Probiotics are living microorganisms found in yogurt, fermented foods, and supplements, that have multiple potential health benefits. A study found that probiotics may lower fasting blood sugar and hemoglobin A1c (a measure of blood sugar control), and improve insulin sensitivity. Aiming for even small amounts of weight loss (5 to 10 percent of your body weight) can make a big difference in your blood sugar management. In a study of 5,145 people with type 2 diabetes, those who lost 5 to 10 percent of their weight were three times more likely to lower their A1c by a clinically significant 0.5 percent. Stay on top of your blood sugar levels and consult your healthcare provider if you worry your glucose levels are too low. This might impact the recommended dosage of either gymnema or insulin.
If you are looking to lower your A1C levels, supplements can be a helpful addition to your treatment plan. While they should not replace medication or lifestyle changes recommended by your healthcare provider, supplements can complement these efforts and help improve your overall blood sugar control.
1. Berberine
Prediabetes doesn’t always cause symptoms, although some people develop darkening of the skin around the armpits, neck, and elbows. Insufficient iron in your diet can lead to iron deficiency anemia, a condition characterized by symptoms like weakness, fatigue, paler skin than usual, and shortness of breath. Injecting your insulin directly into a muscle can help your body absorb it more quickly. However, it’s also more likely to lead to hypoglycemia, which may become severe. Avoid fried fish and fish with high levels of mercury, such as cod. Lifestyle measures can be very effective at lowering your A1c, with or without medication.
This article takes a look at what the current research says about 13 “anti-diabetes” supplements sold online and in drugstores in the United States. My A1c number doesn’t reflect what’s been going on in my life for the last 3 months. It doesn’t tell me how much effort I’ve put into managing my diabetes and it does not define me as a person. I’ve been living with type 1 diabetes for over 20 years, and my A1c is not something I think about in my daily life. For example, we generally aim for very tight A1c levels during pregnancy and more conservative targets in young children and the elderly.
She is a fellow of the American College of Cardiology and holds board certifications from the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology and the National Board of Echocardiography. She completed undergraduate studies at the University of Virginia with a B.S. In Biology, medical school at Jefferson Medical College, and internal medicine residency and cardiovascular diseases fellowship at the George Washington University Hospital. Her professional interests include preventive cardiology, medical journalism, and health policy.
Berberine is a natural compound found in plants like goldenseal and barberry. Studies have shown that berberine can help lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. Taking berberine supplements may help reduce your A1C levels over time when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise.
However, never stop or alter your dosage unless advised by your doctor. When you eat anything that has sugar, it starts to move through your digestive system so the nutrients can enter your bloodstream. Sugar in food binds to a protein called hemoglobin in your red blood cells. It results in varying amounts of sugar-coated hemoglobin that are present in the veins and arteries.
2. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a popular spice that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. Some studies suggest that cinnamon may help improve blood sugar control and lower A1C levels. You can take cinnamon supplements or simply add more cinnamon to your diet by sprinkling it on foods like oatmeal or yogurt.
3. Alpha-Lipoic Acid
Alpha-lipoic acid is an antioxidant that plays a role in energy production and glucose metabolism. Research has shown that alpha-lipoic acid supplements may help lower A1C levels and improve insulin sensitivity in people with diabetes. Talk to your doctor before adding alpha-lipoic acid to your supplement regimen.
4. Chromium
Chromium is a mineral that plays a key role in insulin function and glucose metabolism. Some studies suggest that chromium supplements may help lower blood sugar levels and improve A1C levels in people with diabetes. Consider adding chromium-rich foods like broccoli, oats, and barley to your diet, or talk to your doctor about taking chromium supplements.
Remember that while supplements can be helpful in lowering A1C levels, they should be used in conjunction with other treatment strategies recommended by your healthcare provider. It is important to monitor your blood sugar levels regularly and discuss any changes in your treatment plan with your doctor.
