There has been a recent shift in the medicinal world. The population is increasingly looking towards a functional health approach, combining both conventional and alternative medicinal practices and putting an emphasis on dietary therapy as the first method of healing. Ancient practices like Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) have become relevant again and are now trending – the world is literally eating them up.

If you read our last blog post on The Diabetes Pandemic, we reviewed the consequences of higher than normal blood glucose levels that have been proven to lead to serious complications like diabetes, heart disease, kidney damage, blindness, and more. At Groupe Nature Pharma, we strongly believe in the functional medicine approach. Below, we want to bring your attention to some natural products, mainly foods, herbs and supplements that have been proven to help manage the concentration of glucose in the blood, also known as glycaemia. 

1. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
   Many studies show that taking two tablespoons before bedtime can reduce your morning glucose levels. Additionally, 1-2 tablespoons of ACV taken with meals can decrease the glycemic load of a carbohydrate rich meal.

2. Fiber
   In The Diabetes Pandemic we talk about how fiber slows the rise of blood sugar levels. Eating fiber decreases blood sugar and insulin concentrations and the best way to incorporate it into your diet is by eating your veggies!

3. Chromium Supplement
   Chromium forms a compound in the body that enhances the effects of insulin and lowers glucose levelsbut be careful if you have kidney disease with this supplement.

4. Aloe Vera
   Aloe Vera has long been used as a homeopathic supplement for diabetes because of its ability to improve glycemic control.

5. Berberine
   Found in plants such as goldenseal, barberry, Oregon grape root and Coptis. Some research shows that taken daily for up to 3 months berberine can control glucose as effectively as metformin or rosiglitazone. However, this herb should never be taken while pregnant.

6. Cinnamon
   Ceylon Cinnamon, to be exact, is a medically beneficial indulgence to help lower glucose and cholesterol levels.

7. Fenugreek
   This seed commonly used as a food spice contains fiber and other chemicals that may slow digestion and the body’s absorption of carbohydrates and sugar.

8. Gymnema
   This plant has been used for centuries in India for its benefits in regulating glucose metabolism and insulin levels. However, because this botanical works synergistically with medication, you must monitor your glucose levels closely to avoid hypoglycemia.

9. Nopal
   Delicious! Some studies show that the prickly pear cactus fruit can decrease glucose levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

Many studies and years of application have evidenced the above listed items as natural products to control glycaemia. However, natural products and their dosages should be used with caution especially if you are taking other medications, so please consult your doctor before adding them to your diet. 

This post is also available in: Anglais