As the rate of diabetes continues to rise globally, the search for effective and natural solutions has become paramount. In a world inundated with pharmaceutical options, many individuals are turning towards the power of nature to manage their diabetic symptoms. Natural diabetic supplements offer a promising avenue for those seeking alternative therapies that support their overall health and well-being.
From ancient herbal remedies to modern scientific breakthroughs, the realm of natural diabetic supplements is as vast as it is intriguing. Imagine harnessing the healing properties of plants and minerals that have been used for centuries in traditional medicine practices, all aimed at helping you take control of your blood sugar levels in a more holistic way. Join us on a journey through the fascinating world of natural diabetic supplements, where ancient wisdom meets cutting-edge research to provide you with innovative tools to navigate your diabetic journey with confidence and vitality.
Diabetes Supplement Popularity
Ever wonder why diabetes supplements have skyrocketed in popularity?
Diabetes is on the rise, affecting more than 11% of the U.S. population alone. That’s more than 37 million people. Another 97 million people in the U.S. are estimated to have pre-diabetes. They have high blood sugar and are at high risk for full-blown diabetes and other diseases.
Diabetes Supplements – Why Try Them?
In a minute we’ll look at the Top 7 Diabetes Supplements, but first let’s look at the top reasons why they’ve become so popular:
1. Taking charge of your own health
One of the biggest reasons people turn to diabetes supplements is all about taking charge of their own health. It's like having a whole toolbox where you can pick and choose what suits you best. This DIY approach to health gives desperate people a sense of independence and control.
2. Defense against corporate greed and lack of accountability
The second reason is that people don’t believe the pharmaceutical industry has our best interests at heart. The big drug companies are seen as being hyper focused on making as much money as possible from each of their customers, for as long as they live.
People don't believe the pharmaceutical industry is their friend.
People often turn to natural remedies because they don’t believe the big pharmaceutical companies actually care about the well-being of their customers. The shift towards nutraceuticals is, in part, a vote of no confidence in the traditional healthcare model, signalling a demand for approaches that prioritize patient health over corporate profits.
3. Natural is better
The third reason is that people want more natural solutions to their health crises. Prescription diabetes medications may have nasty side effects. In contrast, natural diabetes supplements are seen as safe, effective, and in tune with nature's way of healing.
It's all about the belief that Mother Nature knows best, providing remedies that go hand in hand with our body's natural flow. This lean towards natural and preventive care is part of a bigger move towards looking after our well-being in a more holistic way, focusing on keeping the whole system in check rather than just tackling symptoms.
But, what about natural supplements costs?
Don’t be misled. Natural supplements are big business too.
The companies that produce natural diabetes supplements care very much about making a profit. It’s just that they’re amateurs compared to the big prescription drug companies.
The top 7 natural diabetes supplements described below are not cheap. But, they’re pennies on the dollar when compared with Metformin, and other diabetes drugs.
What makes the Top 7 Natural Diabetes Supplements Effective?
According to the Mayo Clinic there are several approaches to treating Type 2 Diabetes with drugs.
It’s worth looking at these because these are exactly how the top 7 natural diabetes supplements claim to work.
The problem with the drugs designed for each of these approaches is that they all tend to be very expensive and have undesirable side-effects.
In contrast, natural diabetes supplements provide many benefits. Plus they are much more affordable and generally come with fewer and milder side-effects.
Natural diabetes supplement ingredients are not blunt instruments like medicines tend to be. Minerals, herbs and other plants work more selectively, but that also means single ingredient natural remedies may not be enough on their own.
For example, adding Chromium to your diet may help to control your blood sugar, but it may not be enough on its own to make your diabetes symptoms run away and hide.
Instead, every one of the top 7 natural diabetes supplements depends on the synergistic effects of multiple natural ingredients working together.
The Top 7 Natural Diabetes Supplements
All 7 of these leading natural-ingredient based diabetes supplements lay claim to some combination of increasing insulin production, insulin sensitivity or decreasing unhealthy blood glucose levels.
But each supplement approaches this challenge in different ways. Each one mimics one or more of the 6 medicinal approaches described above, with the vital distinction of using natural ingredients.
