Spices to Lower Blood Sugar

Did you know that some common spices that may help to lower the blood sugar.  Prescription meds are becoming more and more expensive and dangerous, so isn’t it time to find some alternative products that might help us in managing our blood sugar levels without breaking us?  There are millions of adults who are diagnosed with diabetes each year, with the number expected to grow over the next decade.  Even though adapting a lifestyle filled with physical activity, moderate food portions and low consumption of sugar, we can still watch the diet and use some alternative options as with the consumption of herbs and spices to control this condition.

I am going to list some of the suggestions in lowering your blood sugar through spices, but before making any lifestyle changes, be sure to consult with your doctor and discuss your health goals and desires.

• Cinnamon is a common spice often used with sugar.  A 2011 study on glucose levels found that whole cinnamon and its extract were shown to significantly reduce the fasting blood glucose levels.
• Garlic extract, in a 2012 study, reports that its regular use led to a significant reduction in blood glucose levels.
• Avocado extract contains monounsaturated fatty acids as the main ingredient, which is the good source of fats we need.  These fats have proven to improve fasting blood glucose levels and to reduce insulin resistance.
• Almond extracts similar to the avocado, nuts and almonds that contain a high level of healthy fats. Try a handful of almonds as a snack between meals, but remember that nuts do contain a lot of calories per serving.
• Dried blueberries/blueberry extract is recommended by many nutrition specialists, for various health issues. With their dark color it means they provide antioxidants and other compounds you do not find with other colored fruits and vegetables. They are known for improving insulin sensitivity. Blueberries are available in powder form as well.
• Ginger will sooth your stomach and digestion, even though it is not known for its blood glucose leveling properties. Check with your doctor though, because taking ginger and medication could cause your body’s glucose to drop too low.
• Turmeric is a common spice used in curry powder, which contains curcumin.  They have both been found to reduce hemoglobin A1C levels.
• Cherries are loaded with flavor and anthocyanins. Women who consumed diets that were high in anthocyanins from cherries, had less systemic inflammation and a marked improvement in insulin resistance.
• Cayenne is spicy hot but can help melt away glucose in the blood after a meal. The blood sugar can be reduced and lowered up to two hours after a meal of eating cayenne spice.  Be careful if you are sensitive to spicy foods.
• Oregano is one of the favorite Italian spices and glucosides within the oregano leaves can help to reduce and lower blood sugar at a significant rate.
• Marjoram is a dried herb that is used in many dishes and is high in polyphenols. These are compounds that are important for controlling blood glucose levels.
• Sage can have an important glucose lowering effect similar to the effects of metformin among diabetics.

If you are striving to keep your blood sugar within the appropriate limits, try using these spices and herbs as often as recommended, and possibly prevent or reduce the use of medications in controlling your A1C.  Because cancer thrives on sugar, lowering your blood sugar may help protect you from cancer.

Dr Fredda Branyon