Maintaining adequate blood sugar control is challenging for many individuals with prediabetes and diabetes mellitus. In addition to diet and exercise, people are turning to natural supplements to help lower blood sugar levels in hopes to reduce or prevent the need for prescription medications. However, are these supplements safe and effective in helping to lower blood sugar?
In this article, we formulated a list of the top five supplements that lower blood sugar and explored their safety and ability to lower blood sugar levels.
Best blood sugar support supplements: shortlist
- Utzy Naturals — best supplement that lowers blood sugar
- HUM — best supplement to support normal glucose levels
- Oweli — best supplement with vitamin support
- ProHealth — best berberine supplement for blood sugar support
- Thrivous — best supplements to lower blood sugar and cholesterol
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Comparison of the best supplements to lower blood sugar
Supplement | Serving size | Cost per serving | Beneficial ingredients |
Utzy Naturals | 2 capsules | $1.45 | Chromium, alpha lipoic acid, vanadyl sulfate, ginger root extract, water-soluble form of cinnamon |
HUM | 2 capsules | $1.16 | Berberine and BioPerine® |
Oweli | 2 capsules | $0.93 | Multiple vitamins, minerals, and herbal bioactive |
ProHealth | 1 capsule | $0.49 | Berberine, alpha lipoic acid, bioperine black pepper fruit extract |
Thrivous | 2 capsules | $1.53 | Berberine, milk thistle, coenzyme Q10, blueberry fruit extract |
Top 5 blood sugar supplements in 2024: overview
High blood sugar levels are prevalent throughout the world. In addition, to diet and exercise, many people have added supplements to help lower blood sugar levels. With the large number of supplements on the market, it is difficult to choose one that is right for you. Therefore, we have reviewed the top five products that may help lower blood sugar levels.
1. Utzy Naturals — best supplement for blood sugar support
Glucose Support Factors by Utzy Naturals is an organic product that contains chromium, alpha lipoic acid, vanadyl sulfate, ginger root extract, and a water-soluble form of cinnamon (Cinnulin PF). These five ingredients each have research studies showing they can help lower glucose levels in patients with type II diabetes. In addition, during these studies, these supplements were well-tolerated with side effects comparable to placebo. However, these ingredients have not been evaluated by the FDA, and are not intended to treat diabetes.
Utzy Naturals uses NSF-certified third-party testing to confirm the purity of their ingredients, and each product is manufactured in facilities licensed to produce USDA-certified organic products.
The manufacturer recommends taking two Glucose Support Factors capsules daily preferably before a meal. A 30-day supply costs $43.50. Additional savings are possible with their subscribe and save program. This product also offers a 90-day empty bottle money-back guarantee if you are not satisfied with the results.
2. HUM — best supplement to support normal glucose levels
HUM's Best of Berberine stands out as a promising choice if you want a supplement that is designed to maintain normal glucose levels. This vegan-friendly product is not only free from major allergens but is also subjected to third-party testing to ensure its composition and label accuracy.
Within each serving, consisting of 2 capsules, you will find a total of 1200 mg of berberine and 5 mg of BioPerine®. The latter is a patented formula of black pepper extract created to help your body absorb berberine more efficiently.
Much like all of HUM's products, the Best of Berberine is manufactured in facilities certified to follow FDA-required GMPs.
You can snatch up the HUM Best of Berberine bottle for only $35. This bottle comes packed with 60 capsules, good for a month's use.
3. Oweli — best supplement with vitamin support
Glucose-CR is a combination product manufactured by Oweli. It contains an array of vitamins and minerals, as well as multiple herbal ingredients. This product does contain substances that have been shown to be beneficial in lowering blood glucose levels including chromium, cinnamon bark powder, vanadyl sulfate, and alpha-lipoic acid.
This product undergoes third-party testing to confirm the ingredients and protect against contamination. Oweli uses facilities complaint with the latest GMP to manufacture their product.
The manufacturer recommends a dosage of two capsules per day taken with an eight-ounce glass of water. A 30-day supply costs $27.99 and comes with a 100-day money-back guarantee.
4. ProHealth — best berberine supplement for blood sugar support
ProHealth Longevity's Berberine Pro is a dietary supplement designed to support anti-aging and blood sugar management.
With its potential to enhance bioavailability, Berberine Pro by ProHealth may be one of the most easily absorbed berberine products available. Additionally, the inclusion of alpha-lipoic acid is recognized for its role in maintaining blood sugar levels.
ProHealth Longevity commits to product quality through third-party lab testing, compliance with GMP standards, and production in FDA-registered facilities.