Plantsulin
Plantsulin claims to target the root cause of diabetes and high blood sugar.
Medical researcher Allen Young looked at the original research into insulin by Canadian scientists, which started with isolating insulin from the pancreas of a dog.
Young applied the same methodology to researching insulin-like compounds found in a variety of plants. Ones that are available to anyone, without the need for a prescription.
Out of the hundreds he researched, Young picked the eleven plants with the most powerful effects on blood sugar management and created Plantsulin.
The following are Plantsulin's diabetes miracle herbs:
Solomon's Seal (Polygonatum)
Solomon’s Seal is a treasure from the world of natural remedies that flies under the radar, but don’t ignore it. It's worth shining a light on, especially when it comes to managing diabetes.
Solomon's Seal extract is made from the roots of the plant. It's a traditional remedy with a history of use in various cultures for a myriad of conditions, including inflammation and heart diseases.
But what's really impressive is its potential for helping people with diabetes. Here's why:
- Blood Sugar Regulation: Solomon's Seal has properties that might help regulate blood sugar levels. This is crucial for anyone managing diabetes because keeping those levels steady is the name of the game.
- Anti-inflammatory Benefits: Solomon's Seal may help to reduce inflammation. Inflammation is a big deal in diabetes because it can make the condition worse.
- Antioxidant Properties: Solomon’s Seal antioxidant properties help combat oxidative stress, which is linked to diabetes and its complications. Antioxidants can help protect the body's cells and ensure that everything's running smoothly.
Shepherd's Purse
Shepherd’s Purse is a humble yet mighty plant, packs a surprising punch for those managing diabetes. This little powerhouse is celebrated for its potential to naturally lower blood sugar levels, making it an intriguing ally in the diabetes care arsenal.
Imagine a natural helper, working alongside your diet and exercise regimen, to gently guide your blood sugar toward a healthier balance.
The secret lies in its compounds, which are believed to improve insulin sensitivity and pancreatic function, the two critical factors in controlling diabetes.
Lycium Berry
Allen claims Lycium berry (also known as goji berries) is a “glucose supporting wonder plant.” Lycium contains a nutrient that boosts GLUT4 in the body. That’s important because GLUT4 receptors in your bloodstream are what signals your body to release insulin.
Lycium berries also help fight off oxidative stress and inflammation—two big villains in the diabetes narrative.
Bellflower Root
Bellflower Root is rich in platycodin, a natural compound beneficial for blood sugar management that resists the absorption of carbohydrates in the intestines. This leads to the body taking in less sugar from consumed food than it typically would.
Eleuthero
Eleuthero, often celebrated for its adaptogenic qualities, shows promise in supporting diabetes management by enhancing glucose metabolism and boosting energy levels. This, in turn, can help stabilize blood sugar levels, making it a valuable ally in the holistic approach to diabetes care.
Astragalus
Astragalus is renowned for its potential to improve insulin sensitivity and stimulate the body's natural ability to process glucose efficiently.
Additionally, its antioxidant properties may aid in protecting against diabetic complications, offering a multifaceted approach to managing the condition.
Licorice Root
Licorice root mimics the effects of insulin and helps reduce blood sugar levels. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties also help to prevent chronic complications associated with diabetes.
Milk Thistle
Milk Thistle is a superstar when it comes to diabetes management because it contains silymarin, a compound that’s been found to help regulate blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity. Plus, its antioxidant properties can provide a protective shield for your liver, enhancing its function, which is crucial for maintaining overall metabolic health.
Schizandra Berry
Schizandra berry has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine for a number of health issues, including digestive problems, low energy and blood sugar balance. It's also known for helping to improve insulin sensitivity.
White Mulberry Leaf Extract
White Mulberry Leaf Extract is used to slow down the breakdown of sugars in the gut, meaning it helps in keeping blood sugar levels in check after meals. This makes it easier to manage the blood sugar spikes that come with diabetes. That reason alone has made it a popular ingredient in many blood sugar support formulas.
Wild Yam Extract
Wild Yam Extract contains the ingredient diosgenin, which helps improve insulin sensitivity and healthy blood sugar levels.
