Nutrients That Support Blood Sugar Metabolism
Supplements to Help Optimize Blood Sugar Metabolism
It’s estimated that elevated blood sugar issues affect 110 million Americans. “These statistics tell us that a considerable number of patients in general family practice—at least one in every three—will benefit from metabolic and blood sugar support,” explained naturopathic doctor, author, and blood sugar expert Mona Morstein, ND, in a recent issue of Element magazine.
Once Dr. Morstein determines there is a blood sugar issue, she will counsel patients about eating low-carb as a new lifestyle. According to a 2018 review published in the journal PLoS One, a low carb diet is highly recommended for patients with glucose metabolism issues. In addition, a low carb diet has been shown to help patients lose weight and maintain normal body weight, which in turn helps normalize blood sugar levels. Dr. Morstein has found in her clinical practice that “the low-carb diet supports appetite control in as little as one week.”
Dr. Morstein also recommends dietary supplements and has identified these as her top five to consider for patients who need help supporting healthy glucose metabolism:
- A multivitamin and mineral
- High quality fish oil
- Fiber
- Probiotics
- Combination product specifically for blood sugar support
- Other supplements as needed based on patient individuality
“Supplementation serves so many purposes,” explained Dr. Morstein. For example, “magnesium, zinc, chromium, and omega-3 fatty acids are all needed for healthy insulin function and glucose metabolism. Studies show that people with elevated blood sugar often have deficiencies in one or more of these nutrients.”
Many specialty blood sugar support supplements contain these and other foundational nutrients for supporting healthy glucose metabolism. Some botanicals have been shown to support healthy pancreatic function, which is important for maintaining healthy blood sugar levels already in the normal range. Herbal extracts such as American Ginseng, milk thistle and berberine, also help support healthy glucose metabolism. Nutrients and herbs can work synergistically to help support blood sugar balance already in the normal range in a comprehensive manner.
For Dr. Morstein, it’s all about keeping things manageable so her patients can be successful using her individualized integrative protocols. “Following an organized step-by-step approach is the best way to ensure compliance from our patients,” said Dr. Morstein. She also said that when she focuses on making things less overwhelming for the patient, she gets the best outcomes. “When you open people’s eyes to a world they never knew before, they are so appreciative. They start to lose weight, they have more energy, they see their blood sugars come into balance, and they are happy,” she said. “An integrative program of appropriate diet, lifestyle, and dietary supplements can really make a difference.”