The product is packaged with 60 capsules per bottle with a manufacturer’s recommended dosage of 1 capsule daily.
A 60-day supply is priced at $29.95. Berberine Pro is accessible with complimentary shipping on USA orders exceeding $30.00. The company highlights its dedication to consumer trust with a 75-day refund policy.
5. Thrivous — best blood sugar and cholesterol lowering supplement
Vitality Geroprotector is a combination supplement that includes berberine, milk thistle, coenzyme Q10, and a blueberry fruit extract (Mirtoselect). The use of berberine and blueberry fruit extract has shown some potential in reducing blood sugar levels, while milk thistle may support liver health and coenzyme Q10 is important for energy production. Berberine may also reduce cholesterol levels adding another benefit to this supplement.
Vitality Geroprotector is third-party tested for purity and safety and is manufactured in facilities that are certified to be in compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
The manufacturer recommends a dosage of two capsules daily but cautions for a max of eight capsules per day. If using two capsules a day, a 30-day supply costs $45.90 with additional savings if the subscribe and save option is used. The first purchase comes with a 100-day money-back guarantee.
How we compiled the best supplements that lower blood sugar?
With many options on the market, deciding on the best supplement can be challenging. In addition, these supplements are not approved or regulated by the FDA. Therefore, we have used this list of criteria to help you identify high-quality supplements to potentially lower blood sugar levels.
Third-party testing | Scientific evidence | Value for money | Safety | Reputable manufacturer |
Confirms purity and content of product | Ingredients have research supporting their use | Number of servings per bottle | Data regarding the safe use of the product | Use of current good manufacturing practices (cGMPs) |
- Third-party testing. Use of an independent laboratory to test products ensuring their purity and lack of contaminants such as heavy metals, pesticides, and herbicides.
- Scientific evidence. The use of ingredients that have scientific evidence showing a benefit in lowering blood sugar levels can help ensure the product can improve glucose levels.
- Value for money. Supplements that provide an adequate number of servings per bottle can give you the most for your money.
- Safety. Reports on the side effects and safety profile of the product help to ensure the safe use when used as recommended.
- Reputable manufacturer. Products from manufacturers with a proven track record of providing high-quality products.
How can supplements help lower blood sugar?
Each ingredient has a unique mechanism that may help lower blood sugar levels which is why many products are offered on the market for blood sugar support. Supplements may include dietary fiber which can help to slow the absorption of sugars and prevent high peaks in glucose after a meal. This can help the body manage the carbohydrate load of the meal.
In addition, some supplements may help improve the body's sensitivity to insulin. Thus, when paired with diet and exercise, these supplements may help in the management of blood sugar levels.
What supplements lower blood sugar?
When selecting a supplement it is important to identify ingredients that have shown potential in reducing blood sugar levels. Below is a list of some ingredients that have been shown in small studies to lower blood sugar.
- Ceylon cinnamon. With less coumarin, this form of cinnamon provides a milder taste than cassia cinnamon and is the preferred option for people taking this supplement daily.
- Berberine. This natural plant product is a yellow, often bitter-tasting ingredient that may help with weight loss, blood sugar levels, and blood pressure.
- Chromium. This is an essential trace element that the body needs but is unable to produce, and it is thought to help enhance the effects of insulin which in turn may lower blood sugar levels.
- Vanadyl sulfate. This is a form of the trace element vanadium that may help increase insulin sensitivity and help manage blood sugar levels.
- Blueberry fruit extract. A powerful antioxidant, this concentrated blueberry extract may provide help by reducing insulin resistance and may help manage glucose levels.
- Beta-D-glucans. This compound is commonly found in the fruiting bodies of medicinal mushrooms and may improve glucose control when taken daily.
Although most studies are conducted on people with diabetes, the effect of using these supplements for general blood glucose support is not well established and may need a consultation with your physician.
Supplements vs. medications to lower blood sugar
Most supplements have limited evidence of their ability to lower blood sugar levels, whereas medications have been thoroughly studied in rigorous double-blind clinical studies that have proven their ability to lower blood sugar levels in diabetes. The studies available for the support of supplements are often shorter and utilize small groups of patients making it more difficult to fully endorse a supplement's ability to lower blood sugar levels.
Medications are FDA-regulated to ensure purity, dosage, and effectiveness, whereas supplements are not FDA-regulated. In addition, medications undergo testing to ensure their safe use and continue to undergo monitoring once they are approved for use. Supplements, on the other hand, may not have the same degree of safety studies.
Can blood sugar support supplements replace medication for diabetes?
