Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Particularly where eating patterns and exercise are concerned, slow, steady progress tends to deliver the best long-term results. The best way to make something second nature is to keep doing it consistently. Increasing your activity level can help get your A1C level down for good. It’s important to be practical because a slow, steady approach to weight loss (a pound or two a week, at most) tends to get the best results when it comes to keeping weight off. You can apply the same proportions and ideas behind the plate method to foods that don’t lend themselves to being divided across a plate, like sandwiches, for instance.
Put the guideline into practice by using the MyPlate style of eating—fill up half your plate with fruits and vegetables, a quarter with whole grains, and a quarter with healthy proteins. For those with diabetes and prediabetes, it’s important to stay hydrated. Dehydration causes the blood to be concentrated, which raises blood glucose concentration. This article will discuss 12 ways to lower blood sugar naturally, many of which also have benefits on overall health.
Managing blood sugar levels is crucial for individuals with diabetes or those at risk for developing the condition. One important marker to monitor is the A1c level, which provides an average of blood sugar levels over a period of time. If you are looking for natural ways to lower your A1c levels, supplements can be a helpful addition to your regimen.
Schedule an appointment with your primary care physician or endocrinologist to have your blood glucose levels checked with a hemoglobin A1C test. This will determine your average blood glucose levels for approximately the last three months to gauge whether your diabetes is under control. Discuss a complete treatment plan with your doctor involving prescription medications, nutrition, exercise and herbal supplements. It is best to try new herbal supplements one at a time to ensure that you do not have any adverse reactions. Once you have tried them for several weeks to months, it is safe to take supplements such as garlic, cinnamon and bitter melon together or in combined forms.
Other products marketed for diabetes commonly contain a combination of multiple supplements. It is proposed that this promotes β-cell repair and regeneration, protects β-cells from oxidative stress, and increases C-peptide levels (48). As mentioned previously, these supplements are potentially safe but currently have insufficient reliable evidence in people with diabetes (13–15,41,42). One meta-analysis showed that supplementation with probiotics significantly reduces glucose levels and improves insulin resistance (49). However, more RCTs with larger sample sizes and consistency with regard to product ingredients are needed to confirm these findings.
People with more advanced diabetes will have higher A1C targets than healthy adults without diabetes. Factors such as life expectancy, treatment response, and medical history also have an impact. You may be able to lower your A1C level by eating a nutritious diet with controlled portion sizes and getting regular exercise.
Tap water, mineral water, and bottled water are also sources of magnesium, although magnesium levels can vary, depending on the water source. The recommended daily amount of magnesium for adult females is 320 mg to 360 mg, and 410 mg to 420 mg for adult males, according to the NIH. If you have a deficiency, talk to your doctor to see if supplementation is right for you. Different types are better for certain ailments and have different absorption rates.
Chromium
Chromium is a mineral that plays a role in regulating blood sugar levels. Studies have shown that chromium supplementation can improve glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity, leading to lower A1c levels. Taking a chromium supplement can be beneficial for individuals looking to manage their blood sugar more effectively.
Alpha-Lipoic Acid
Alpha-lipoic acid is a powerful antioxidant that has been found to reduce inflammation and improve insulin sensitivity. By taking alpha-lipoic acid supplements, individuals may experience lower A1c levels as a result of improved glucose uptake and utilization by cells.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a popular spice that has been shown to have positive effects on blood sugar levels. Supplementing with cinnamon can help lower A1c levels by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing fasting blood sugar levels. Adding cinnamon to your daily routine can be a simple yet effective way to support healthy blood sugar management.
Conclusion
When it comes to managing blood sugar levels and lowering A1c levels, incorporating supplements into your routine can be a beneficial strategy. Chromium, alpha-lipoic acid, and cinnamon are just a few examples of supplements that have been shown to support healthy blood sugar levels. Consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your individual needs.
