You may have a sweet tooth that causes you to reach out for sugary treats even when you’re not hungry. Your sugar cravings might be due to stress, boredom, or exhaustion, but the negative effect of elevated blood sugar levels can have a negative impact on your health as a whole.
So, if you wish to cut your cravings to balance your blood sugar, lose weight and get in better shape, there are many supplements that you can add to your diet while reducing or eliminating processed sugar intake and incorporating more exercise into your routine.
The following are some supplements that can help cut cravings and balance blood sugar:
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is an extract or powder in its supplement form. Studies have shown that the consumption of cinnamon might help control blood sugar levels in people with prediabetes. This way, it prevents the onset of type 2 diabetes.
You can integrate cinnamon into your diet by sprinkling it on cereal or oatmeal, or you can add about a half teaspoon into your foods each day. Studies have shown that it is better to consume cinnamon in its whole form than in the form of tablets.
Gymnema
Gymnema is a good supplement that has been shown by research to cut sugar cravings. More so, it can lower the rate at which your body absorbs sugar. This plays a role in diabetes management and treatment.
One study observed the effect of Gymnema on patients with type 2 diabetes who were given 500 mg of this supplement for a period of three months. The result showed that the patients experienced lowered fasting blood sugar levels after meals.
You can take Gymnema in form of tea, an extract, or powder. Also, you can chew on the leaves of the Gymnema plant.
American Ginseng
American ginseng, which is also called Panax quinquefolius, is an herbal supplement that has been studied to help improve blood sugar levels. This supplement may improve your body’s secretion and response to insulin
One study conducted in people with type 2 diabetes showed a decrease in fasting blood sugar after taking 1 gram of American Ginseng 40 minutes before having breakfast, lunch, or dinner, for two months.
You can take this supplement two hours before each main meal.
Aloe vera
Aloe vera is also a good supplement that helps to lower blood sugar levels. The juice made from the leaves of this Cactus-like plant may help lower fasting blood sugar.
Aloe has been studied to stimulate the production of insulin in pancreatic cells. This way, the blood sugar level is regulated.
You can take this supplement in form of the aloe juice or capsules.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a useful vitamin that helps to strengthen your bones. It is naturally produced when your body is exposed to the sun’s rays. The deficiency of this vitamin can cause several negative effects, including a higher risk of type 2 diabetes.
Vitamin D supplement, however, has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood glucose levels. This reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes.
You can add vitamin D supplements to your diet to cut your cravings and keep your blood sugar level regulated. However, it is important to follow proper dosage instructions.
Other supplements that help cut cravings and balance blood sugar include:
- Magnesium
- Bitter melon
- Chromium
- Berberine
- Alpha-Lipoic acid
- Probiotics
While all of these supplements have been shown to be effective in cutting cravings and balancing blood sugar, you need to consult with your doctor before using an herbal supplement.
You can consult Dr. Jason Jones at our chiropractic office in Elizabeth City, NC, to learn about natural supplements that can be added to your diet to regulate your blood sugar levels and keep your cravings in check.
