Johna’s nutrition philosophy is MVP for moderation, variety and patterns. She not only believes in the nutrition of food but also in the joy it can bring and the way it connects and builds bridges across the table. Keeping blood sugar balanced is important for maintaining energy and keeping other systems in our body running properly. The higher your A1C level is, the poorer your blood sugar control and the higher your risk of diabetes complications. For example, they may order a fasting blood glucose test or another A1C test.
Hence, it is important to purchase reputable brands and read the label carefully to ensure you are not allergic to any of the ingredients. Consult your doctor or nutritionist about known supplement brands to purchase. Though herbal remedies are often thought to be safe because they are natural, they are also potent medications and can cause serious side effects.
Gymnema, also known as gurmar, is an herb that grows in the tropical regions of India and Africa. An open-label study conducted in 58 patients with type 2 diabetes investigated the effects of gymnema leaf extract 250 mg twice daily for 3 months compared with placebo. Individuals given the extract showed statistically significant improvements in FBG by 26 mg/dL and A1C by 1% (41). In another trial, administration of gymnema extract 500 mg twice daily for 60 days resulted in a decrease in mean FPG and PPG by 43 and 55 mg/dL, respectively (42).
The measurement shows your blood sugar level at the time you do the test. Therefore, there is some variability throughout the day based on eating, exercise, stress and other factors. The A1C test measures the average amount of glucose that’s been attached to hemoglobin over time. Because the A1C test measures glucose levels over a period of time, it provides more information about blood sugar than a single blood sugar test.
Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are essential for assessing safety and efficacy of therapeutic interventions. However, there are a limited number of RCTs for supplements, and conclusions are often derived from studies of weak quality. For many dietary supplements, data are lacking on important information such as mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetics, and potential toxicity.
People taking medications for diabetes should also talk to a doctor before taking cinnamon supplements to avoid adverse side effects. Postprandial blood sugar refers to your blood sugar level after eating. Blood sugar levels can increase quite a bit after you eat, depending on the size of the meal and how many carbs it contains (17). Cinnamon may help lower blood sugar and fight diabetes by imitating the effects of insulin and increasing the movement of sugar from the bloodstream into cells (10). In fact, one study in 84 people with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) found that taking 1,500 milligrams (mg) of cinnamon daily led to a significant increase in antioxidant blood levels after 8 weeks (6). This article tells you everything you need to know about cinnamon and its effects on blood sugar management and diabetes.
However, supplements have the potential to cause adverse effects, drug interactions, and toxicity. Additionally, lack of regulatory oversight in the manufacturing and marketing of supplements can lead to inconsistent quality and quantity of ingredients within products. Talk to your health care provider if you’re considering dietary supplements or other alternative therapies to treat or prevent prediabetes. Some supplements or alternative therapies might be harmful if combined with certain prescription medications. Your health care provider can help you weigh the pros and cons of specific alternative therapies.
If you are looking to improve your A1C levels, incorporating supplements into your daily routine can be a great way to support your efforts. Whether you have diabetes or simply want to keep your blood sugar levels in check, certain supplements can help promote healthy A1C levels and overall well-being.
Key Supplements for A1C
1. Alpha-Lipoic Acid
Alpha-lipoic acid is a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation in the body. This can lead to better blood sugar control and lower A1C levels over time.
2. Chromium
Chromium is a mineral that plays a key role in regulating blood sugar levels. By supplementing with chromium, you may be able to enhance insulin sensitivity and improve glucose metabolism, ultimately leading to lower A1C levels.
3. Cinnamon
Cinnamon has been found to have anti-diabetic effects, helping to lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. Adding a cinnamon supplement to your daily routine may contribute to better A1C control.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can supplements alone lower my A1C levels?
- While supplements can be beneficial in supporting healthy blood sugar levels, they are most effective when combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise.
- Are there any side effects of taking these supplements?
- It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you are taking medications or have underlying health conditions.
By incorporating these key supplements into your daily routine and making healthy lifestyle choices, you can work towards improving your A1C levels and overall health. Remember to always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your individual needs.