Other Reported Benefits Of Plantsulin
The manufacturer reports that tens of thousands of people have used Plantsulin without experiencing tiredness or other negative side effects.
The makers of Plantsulin claims it gets rid of the roller coaster of up and down blood sugar readings. Steady is good!
Getting rid of Brain Fog. Poor mental focus comes with the territory of low blood sugar and diabetes, but Plantsulin remedies this by balancing blood sugar levels.
Eating Carbs Guilt-Free: Plantsulin claims that if you take it you won’t have to worry about eating carbs anymore. Plantsulin’s ability to balance blood sugar levels reportedly means you can even eat foods like pie, pizza and pasta without feeling guilty.
Gluco Savior
The scientists at Gluco Savior claim that plaque build-up in the pancreas, resulting from exposure to toxins and chemicals, is one of the root causes of type 2 diabetes. And they claim that Gluco Savior is specifically formulated in order to remedy that condition.
Researchers have found that high blood glucose levels and glucose intolerance often occur because of defective insulin production by pancreatic beta cells. A 2014 study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation argues that beta cell dysfunction is tied to amyloid plaques and toxic amyloid molecules next to the beta cells.
Gluco Savior reports that people living in a geographic area of Costa Rica don’t experience this plaque buildup, don’t get diabetes and don’t have high blood sugar problems. But, there’s no genetic explanation and they’re reportedly exposed to the same level of toxins that people in the U.S. are.
Gluco Savior says it’s the diets of these Costa Ricans that keep them diabetes free. So Gluco Savior uses the same types of natural ingredients found in Costa Rica in its formula. As a result they claim Gluco Savior eliminates 73% of the pancreas plaques that cause high blood sugar.
For more information about how Gluco Savior stacks up against other naturally healthy diabetes supplements please read our Gluco Savior Review.
Gluco Savior Ingredients
Momordica Charantia
Momordica Charantia, also known as bitter melon, may help in managing diabetes by reducing blood sugar levels through its insulin-like compounds. It can also enhance the body's natural glucose uptake and metabolism, potentially improving glycemic control for those managing the condition.
Gymnema Sylvestre
Gymnema Sylvestre is known for its ability to potentially reduce sugar cravings and lower blood sugar levels, thanks to its active compounds that mimic glucose molecules. This herb might also aid in the regeneration of pancreas beta cells, which can improve insulin production.
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Alpha Lipoic Acid may support diabetes treatment by enhancing insulin sensitivity, providing better blood sugar control. Additionally, it acts as a powerful antioxidant, potentially reducing oxidative stress related to diabetic complications.
Cinnamon Bark
Cinnamon bark may improve blood glucose management for diabetes by increasing insulin sensitivity, which can help lower blood sugar levels. It also has antioxidant properties that may reduce inflammation and the risk of complications associated with diabetes.
Juniper Berry
Berries from the juniper plant have natural compounds that mimic insulin. That potentially helps Juniper Berry aid in diabetes management by lowering blood sugar levels. It also has beneficial antioxidant properties.
Yarrow
Yarrow may promote improved glucose metabolism, potentially aiding in the reduction of blood sugar levels. It also has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties for overall metabolic health.
Mulberry Fruit
Mulberry fruit may support diabetes treatment by naturally reducing blood sugar levels, thanks to a compound called DNJ (1-deoxynojirimycin), which inhibits carbohydrate absorption in the intestines. Also, its high fiber content can aid in managing glucose levels, potentially improving insulin sensitivity and overall metabolic health.
Cayenne
Cayenne pepper might offer benefits for diabetes management by enhancing insulin sensitivity, which can help in better glucose uptake into the cells, potentially lowering blood sugar levels. Its capsaicin content is also known to influence the metabolic rate, possibly aiding in weight management, an important factor for those managing diabetes.
Chromium
Chromium supplements may play a role in diabetes treatment by improving the body's insulin sensitivity, thereby potentially aiding in better blood sugar control. This trace mineral is believed to enhance the action of insulin, possibly leading to more efficient glucose metabolism and stabilization of blood sugar levels.
