Keeping blood sugar levels stable isn’t just about avoiding sweets. Even healthy meals, especially those rich in carbohydrates, can trigger spikes in blood glucose as they are digested and absorbed into the bloodstream. While a balanced diet, regular exercise and medical treatment remain the cornerstones of blood sugar management, certain supplements may offer additional support by slowing glucose absorption, improving insulin sensitivity or helping the body process sugar more efficiently.
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Dr Kunal Sood, an anaesthesiologist and interventional pain medicine physician, has highlighted five supplements that may help support healthier blood glucose levels. In an Instagram video shared on June 13, the physician highlights, “Blood sugar often improves when glucose enters the bloodstream more gradually and insulin signaling becomes more efficient. These are supportive tools, not replacements for evidence-based diabetes management. Discuss with your doctor prior to starting any supplement.”
Berberine
According to Dr Sood, berberine – a naturally occurring plant compound often taken as a supplement – may help improve insulin sensitivity by influencing how the body processes glucose and fats. Research suggests that it can positively impact key markers of blood sugar control, including HbA1c levels and fasting blood glucose.
He explains, “Berberine may improve insulin sensitivity through AMPK-related pathways involved in glucose uptake, fat metabolism, and liver glucose production. Studies suggest improvements in fasting glucose, HbA1c, and insulin resistance markers.”
Psyllium husk
Psyllium husk is widely recommended as a fibre supplement because it forms a gel-like substance in the digestive tract, helping to slow the absorption of glucose and reduce rapid blood sugar spikes after meals. It also delays gastric emptying, which can promote a longer-lasting feeling of fullness.
Dr Sood highlights, “Psyllium forms a gel in the gut that slows gastric emptying and carbohydrate absorption. This can reduce post-meal glucose spikes and improve glycemic control, particularly in type 2 diabetes.”
Magnesium
The physician explains that magnesium plays a crucial role in insulin signalling and glucose metabolism, helping the body regulate blood sugar more effectively. Low magnesium levels have been associated with insulin resistance, and research suggests that supplementation may help improve fasting blood glucose levels, particularly in individuals who are deficient in the mineral.
Dr Sood notes, “Magnesium is involved in insulin signaling and glucose metabolism. Low magnesium is linked to insulin resistance, and supplementation may improve fasting glucose and HOMA-IR when deficiency or low intake is present.”
Apple cider vinegar
ACV contains acetic acid, which, according to the physician, may help slow both starch digestion and gastric emptying. When consumed alongside high-carbohydrate meals, it can help reduce post-meal blood sugar spikes, supporting steadier glucose levels and better overall blood sugar control.
He explains, “Acetic acid may slow starch digestion and gastric emptying, helping reduce post-meal glucose excursions. Benefits appear most noticeable when paired with higher-carbohydrate meals.”
Cinnamon
Dr Sood highlights that cinnamon contains bioactive compounds that may enhance insulin signalling and improve the body’s ability to transport and utilise glucose. Research suggests that regular cinnamon consumption may lead to modest improvements in key blood sugar markers, including fasting glucose.
The physician notes, “Cinnamon contains compounds that may influence insulin signaling and glucose transport. Some studies show modest improvements in fasting glucose, HbA1c, and insulin resistance markers, although results remain mixed.”
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. It is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.
