Everyone who works with people who are chronically stressed, including survivors of ACEs and trauma recognizes that chronic stress dysregulates the ability to handle glucose. This makes our clients vulnerable to a variety of physical diseases. The use of soda pop, high fructose corn syrup, and The SAD (Standard American Diet) makes us more likely to develop insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, pre-diabetes, and diabetes type 2.
Reactive hypoglycemia is often the first stage of a cascade of events that leads to diabetes. But, this is all preventable! Using diet exercise, stress reduction, and specific nutrients we can maintain health and even thrive.
The body possesses a complex set of checks and balances to maintain blood glucose concentrations within a narrow range. The pituitary, thyroid, adrenal glands, pancreas, liver, kidney, and even skeletal muscle influence blood sugar control. Effective regulation of blood glucose has important implications for health. Even mild disruptions of glucose homeostasis can have adverse consequences.
Chronic diabetes type 2 results in cardiovascular disease, neuropathy, blindness, and renal failure. Glucose homeostasis depends on the presence of a wide range of micronutrients and often the disease itself affects the availability of these nutrients. For example, people with diabetes type 2 may not metabolize fatty acids as efficiently and need higher doses than usual.
In the SAD diet, high in refined and processed foods, many of these micronutrients are in short supply. In addition, some individuals with blood sugar disorders have a special dietary need for higher amounts of one or more micronutrients.
Here are the top 6 nutritional supplements for prediabetes and diabetes type 2 that I like to recommend.
(Please note I do not earn a commission or royalty from these sales)
1. BioGlycozyme, Glucobalance
Possible Benefits
Broad-spectrum blood glucose balancer. Includes vitamins, minerals, and other trace nutrients for hyperglycemia.
2. Glucose Tolerance Factor
Possible Benefits
Glucose Tolerance Factor (GTF) is a formulation of nutrients that support the body in regulating blood sugar within normal levels. Chromium, an essential mineral, and guar gum, a soluble fiber, are known to play important roles in this regulation. GTF has been shown to potentiate the action of insulin at the cellular level. Niacin is essential for the synthesis of GTF.
3. Corosolic Acid
Possible Benefits
GlucoTrim® is an extract of the herb Lagerstroemia speciosa L., processed by water extraction and standardized to 1% corosolic acid. Research has shown that corosolic acid, the active triterpenoid, helps regulate blood sugar within normal levels by supporting glucose metabolism and activating glucose transport and uptake. In addition, it has been shown to support carbohydrate metabolism.
Suggested Use
As a dietary supplement, 1 soft gel half an hour before morning and evening meals, or as directed by a healthcare practitioner.
*Individuals using insulin should consult a healthcare professional before use.
4. Fish Oil
Possible Benefits
Hundreds of research studies around the world verify that Omega-3 fish oils offer extraordinary health benefits— reducing inflammation and increasing blood flow throughout the brain and body. Fish oil also helps insulin sensitivity. Additionally, taking Omega-3 will improve athletic performance; promote joint, heart, and skin health; support cardiovascular health, memory, and recall; and enhance emotional well-being.
Suggested Use
Daily requirements range from 2000 mg a day.
5. Pancreas Glandular (Allergy Research)
Possible Benefits
Provides enzymes that can enhance and support digestion; may support and modulate the immune function; may support blood glucose within normal limits; supports pancreatic function and fat digestion. Properly prepared pancreas glandular substance contains significant levels of amylase, protease, and lipase, as well as other digestive factors naturally occurring in the pancreas.
Individuals allergic to molds may find these to be a superior digestive enzyme over plant-based digestive enzymes. Those who are highly sensitive can use pancreas organic glandular products from lamb, pork, and beef in a dietary rotation plan.
This organic glandular material is processed by lyophilization of glands derived from government-inspected, range-fed animals, raised in New Zealand without hormones or antibiotics. The material is frozen, then subjected to a high vacuum that vaporizes moisture directly from the solid-state, thereby maintaining its biological activity.
Suggested Use
As a dietary supplement, 3 capsules 6 times daily, on an empty stomach, taken at least 1/2 to 1 hour before each meal, or as directed by a healthcare practitioner.
6. Berberine
Possible Benefits
Berberine, an extract from barberry, helps blood glucose levels and has been shown to reduce blood lipid levels resulting in weight loss.
Suggested Use
Take 500 milligrams 3 times a day for 3 months and then rotate to use other herbs.
For much more on nutrition for Prediabetes and Diabetes Type 2, explore my course Preventing and Treating Diabetes Type 2, Naturally.
She served as a Fulbright scholar on traditional medicine, a Clinical Fellow at Harvard Medical School, and a National Institutes of Health-funded research scientist in mind/body medicine.
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