cinnamon is here to save the day.

Magnesium shows promise in improving insulin sensitivity and warding off diabetes. But don't mistake magnesium-rich cereals for a dietary free pass. Be wise and keep your doses to 350 milligrams daily.

Chromium might help the insulin junkies, but you're playing a dangerous game if you're already on insulin or metformin. One minute you're on a sugar high, the next, you're dealing with a headache, fast heart rate, and possible kidney failure.

Zinc appears to offer significant protection against type 2 diabetes, especially for the rural folk.

If sun-exposure is your nemesis, might we suggest a Vitamin D supplement for potential prevention of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes? Just be warned that kidney stones might be an uninvited guest if you go overboard.

Omega-3 fatty acids could help lessen your sugar levels but avoid trying to down gallons of it. High levels can cause heart-related issues, not to mention bad breath, optional heartburn, and nausea.

Berberine can help you wrestle your blood sugar levels into submission but don't even think about it if you're expecting or nursing a little one.

Probiotics might do wonders for your digestion and surprisingly, your glucose levels as well.

The trials for aloe vera supplements and gymnema are still in the early stages but, who knows? They might turn out to be the dark horses in the supplement race.

In the end, remember to chat with your healthcare provider before you join hands with these potential allies against diabetes. You wouldn't want to find yourself in a med-and-supplement tug of war, would you?