Managing blood sugar levels is essential for diabetics. Most diabetics do this by following a diabetic-friendly diet or taking medications.
However, there’s a third option. There are some science-backed supplements that can help with diabetes. The most common way that supplements can help is by lowering blood sugar.
Best Supplements to Lower Your Blood Sugar
Want to find out how to lower blood sugar? Take a look at these diabetes supplements that can help you manage your glucose levels:
1. American Ginseng
Ginseng is used in a variety of energy supplements, and it could also help lower blood sugar for type 2 diabetics. According to one study, this supplement decreased post-meal blood sugar levels by 20% in both healthy individuals and diabetics.
Keep in mind, though, that this supplement may interact with certain drugs, like warfarin.
2. Cinnamon
You may think of cinnamon as a delicious spice for your favorite dessert, but it also has a number of medicinal uses. According to experts, using this supplement can improve the way your body’s cells respond to insulin, which results in lower blood sugar levels.
3. Aloe Vera
This plant may be a popular way to soothe skin irritations, but it can also help people with prediabetes and diabetes. Research shows that it can help control blood sugar spikes, but scientists still need to conduct more thorough research.
4. Probiotics
Adding good bacteria via probiotics can help you decrease blood sugar levels. It may reduce inflammation and stop the destruction of pancreatic cells.
5. Vitamin D
A deficiency in this vitamin is a common risk amongst those with type 2 diabetes. Taking the appropriate supplements may help lower that risk. It may also improve the way your pancreas functions, as well as the body’s responses to insulin.
6. Alpha-Lipoic Acid
This next supplement is a vitamin-like compound found in certain foods, such as red meat and spinach. One study revealed that taking alpha-lipoic acid (or ALA) along with the usual diabetes treatment for six months can decrease fasting blood sugar and A1C.
7. Magnesium
Your body uses magnesium for normal insulin secretion. Deficiencies are common with type 2 diabetics and people with prediabetes, and taking these supplements can help with fasting blood sugar levels.
8. Gymnema
Unless you’re familiar with the Indian tradition of Ayurvedic medicine, you may not have heard of this herb before. It’s a diabetic supplement that has multiple applications like:
- decreasing fasting blood sugar levels
- lower A1C in type 1 diabetics
- reducing sugar cravings
Scientists will need to conduct more research, but initial findings look promising.
One Last Thought About Supplements
Taking supplements to lower blood sugar may be a viable option for you. But some of these interact with medications, so it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor before trying one out.
Supplements may help you lower blood sugar fast, but the results are not immediate. There’s no magic pill that substitutes a good diet, regular exercise, and prescribed medication. However, taking these supplements on a regular basis can help yield results in as little as a few weeks.