Diabacore
Diabacore claims that the root cause of type 2 diabetes comes down to two types of toxic microbes that are first generated in the gut, then move to attack organs within your body, including the pancreas.
Diabacore claims its formula selectively destroys the toxic microbes without killing the good microbes responsible for optimum gut health.
In the process Diabacore detoxifies the pancreas and supports pancreas beta cells that affect insulin secretion, thus avoiding insulin resistance.
Diabacore’s key ingredients include Mulberry leaves, Cayenne pepper, Guggul (Commiphora Mukul), Licorice root, Vanadium, Gymnema Sylvestre, Banaba, White Mulberry and Juniper Berries.
CinnaChroma
CinnaChroma aims to reduce blood glucose levels and sugar cravings. The formula combines a number of minerals and nutrients used in traditional medicinal approaches. These ingredients have exhibited remarkable healing properties, both individually and in combination.
CinnaChroma stands behind their claims with a full satisfaction-guaranteed 365 day money-back guarantee. This is the longest guarantee of any of the top 7 diabetes supplements.
CinnaChroma Benefits Claims
- Helps lower A1C and blood sugar spikes in type 2 diabetes
- Improves insulin sensitivity
- Helps regulate your blood sugar levels
- Helps manage blood glucose levels
- Reduces cravings for sweets
- Allows you to eat bread, rice and pasta without spiking your blood glucose levels
The other top 7 diabetes supplements in this review are all pretty complicated formulations, with lots of ingredients. CinnaChroma, in contrast, claims to work with a potent combination of only 6 simple but very powerful ingredients.
CinnaChroma Ingredients:
Sugar Defender
Sugar Defender is batch-created from select natural elements designed to work together to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
Key ingredients such as Cinnamon Bark extract, Chromium, Alpha-lipoic acid, Eleuthero, Astragalus, Coleus, Maca, African Mango, Guarana and Bitter Melon extract stand out for their potential diabetes fighting benefits.
It's formulated not just to help keep blood sugar levels in check, but also to support a healthy blood sugar metabolism, contributing to better overall health.
Additionally, Alpha-Lipoic acid among other components, provides antioxidant benefits, protecting cells from the damages inflicted by free radicals, which are linked to numerous health problems.
Sugar Defender offers several benefits, such as its ability to manage blood sugar levels effectively. This feature is particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with prediabetes or diabetes, or for anyone who wants to maintain steady blood sugar levels.
Keeping blood sugar in check is crucial for a consistent energy flow all day long, preventing unexpected drops in energy. Additionally, Sugar Defender's antioxidant properties provide a shield against oxidative stress, promoting cell health and enhancing overall well-being.
Glucolean
Glucolean, a popular diabetes supplement, claims it can lower your blood sugar levels by reducing enzymes that convert glucose into sugar.
Understanding How Glucolean Blood Sugar Support Works
Glucolean works with a blend of naturally sourced ingredients, each backed by scientific research for their beneficial impacts on blood sugar control. It can be very effective in keeping insulin levels balanced, improving how glucose is used, and ensuring the pancreas functions correctly.
Key Ingredients
- Cinnamon Bark Extract: For centuries, cinnamon has been celebrated for its health benefits, notably its ability to help manage blood sugar by boosting insulin sensitivity and promoting better glucose processing.
- Gymnema Sylvestre is an herb revered for its knack for curbing sugar cravings and blocking sugar absorption in the digestive tract. Additionally, it bolsters pancreatic health and aids in insulin production.
- Alpha-Lipoic Acid is known for its powerful antioxidant properties. It enhances insulin sensitivity and mitigates oxidative stress linked to diabetes and elevated blood sugar levels.
- Chromium Picolinate: Chromium is an essential mineral that is critical for metabolizing glucose. It improves insulin's effectiveness and plays a key role in balancing blood sugar.
- Bitter Melon is rich in compounds that act similarly to insulin, helping with glucose absorption and use. Its antioxidant attributes also offer protection from oxidative harm.
Glucolean Benefits
- Regulated Blood Sugar Levels: By aiding insulin functionality and glucose metabolism, this supplement ensures blood sugar levels remain within a healthy range.
