One health factor which must be observed as well as sometimes managed by adults when at unhealthy levels is their blood sugar level. Their lives depend on it. Here we take a brief look at why blood sugar levels matter, and then we discuss four of the best and most generally applicable supplements for reducing (as well managing) high blood sugar levels.
What Does Blood Sugar Matter?
More than one-third of Americans are said to have high blood sugar. A higher-than-normal blood sugar level is a precursor to many different types of disease. The most notable ones include diabetes, various forms of heart disease, and even certain infections.
Reducing a blood sugar level that is too high can help mitigate the risk of these diseases. For example, lowering A1C levels (a test measurement of blood sugar over the past 2-3 months) from a prediabetic level to a normal level can help an individual avoid the development of diabetes. Even without a diagnosis, short-term spikes in blood sugar can cause symptoms and be a sign that your blood sugar level is often too high.
Supplements to Manage Blood Sugar
These supplements can each play a part in your holistic effort to manage your elevated blood sugar level. Whether you are diabetic, prediabetic, or are simply desiring to manage your blood sugar level, then consider how these following natural remedies could help you:
Fiber is a type of carbohydrate which can benefit blood sugar levels by slowing digestion and preventing blood sugar spikes. Soluble fibers are helpful in this manner; soluble fiber supplements are available, such as psyllium husk fiber and oat bran soluble fiber. Studies show that supplementing with a soluble fiber can lower A1C levels.
Magnesium is a crucial mineral which can affect the body in cases of deficiency. Those deficient in magnesium could experience issues. Supplementing with magnesium can improve fasting blood sugar levels. Magnesium can be very helpful because it also can reduce blood triglyceride levels as well as other markers that could contribute to disease if they are too high.
Fenugreek is an herbal supplement made from the clover-like fenugreek herb. Research suggests that fenugreek can reduce A1C and post-meal blood sugar levels. This is likely due to the 4-Hydroxyisoleucine it contains, which is an amino acid that can stimulate the pancreas to release insulin.
Vitamin D: Research shows that people with the highest levels of vitamin D often have the least chance of developing type II diabetes. That is because vitamin D can reduce A1C levels and decrease insulin resistance. The effective benefits of supplementing with vitamin D can vary depending on your vitamin D status when you begin supplementation. However, vitamin D can indeed help manage blood glucose and has a number of other positive effects, so it is a choice supplement for those with high blood sugar.
If you have blood sugar that is too high, consider your dietary choices and how one or more of these supplements might help you. It is recommended that you talk to your healthcare provider before taking any supplement for the first time.