Healthy Blood Sugar Levels Supplements & Vitamins *

Which are the best supplements for supporting healthy blood sugar levels (glycaemia) in individuals looking to maintain balanced glucose levels?*

If there’s one area where dietary supplements can offer valuable support, it’s this one. Numerous natural-source substances are recognized for their ability to help maintain healthy blood sugar levels and support daily well-being.* Generally, these supplements work through three key mechanisms to promote balanced glucose levels:

• They support the body’s natural production of insulin, helping cells absorb blood sugar more efficiently.*
• They promote glycolysis, the natural process of breaking down sugar to produce energy.*
• They help regulate the liver’s glucose production from non-carbohydrate reserves, a process called gluconeogenesis.*

Berberine: A Standout for Blood Sugar Support*

Berberine is a key compound found in several plants traditionally used in wellness practices, including Rhizoma coptidis and Berberis vulgaris (barberry). It is widely recognized for its ability to support healthy blood sugar levels and overall metabolic health.*

Blood tests indicate that Berberine may help support balanced fasting and post-prandial blood sugar levels (measured after a meal) while also contributing to healthy weight management.*

A recent study found that taking 500mg of berberine twice a day for three months significantly supported balanced fasting and post-prandial blood sugar levels, as well as healthy HbA1c levels (a key indicator of blood sugar balance over time).* Another study suggested that berberine’s effects were comparable to those of metformin, a commonly prescribed medication for managing blood sugar.*

In February 2015, a meta-analysis, which reviewed 27 clinical trials conducted on humans, highlighted berberine’s potential to support blood sugar balance, healthy lipid levels, and cardiovascular health.* Notably, these studies reported no significant side effects associated with berberine use.*

Suggested Use: Take one capsule of Berberine 500 mg just before or after the two main meals of the day, or as advised by a healthcare professional.*

Vitamin D: Essential Support, especially for Individuals with Higher Body Weight*

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in supporting the body’s overall function.* However, studies suggest that nearly 80% of Western populations, and a significant majority of those over 60, may not meet recommended intake levels.*

In addition to its key role in supporting calcium absorption, vitamin D is involved in maintaining healthy insulin function.* Research suggests that this benefit may be particularly significant in individuals with higher body weight: one study found that those with inadequate vitamin D levels had a significantly higher risk of insulin resistance.*

This effect has also been observed in healthy individuals: in one study, participants who took vitamin D3 (420 IU/day for one year) experienced increased vitamin D blood levels (from 13 ng/mL to 24 ng/mL), improved fasting blood sugar levels (from 88.3 mg/dL to 85.3 mg/dL), and a significant reduction in insulin resistance (from 1.17 to 0.84).* Another study found that taking at least 500 IU of vitamin D daily was associated with a 10% to 40% reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes, depending on initial circulating vitamin D levels.*

Suggested Use: Take one tablet a day of Vitamin D3 1000IU for at least three months, particularly during the winter months to help compensate for reduced sun exposure.*

Ginseng: A Natural Tonic for Supporting Healthy Blood Sugar Levels*

While lowering blood sugar levels is not its primary benefit, ginseng is widely recognized for its ability to revitalize the body and support immune function, particularly in individuals experiencing fatigue or weakness.*

Clinical trials have demonstrated ginseng's potential to support healthy blood sugar levels.* In one study involving older individuals with type 2 diabetes, daily supplementation with an extract standardized to 10% ginsenosides (3 x 1g/day for two months, taken 40 minutes before meals) was associated with reduced fasting blood sugar (-0.71 mmol/L) and HbA1c levels (-0.3%).* Another study found that standardized ginseng extract helped lower post-prandial blood sugar levels without affecting insulin secretion or causing side effects.*

Suggested Use: Take 3-4 capsules of Ginseng Standardized to 30% Ginsenosides (the active compounds), shortly before meals, or as advised by your healthcare professional.*

Chromium: A Mineral that Supports Insulin Function*

Chromium is an essential trace element required for the body’s optimal function.* It is known to support tissue insulin sensitivity, which plays a role in maintaining balanced blood sugar and insulin levels.* Modern farming and food refining practices have significantly reduced chromium content in the diet. Research also suggests that chromium levels naturally decline with age, which may be linked to changes in metabolic health.*

A meta-analysis of 41 clinical trials on chromium supplementation (with doses ranging from 1 to 1000 µg over 3 to 8 months) highlighted its potential to support balanced fasting blood sugar and HbA1c levels in individuals with diabetes.*

Suggested Use: Take 2 capsules of Crominex® 3+ (2 x 400 µg) after the two main meals of the day, or as recommended by your healthcare practitioner.*

Alpha-Lipoic Acid: A Universal Antioxidant for Long-Term Blood Sugar Support*

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is naturally present in every cell of the body and is often used to help mitigate the effects of long-term imbalances in blood sugar levels.*

Oral supplementation with alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) has been studied for its potential to support nerve health and alleviate discomfort, such as tingling or numbness, associated with blood sugar imbalances.* Recent research also suggests that daily doses of 300-1200mg may help improve insulin sensitivity and support balanced blood sugar levels in individuals managing type 2 diabetes.*

Suggested Use: Take 3 capsules of R-lipoic Acid (3 x 100 mg) spread throughout the day, or as recommended by your healthcare practitioner, for a period of several months.*

To a lesser degree, the following are also recognized for their potential to support healthy blood sugar levels: curcumin, dietary fiber, extracts of Gymnema sylvestre, and silymarin.*

Conversely, the following substances may not be suitable for those aiming to support healthy blood sugar levels: niacin, digestive enzymes, CLA (conjugated linoleic acid), krill oil, and vitamin C.*

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