- Improved Insulin Sensitivity:Glucolean Drops boost the body's ability to use glucose efficiently for energy, thanks to improved insulin sensitivity.
- Reduced Sugar Cravings: With Gymnema Sylvestre as part of its formula, it becomes easier to maintain a nutritious diet by reducing the desire for sugar.
- Enhanced Pancreatic Function: Supporting optimal pancreatic operation, Glucolean ensures effective insulin generation and release.
- Antioxidant Protection: Antioxidants like Alpha-Lipoic Acid and Bitter Melon Extract safeguard against the damage high blood sugar can cause.
Green Glucose
Green Glucose is a unique approach to blood sugar support supplements. It checks the right boxes for slowing sugar absorption in the gut and stimulating the Pancreas to produce Insulin.
But it also reinforces the efficiency of these processes and overall health by doubling down with classic green powder benefits. Those benefits include a potent mix of probiotics, prebiotics, greens, enzymes, antioxidants and fiber.
Is Green Glucose both a diabetes supplement and a green powder?
Green Glucose is also unique in its use of adaptogenic mushrooms, which are efficiently assimilated within the green powder base. Adaptogens are bioactive ingredients found in plants and mushrooms that have the ability to help your body deal with anxiety, stress and fatigue.
Green Glucose boosts its effectiveness with six medicinal mushrooms: Cordyceps, Reishi, Shiitake, Lion’s Mane, Turkey Tail and King Trumpet. Here are a few of the most important ingredients in Green Glucose:
Ingredient | Action |
Cordyceps | Improves glucose sensitivity |
Turkey Tail | Improves immune response |
Sukre (prebiotic) | Activates GLP-1 to optimize blood sugar levels |
Spirulina | Reduces blood sugar levels |
Baobab Fiber | Helps to balance glucose levels |
Chromium | May improve insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism in people with insulin resistance. |
Barley | Contains beta-glucan, which may reduce the absorption of sugar in the blood. |
Reishi | Enhance immune response by increasing creation of white blood cells. Strong adaptogen support. |
Alfalfa | Improves glucose absorption in the stomach and lowers overall blood sugar levels. |
Safety of the Top 7 Natural Diabetes Supplements
Diabetes drugs have to be approved by the FDA before they can be sold to the public. Diabetic supplements, however, don’t have to clear this hurdle.
Supplement companies are responsible for having evidence that their products are safe, and that the benefits they claim are true and not misleading.
That includes all of the natural diabetic supplements reviewed in this article.
In contrast, just because diabetes drugs have been approved by the FDA doesn’t mean that they are always safe to use. Consider some of the known potential side effects of some of the most popular diabetes medicines.
Medicine | Action | Potential Side Effects |
Metformin | Limit the liver's ability to release sugar Improve cells' sensitivity to insulin | Nausea Stomach pain Diarrhea Lactic acidosis Hepatoxicity Acute pancreatitis |
Rosiglitazone | Improve cells' sensitivity to insulin | Weight gain |
Acarbose | Slow the body's ability to breakdown starches and some sugars | Gas Stomach pain Diarrhea |
Empagliflozin (Jardiance) | Limit the kidneys' ability to take in sugar, which increases the amount of sugar that leaves the body in urine | Urinary tract infections Yeast infections |
Pramlintide | Help regulate blood sugar Slow food moving through the stomach | Blood sugar levels drop too low Nausea Abdominal pain |
Repaglinide | Trigger the release of insulin from the pancreas | Blood sugar levels drop too low (hypoglycemia) Weight gain |
Glipizide | Trigger the release of insulin from the pancreas | Blood sugar levels drop too low Weight gain Skin rash Nausea or vomiting if you drink alcohol |
Saxagliptin | Cause the release of insulin when blood sugar is rising Limit the liver's ability to release glucose | Upper respiratory tract infection Sore throat Headache |
Dulaglutide | Cause the release of insulin as blood sugar levels are rising | Nausea Vomiting Diarrhea Abdominal pain Increased risk of inflamed pancreas (pancreatitis) |
Scientific Research on Natural Diabetes Supplement Ingredients
Astragalus
Astragalus is an important ingredient in Sugar Defender and Plantsulin.
