The first supplement I want to talk about is berberine. This is one compound classified as alkaloids. It is normally extracted from the roots, bark, or stems of shrubs called berberis. Berberine promotes glucose uptake to the cells by activating AMPK or Adenosine Monophosphate Kinase. This enzyme is used in the cellular energy system.
What makes berberine so great is that it works on multiple different metabolic mechanisms. For one, it decreases insulin resistance. It increases glycolysis which helps break down sugar within the cells. It decreases sugar production in the liver. And it slows the breakdown of carbohydrates in the gut which means slower absorption of glucose.
Depending on your size you should aim for 1-2 grams of berberine daily. Most studies done on berberine showing significant results, patients were given at least 1 gram of berberine per day. This alkaloid is said to work as well as some pharmaceutical drugs and is obviously a much safer route to go.
The main mineral I want to focus on is chromium. Chromium plays an essential role in regulating blood glucose because it assists in enhancing the function of insulin. Chromium, like berberine activates AMPK which regulates metabolism. There are numerous studies concluding that chromium promotes insulin sensitivity. You should take about 60 mcg per day. That is roughly half the recommended daily intake. This should be a no-brainer supplement for your diabetic defense arsenal. It is also very inexpensive.
And yes, I didn’t forget about cinnamon. This is probably the most well-known supplement for combating insulin resistance. But there are still many people that don’t know about ceylon cinnamon. This is considered the “true” cinnamon even though it is not the common form found in grocery stores. That would be cinnamon cassia. The cassia species is a low quality cinnamon that is very high in coumarin which can lead to liver toxicity. Ceylon on the other hand is a high quality and highly prized spice.
Cinnamon has been shown time after time to have anti-diabetic and blood sugar controlling effects. This is thanks in part to a compound it contains called cinnamtannin b1 which exhibits insulin like biological activities and antioxidant properties. The main rule of thumb with cinnamon is to find the ceylon type and shoot for 300 mg per day with meals. Preferably split it up into 3 100 mg doses throughout the day.
Finally, I will touch on the fat soluble vitamins that promote insulin sensitivity. These would be vitamins A,D, and K2. Vitamin A increases the activity of insulin receptors within cells. Cells within the pancreas called beta cells are responsible for creating insulin. They happen to have a large quantity of cell surface receptors for vitamin A. There is an undeniable correlation between diabetes and vitamin A deficiency.
Vitamin D and K2 work to improve calcium metabolism. This is important imbalances of calcium is correlated with insulin resistance and abnormal beta cell functioning. It’s best to get vitamin A from animal products but if you choose a supplement, go with the retinol form for better bioavailability.
The vitamin D and K2 supplement I personally take is right here. They work synergistically, so take them together if you can. I always prefer liposomal sprays for absorption over the pills. Since these are fat soluble they will store up in your body so be aware of how much you are consuming. Don’t megadose these vitamins for more than one or two days. It’s usually safest just to follow the recommended serving on the label.
With a solid regimen of consistently taking the berberine, chromium, and ceylon cinnamon. And making sure your aren’t deficient in the fat soluble vitamins. Your chances of reversing insulin resistance are astronomically better. Not only will your blood glucose levels be better regulated but things like metabolism and cardiovascular health are also going to be improved. Wouldn’t it be nice to enjoy sweets again, and not have to worry about it costing you a foot?
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