Is There A Natural Way to Lower Blood Glucose?

Q. I am a type 2 diabetic on 500mg Metformin a day, is there a natural form that I can take to lower my blood glucose? - Debbie

A: Blood glucose levels can effectively be managed and even reduced with dietary interventions and exercise; in fact, exercise is perhaps the best approach. Follow a low-glycemic diet that includes a minimum of 25 g of fiber and protein at each meal. Fresh lemon juice and cinnamon have been shown to lower blood sugar. Siberian, Panax and American ginseng, fenugreek, ginger, bitter melon and turmeric are all known to balance blood glucose as well. As far as supplementation, a chromium supplement can improve insulin activity and reduce insulin resistance. Ensure that protein is present at each meal/snack (avoid eating only carbs at any one meal) and if necessary, incorporate a protein powder (hemp, whey, goat whey, soy or rice protein). For example, add a scoop of protein powder to a pancake or muffin mix to reduce the GI value.