Astragalus, a traditional Chinese medicinal herb, has gained attention for its potential therapeutic effects in the treatment of Type 2 diabetes. The research findings on Astragalus highlight several important mechanisms through which it can benefit individuals with this condition:
Blood Sugar Regulation Studies have demonstrated that Astragalus may help lower blood sugar levels in people with Type 2 diabetes. This effect is thought to be due to its ability to enhance insulin sensitivity and possibly increase insulin production, which helps in the efficient utilization of glucose by the body.
Anti-inflammatory Effects Chronic inflammation is a key factor in the development and progression of Type 2 diabetes. Astragalus has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties, which could help reduce inflammation-related insulin resistance.
Antioxidant Activity Oxidative stress plays a significant role in the complications associated with diabetes. The antioxidant components in Astragalus can help mitigate oxidative damage, thereby protecting pancreatic cells and improving insulin function.
Improvement in Lipid Metabolism Some research suggests that Astragalus can also help improve lipid metabolism, reducing levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides. This is crucial for managing Type 2 diabetes, as patients often have lipid abnormalities.
Nephroprotective Effects Diabetes can lead to kidney damage over time, a condition known as diabetic nephropathy. Astragalus has shown potential in protecting the kidneys from damage, likely through its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions.
Immune System Support Though not directly related to blood sugar regulation, Astragalus's ability to support the immune system may also benefit people with Type 2 diabetes, as they are more prone to infections.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a key ingredient in CinnaChroma, Gluco Savior, Sugar Defender and GlucoLean. Cinnamon has gotten a lot of attention and press for its anti-diabetic properties. The research surrounding cinnamon's use in treating diabetes symptoms includes these findings:
Improvement in Blood Glucose Levels Numerous studies suggest that cinnamon can help lower fasting blood glucose levels in people with Type 2 diabetes. The compounds in cinnamon are believed to enhance insulin sensitivity, improving the glucose uptake by cells and reduce blood sugar levels.
Effects on Lipid Profiles Research also indicates that cinnamon may have a beneficial impact on lipid profiles, including reducing total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol (often referred to as “bad” cholesterol), and triglycerides. This can contribute to a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases, which people with diabetes are at higher risk for.
Antioxidant Properties Cinnamon is rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is a condition characterized by an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body, which is a common concern in diabetes. By reducing oxidative stress, cinnamon may help avoid some complications associated with Type 2 diabetes.
Mechanisms of Action The precise mechanisms through which cinnamon affects blood glucose levels are still being researched. However, it is believed to mimic insulin, improve insulin receptor activity, and enhance insulin signaling pathways in skeletal muscle and liver cells.
Chromium
Chromium figures prominently in the formulations of CinnaChroma, Gluco Savior and Sugar Defender. Chromium is a trace mineral naturally found in a number of foods and supplements. It’s also been studied extensively for its potential benefits in managing Type 2 diabetes.
Here are some of the potential benefits, based on various scientific research studies.
Improvement in Glucose Metabolism Several studies have reported that chromium supplementation can lead to improvements in blood glucose levels among individuals with Type 2 diabetes. Chromium is thought to enhance the action of insulin, the hormone responsible for controlling blood sugar levels, thereby improving glucose metabolism.
Enhanced Insulin Sensitivity Research suggests that chromium may increase insulin sensitivity, making it easier for the body to maintain normal blood sugar levels. This is especially helpful for people with Type 2 diabetes, who often struggle with insulin resistance.
Safety and Efficacy While chromium is generally considered safe when taken in appropriate amounts, excessive intake can lead to side effects, including skin irritation, headaches, dizziness, and gastrointestinal issues. The long-term safety of high-dose chromium supplementation remains unclear, and more research is needed to establish definitive guidelines.
Variability in Response The response to chromium supplementation can vary widely among individuals with Type 2 diabetes. Some people may experience significant benefits, while others notice minimal or no improvement. This variability may be influenced by factors such as the individual's diet, the severity of insulin resistance, and genetic predispositions.
Cordyceps Mushrooms
Cordyceps mushroom is one of Green Glucose’s essential ingredients. This mushroom, traditionally used in Chinese medicine, has been studied for its effects on blood sugar levels, insulin sensitivity, and overall metabolic health.
