Garlic is a popular component of traditional remedies for diabetes and a wide variety of other conditions. The compounds in garlic may help lower blood sugar by improving insulin sensitivity and secretion. Supplements always risk contamination, so it is important to choose those that have been third-party tested when possible. Fiber supplements can be contaminated with heavy metals, and fish oil supplements can go rancid, which means the beneficial effects go down. This can result in an unpleasant taste and can reduce safety and efficacy. In addition to opting for a supplement that has been third-party tested, always follow the manufacturer’s tips for storage and expiration date.
Keeping blood sugar balanced is important for maintaining energy and keeping other systems in our body running properly. Because supplements aren’t regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, you don’t know the purity or exact content of them. Your best bet to stay healthy is to follow your diabetes food plan, get regular exercise and take your medication faithfully. In a small study in Diabetes Care, 30 people with type 2 diabetes were split into three groups taking 1 gram, 3 grams or 6 grams of cinnamon supplements daily. Cinnamon, a spice made from tree bark, is often touted for its potential medicinal properties. People have tried cinnamon to reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol and fight bacteria.
When you take steps to get your A1c in a healthy range, you lower your risk of complications such as nerve damage, eye problems, and heart disease. Flaxseed has been studied at a dose of 10–60 g orally per day for up to 48 weeks (32). Whole flaxseed has been shown to reduce insulin resistance and improve insulin sensitivity, resulting in an average blood glucose reduction of 6 mg/dL with no change in A1C (33). Its effects seem to be greatest with consumption of whole flaxseed rather than flaxseed oil.
For those looking to manage their blood sugar levels, finding the right supplements can be a game-changer. One of the key indicators of long-term blood sugar control is the A1C level. So, what supplements can help lower A1C?
Cinnamon
Cinnamon has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce fasting blood sugar levels. Adding cinnamon to your daily routine can help lower your A1C over time.
Chromium
Chromium is another supplement that can aid in lowering A1C levels. This essential mineral plays a crucial role in glucose metabolism and can improve insulin sensitivity.
When choosing a supplement, look for third-party tested products and consult a healthcare provider, an RD or RDN, or a pharmacist. If you have diabetes or are trying to prevent it, it’s important to discuss the use of any supplement with your healthcare provider in order to optimize your health goals. Berberine is an herb used in traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic medicine (the ancient medicine system of India) to help lower blood sugar and cholesterol in people with type 2 diabetes. At normal doses, alpha-lipoic acid is considered safe, even for people with heart disease, diabetes, and neurological conditions.
Because carbohydrates break down into sugar, they have the greatest effect on your blood sugar level. To help control your blood sugar, you may need to learn to figure out the amount of carbohydrates you are eating with the help of a dietitian. It’s important to keep track of the amount of carbohydrates in each meal or snack.
Here are a few tactics to try, in addition to taking any medications your doctor prescribes. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Remember that you may experience different results than what studies have found based on factors such as duration, supplement quality, and your individual diabetes status. Vitamin D may trigger mild to moderate reactions with several types of medications, so ask your doctor or pharmacist for guidance. Vitamin D deficiency is considered a potential risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Mouse studies indicate that aloe may stimulate insulin production in pancreatic cells, but this hasn’t been confirmed.
Alpha-Lipoic Acid
Other small studies have found that cinnamon can lower levels of glucose, cholesterol and triglycerides (fat in the blood). 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. Physicians may also refer to average glucose, or eAG, when they talk about A1C levels.
Alpha-lipoic acid is a powerful antioxidant that can help lower blood sugar levels and reduce A1C. It works by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing inflammation in the body.
Magnesium
Magnesium is essential for glucose metabolism and insulin function. Supplementing with magnesium can help lower A1C levels and improve overall blood sugar control.
Berberine
Berberine is a plant compound that has been shown to lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. Taking berberine supplements can help lower A1C and improve diabetes management.
When it comes to managing blood sugar levels and lowering A1C, incorporating these supplements into your routine can make a significant difference. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen to ensure safety and effectiveness.