Supplements that potentially lower blood sugar levels should never replace medications for diabetes unless directed by a doctor. In certain cases, patients are able to manage their blood sugar levels with the use of diet and exercise, and in these cases, supplements may help them achieve their blood sugar goals.
If supplements are used, your doctor can help direct the appropriate use and perform the necessary monitoring to ensure that blood sugar levels are being kept within acceptable ranges. Thus, have a discussion with your doctor before starting any supplement or attempting to stop any medication.
How to take blood sugar support supplements
When taking a blood sugar-lowering supplement, it is important to take it as recommended by the manufacturer. Taking more of a supplement than recommended can result in side effects. In addition to sticking to the recommendations, it is important to:
- Take oral capsules with a full glass of water to ensure they adequately pass through the esophagus.
- Mix powder supplements well and re-stir the liquid if slowly consumed to ensure it remains a mixture.
- Take blood sugar support supplements with meals.
- Store them in a cool, dry place when not taking them.
Can supplements also lower cholesterol levels?
Yes. Supplements can include a variety of ingredients that may lower blood sugar levels and cholesterol levels. In some cases, one ingredient may be able to help lower blood sugar levels as well as improve cholesterol levels. This may be beneficial in people who have both high cholesterol and are looking for ways to manage their blood glucose.
High cholesterol, high blood sugar levels, and high blood pressure are common in metabolic syndrome and are often targeted together to prevent complications. Obtaining adequate control of cholesterol and blood sugar levels can reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications such as narrowing of arteries, heart attacks, and strokes.
Berberine and alpha lipoic acid are examples of supplements that may help lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
Do blood sugar supplements have any side effects?
Yes. Even though supplements usually come from natural sources, when they are used in concentrated doses as in many supplements they can produce side effects, as well as drug interactions. In many studies, the side effect profile of the supplements discussed in this review was similar to that of placebo. The most common side effects include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Stomach upset
- Sleeping difficulties
- Fatigue
Some supplements, especially when taken in excess, can cause liver injury, low platelet counts, and kidney injuries. Therefore, it is important to discuss starting a supplement with your doctor or pharmacist to help minimize side effects and drug interactions.
Are there any dietary restrictions while using supplements to lower blood sugar?
No. There are no specific dietary restrictions when taking blood sugar lowering supplements.
It is recommended that people with diabetes or prediabetes follow a diabetes diet. This is a healthy diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Heart-healthy fish such as tuna and salmon should be incorporated to provide omega-3 fatty acids. Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated are preferred over saturated fats and can be found in nuts, avocados, and canola or olive oils.
Healthy meal choices in combination with low-sodium foods should make up the majority of a meal and the diet should include consistent meal times. A diabetes diet can help to manage blood sugar levels, as well as cholesterol levels.
More helpful information on diabetes
If you are looking for supplements to lower your blood sugar levels check best berberine supplements.
To improve your diet look for best greens powders.
For better cardiovascular health try best resveratrol supplements.
FAQ
What's the recommended dosage for blood sugar supplements?
Supplements aimed at lowering blood sugar levels can contain various ingredients based on the manufacturer's preferences. Thus, it is important to read the labeling and stick to the recommended dosage of each manufacturer. This will prevent taking too much of a supplement and reduce the risk of experiencing adverse effects.
How long does it take for supplements to help control blood sugar?
Adequate blood sugar control is performed using the Hgb A1c lab value. This provides an estimate of the average blood sugar level over the last three months. It can take three months to notice any improvements in your Hgb A1c. During daily testing, you may notice blood sugar reductions sooner.
Should I consult a doctor before taking blood sugar supplements?
Yes. It is important to discuss all supplements with your doctor before starting them. Supplements that lower blood sugar levels can cause one's blood sugar to drop too low, especially when also taking prescription medications for diabetes. Thus, starting a new supplement may require dosing adjustments of existing medications.
10 resources
- Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism. The potential of cinnamon to reduce blood glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance.
- Frontiers in Pharmacology. Diabetes and alpha lipoic acid.
- Journal of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics. Systematic review and meta-analysis of the efficacy and safety of chromium supplementation in diabetes.
- The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism. Vanadyl Sulfate Improves Hepatic and Muscle Insulin Sensitivity in Type 2 Diabetes.
- Journal of Ethnic Foods. Efficacy of ginger for treating Type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment. FAQ on coumarin in cinnamon and other foods.
- Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition. Effects of blueberry and cranberry consumption on type 2 diabetes glycemic control: A systematic review.
- Metabolism. Efficacy of berberine in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
- The Review of Diabetic Studies. The Therapeutic Potential of Milk Thistle in Diabetes.
- Frontiers in Bioscience. Clinical applications of coenzyme Q10.
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