Here are the findings you need to know about.
Blood Glucose Reduction Some studies have found that compounds in cordyceps mushrooms can help lower blood sugar levels. The mechanism is thought to involve stimulation of insulin release from the pancreas or by mimicking insulin itself, which helps to decrease blood glucose levels.
Improvement in Insulin Sensitivity Research indicates that cordyceps may improve insulin sensitivity, allowing the body to use insulin more effectively. This is crucial for people with Type 2 diabetes, who often suffer from insulin resistance, a condition where the body's cells do not respond adequately to insulin.
Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects Cordyceps mushrooms possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress play a significant role in the development and progression of diabetes and its complications. By reducing inflammation and combating oxidative stress, cordyceps could potentially lessen these harmful effects.
Effects on Lipid Metabolism Some evidence suggests that cordyceps can improve the lipid profile by lowering levels of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and triglycerides, while increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. This could help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, which are a major concern for individuals with diabetes.
Safety and Side Effects Cordyceps is generally considered safe for most people when taken in moderation. However, as with any supplement, there can be potential side effects, especially when taken in large amounts or for a prolonged period. The safety of cordyceps has not been extensively studied in pregnant or breastfeeding women, individuals with autoimmune diseases, or those on immunosuppressive medications.
Momordica Charantia
Gluco Savior, Diabacore and Sugar Defender all rely on Momordica charantia, also known as bitter melon. This supplement has been traditionally used in various parts of the world as a natural remedy for managing diabetes.
Scientific research into its effectiveness for treating Type 2 diabetes has highlighted several potential benefits
Blood Glucose Reduction The most significant finding from the research is that compounds in Momordica charantia can lower blood sugar levels. Several studies have shown that consuming bitter melon can lead to decreases in fasting blood glucose and improve glucose tolerance. The fruit contains several key compounds, such as charantin, vicine, and polypeptide-p, which are believed to have insulin-like effects that help in lowering blood glucose levels.
Improved Insulin Sensitivity Some studies suggest that bitter melon can improve insulin sensitivity, which is beneficial for people with Type 2 diabetes who often suffer from insulin resistance. By enhancing the uptake of glucose into cells, it helps in reducing blood sugar levels and managing diabetes more effectively.
Influence on Carbohydrate Digestion Research indicates that bitter melon may slow down the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates in the gut, which helps prevent spikes in blood sugar levels after meals. This is thought to be due to certain enzymes in the fruit that inhibit the conversion of starches into sugar.
Safety and Side Effects While bitter melon is generally considered safe when consumed as a food, there can be side effects, especially when taken in large amounts or in supplement form. These can include gastrointestinal upset, diarrhea, and in very high doses, it can potentially lower blood sugar levels too much. Pregnant women are advised against consuming bitter melon as it may induce contractions.
Gymnema Sylvestre
Gymnema Sylvestre, a traditional medicinal plant known for its use in Ayurvedic medicine, is used in Diabacore and GlucoLean for its potential benefits in the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
Here’s are a few of the most important research findings regarding its use:
Blood Sugar Regulation Studies have shown that Gymnema Sylvestre can aid in lowering blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. This effect is attributed to the plant's ability to increase insulin production in the pancreas, which helps in the utilization of glucose by cells.
Reduction in Sugar Cravings The plant contains compounds known as gymnemic acids, which have been reported to reduce the absorption of sugar in the intestines. Additionally, these compounds can also dull the taste buds' sensitivity to sweet flavors, thereby potentially reducing sugar cravings and intake.
Improvement in Insulin Sensitivity Research indicates that Gymnema Sylvestre can improve insulin sensitivity, making it easier for the body to manage blood sugar levels. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with type 2 diabetes, as it helps in better glucose control.
Weight Management Support Given its potential to reduce sugar absorption and cravings, Gymnema Sylvestre may also support weight management, which is a crucial aspect of managing type 2 diabetes. By possibly aiding in weight loss or preventing weight gain, it contributes to better overall diabetes management.
