High blood sugar, also called hyperglycemia, occurs when the body does not have enough insulin or is unable to utilize the insulin that is present, says the American Diabetes Association. Individuals with diabetes may have high blood sugars, or blood glucose levels, for various reasons, but it is important to control these levels to avoid medical complications. Some supplements have been shown to help control high blood sugar, but may not work for everyone. If you have high blood sugar, talk with your physician about whether supplements are appropriate for your condition.
Fiber
Fiber supplements do more than help regulate bowel movements and control weight; fiber can also help regular blood sugars. According MayoClinic.com, fiber -- especially soluble fiber -- can slow the body's absorption of sugar, which can help control blood sugar levels, especially for those with diabetes. You can take psyllium tablets or psyllium powders mixed with fluids to get added fiber. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that psyllium may also reduce the risk of developing diabetes in at-risk individuals.
Magnesium
Magnesium is a mineral that is crucial for every organ in the body, and is involved in the makeup of teeth and bones. Most people get the magnesium they need through diet, and a deficiency is rare. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, many individuals with Type 2 diabetes have low blood levels of magnesium, and consuming more magnesium may help lower the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Some research has found that this mineral can also help regulate blood sugar levels and insulin sensitivity in individuals with prediabetes or diabetes, says the University of Maryland.
Ginseng
Ginseng is known for its antioxidant and stimulating effects, but it may help control high blood sugar levels as well. Both Asian and American ginseng have been shown to lower high blood sugar levels, although some study results have been mixed, says the University of Maryland. Depending on the type of ginseng, it may affect your blood sugar levels differently. If you have diabetes, it is best to check with your physician before using any type of ginseng.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is more than a sweet addition to drinks or cookies; it has also been shown to provide health benefits. According to a 2003 study in the journal "Diabetes Care," individuals with Type 2 diabetes taking cinnamon had lower blood sugars, triglycerides and total cholesterol levels than those individuals who took a placebo. Drugs.com states that cinnamon may have an insulin-like quality that helps the body process glucose, but studies have been mixed and more research is necessary.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Dietary Fiber: Essential for a healthy diet
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Magnesium
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Asian Ginseng
- PubMed.gov: "Diabetes Care": Cinnamon improves glucose and lipids of people with type 2 diabetes; A Kahn et al; 2003
- Drugs.com: Complete Cinnamon Information
- American Diabetes Association: Hyperglycemia