Long-Term Effects and Safety While the short-term use of Gymnema Sylvestre appears to be beneficial and safe for most people. Current studies indicate it's well-tolerated, however the long-term effects and safety profile require more extensive research.
Solomon’s Seal Extract
Solomon's Seal (Polygonatum) is the star ingredient in Plantsulin. Its extract is another traditional remedy that has been explored for its potential benefits in managing type 2 diabetes.
Here are a few key findings from the research on Solomon's Seal and its impact on diabetes.
Blood Glucose Management Preliminary studies suggest that Solomon's Seal extract may help in lowering blood glucose levels. The compounds found in the plant are believed to have a mechanism that could enhance glucose metabolism, thus aiding in the reduction of blood sugar levels.
Anti-inflammatory Properties Solomon's Seal has been noted for its anti-inflammatory effects, which can be beneficial in managing the complications associated with diabetes. Chronic inflammation is a known factor in the development of insulin resistance, and by mitigating inflammation, Solomon's Seal could potentially improve insulin sensitivity.
Antioxidant Activity The extract has also demonstrated antioxidant properties in studies. Antioxidants are crucial for diabetic individuals as they help combat oxidative stress, a condition linked with various diabetes complications. By reducing oxidative stress, Solomon's Seal extract may offer protective benefits against diabetes-related damage.
Safety and Efficacy The available studies suggest it is generally safe when used in moderation. However, as with many herbal supplements, the long-term safety and efficacy of Solomon's Seal extract for diabetes treatment need further investigation.
Why It’s Important To Involve Your Doctor Before Taking Natural Diabetic Supplements
It's always advisable for patients to discuss the use of natural diabetic supplements with their healthcare providers to ensure it fits safely within their overall diabetes management plan.
You might already be taking one or more doctor prescribed diabetes remedies. If that’s the case then adding diabetic supplements on top of medicines could result in biological reactions or side effects you did not expect.
A few of the substances that reportedly don’t mix well with diabetes medications include niacin, St. John’s wort, ginseng, aloe vera, gingko biloba and even ginger.
The 7 natural diabetes supplements described in this article were each formulated from many different ingredients, based on how they work together. Remove one ingredient or substitute a different ingredient and the intended effect on your diabetes symptoms or overall health could go out the window.
In the same way, the result of mixing specifically formulated supplements with prescription medicines or other types of supplements is unpredictable and could be bad for your health.
Financial Risks of Buying Natural Diabetic Supplements
Comparing the prices of the top 7 natural diabetic supplements makes it clear that this is a very competitive market.
Demand for these top diabetes supplements has had a leveling effect on pricing, even though the ingredients and manufacturing costs vary.
To be competitive in this market, each of the 7 supplement manufacturers offers at least a 60 day no-questions-asked money-back guarantee.
That means the diabetes supplement manufacturers take on most of the risk that these products won’t deliver on their promised value.
60 days is long enough for most consumers to figure out if one of these supplements is really helping them. To assume even more of the risk, Gluco Savior and Plantsulin offer a 180 day money-back guarantee, and CinnaChroma offers an astonishing 365 day money-back guarantee.
That makes these offers much less risky, and much more attractive to potential customers. Which means more people buy these products, try them, and potentially provide testimonials about how well they work.
Because of the relatively low prices of these supplements compared to prescription drug prices, consumers may enjoy significant cost savings.
Recommendations
First, work together with your health professional to come up with the most effective and safest diabetes or prediabetes health plan for you.
Each of the natural diabetic supplements reviewed here was selected for how it approaches the treatment of type 2 diabetes, as described by the Mayo Clinic and shown above, and also for how well the current scientific literature supports the use of the ingredients in each formulation.
There is no wrong choice, however our personal preference is Plantsulin.
Individual results are bound to be different for each of these supplements, considering the uniqueness and complexity of each human body, and considering differing health and prescription drug use histories.
With your doctor’s concurrence, any of these top 7 natural diabetic supplements may provide significant benefits in minimizing diabetes symptoms, with fewer and milder side-effects than currently available prescription medications.
And the out of pocket cost risks are minimized by the 60+ day money-back guarantees.
Feature Image by by Calum Lewis on Unsplash.