The 9 Best Natural Alternatives To Metformin

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Key Information

Metformin is a popular drug for diabetes

It lowers blood sugar levels, slows down aging, and prevents complications.

Metformin has some drawbacks and side effects

It may cause gastrointestinal issues, allergic reactions, or interactions with other drugs.

Natural alternatives can help regulate blood sugar

Supplements, diets, exercise, and light therapy can improve insulin sensitivity and glycemic control.

Natural alternatives may have additional benefits

They may also reduce inflammation, cholesterol, weight, and oxidative stress.

Affiliate Disclosure: Holistic Nootropics may earn affiliate commissions if you purchase through the links on this page. Here's how it works.

Hey there, welcome to my round-up of the 9 Best Natural Metformin Alternatives!

Ever felt the need to embrace nature’s solutions in managing diabetes?

If you’ve been tirelessly searching for an all-natural alternative to Metformin, you’re in the right place.

I’ve spent hours combing the literature and testing products to help folks like you discover the most promising natural supplements for blood sugar regulation.

Each of the following supplements and biohacks is proven to boost your body’s ability to utilize glucose, regulate blood sugar, and help you optimize your overall health with little to no side effects.

Some of the compounds mentioned in this article have been clinically studied against Metformin and have shown comparable or even superior results.

In short, there are many natural ways to control metabolic health.

So if you’re ready to discover nature’s best Metformin alternatives, read on and enjoy!

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What are the Best Natural Alternatives to Metformin in March 2024 – Quick Answers

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The steep rise in diabetes worldwide has earned this chronic hormonal condition the badge of being an epidemic. It is a condition that transcends age, gender, and race. Hence, resulting in its increasing prevalence over the decades. Because of this global burden and the significant impact of diabetes, several drugs are present that control this disease. However, to better understand the therapies that treat diabetes, we need to understand the basics of this condition.1Ann Marie Schmidt, Highlighting Diabetes Mellitus Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology. 2018

What Is Metformin?

Since it hit the market, Metformin has become one of the top prescription medications for controlling type 2 diabetes, ranking as the fourth most commonly prescribed medication in the United States, with more than 80 million prescriptions written yearly.

It has a low-risk safety profile with minimal side effects.

Multiple studies also demonstrate that Metformin has a positive effect on overall wellness by modulating mitochondrial function and exhibiting anti-inflammatory effects.

Many in the biohacking community use it specifically for anti-aging purposes.

That being said, many people want the benefits of Metformin but prefer a more natural alternative.

This article will provide some natural alternatives to Metformin and how Metformin may be beneficial even if you don’t have diabetes or other health issues.

A brief history of Metformin

Metformin is a derivative of galegine, a natural plant product of the French lilac, Galega Officinalis. 

For centuries, particularly in medieval Europe, this French lilac was one of the herbal medicines used to treat diabetes. 

Metformin belongs to the group of oral diabetes drugs known as biguanides. 

Biguanides are synthetic derivatives of galegine, whose function is to lower glucose levels in the blood. 

Metformin is the only biguanide widely used today. 

The use of remaining biguanides has been discontinued due to their toxic effects.2Graham Rena, D. Grahame Hardie, and Ewan R. Pearson, The mechanisms of action of metformin Diabetologia. 2017

How Does Metformin Work?

  • Reduces blood sugar levels by decreasing its production by the liver
  • Acts on your gut to reduce the uptake of glucose from the food you consume
  • Enhances the action of insulin on suppressing the production of glucose by the cells and tissues of the body
  • Improves sensitivity to insulin and reduces its resistance

Other Uses Of Metformin 

In addition to treating diabetes mellitus, Metformin has several indications such as:

  • To prevent diabetes and for pre-diabetic individuals
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A Quick Primer On Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes Mellitus is a chronic hormonal condition that results in high blood sugar levels.

But why is it considered a hormonal condition?

Because, well, this is all a tango between the hormone insulin and sugar levels in the blood.

Blood Glucose Levels

When we consume food, the body breaks it down into many components ultimately, producing glucose (sugar). And the primary function of glucose is to provide our body with energy. 

But, when you consume excess food, the pancreas will sense a spike in blood glucose levels and respond by producing insulin. Insulin will then pack up the excess glucose and store them in the cells and tissues of the body.

Diabetes mellitus type 2 occurs when the pancreas is unable or insufficiently produces insulin.

Insulin sensitivity vs. Insulin resistance

These are two terms that you may come across quite frequently. 

Insulin resistance occurs when the cells and tissues of the body become resistant to the signals from insulin. 

Overflowing and tired with a surplus of glucose, the cells and tissues begin to ignore when insulin knocks on their door. 

Insulin resistance is a prediabetic state, meaning that if this condition persists, it can result in type 2 diabetes mellitus. 

On the other hand, insulin sensitivity is a condition in which the cells and tissues readily respond to insulin’s visit. 

Maintaining optimal glucose levels in the body requires a balance between these two insulin states.

Those on the path to diabetes mellitus are most likely insulin resistant. 

And the only way to turn back towards health is to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce insulin resistance. 

Easy, Natural Methods For Reducing Insulin Resistance

Exercise

Exercise is an inexpensive and convenient non-pharmacological modality that prevents and treats type 2 diabetes mellitus. But there are many forms of exercises out there; which one should you do?

Moderate to high-intensity exercises improve insulin sensitivity, either through the increase in glucose uptake by tissues during exercise or due to a decline in insulin resistance through weight loss.3Benjamin J Ryan , Michael W Schleh , Cheehoon Ahn , Alison C Ludzki , Jenna B Gillen , Pallavi Varshney , Douglas W Van Pelt , Lisa M Pitchford , Thomas L Chenevert ,Rachel A Gioscia-Ryan, Suzette M Howton , Thomas Rode , Scott L Hummel, Charles F Burant, Jonathan P Little , Jeffrey F Horowitz, Moderate-Intensity Exercise and High-Intensity Interval Training Affect Insulin Sensitivity Similarly in Obese Adults J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 20204A Sampath Kumar , Arun G Maiya , B A Shastry , K Vaishali , N Ravishankar, Animesh Hazari , Shubha Gundmi , Radhika Jadhav, Exercise and insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis Ann Phys Rehabil Med. 2019

Many studies reveal that aerobic exercise and resistance training (a form of anaerobic exercise) reduce blood glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Specific investigations demonstrate that a multicomponent exercise program effectively reduces cardiovascular risks in individuals with early type 2 diabetes. 

This program consists of aerobic and resistance training and training in balance and flexibility.5Liliana C. Baptista,Aristides M. Machado-Rodrigues, and Raul A. Martins, Back to basics with active lifestyles: exercise is more effective than metformin to reduce cardiovascular risk in older adults with type 2 diabetes Biol Sport. 20186Alistair Lumb, Diabetes and exercise Clin Med (Lond). 20147Bei Pan, Long Ge , Yang-Qin Xun , Ya-Jing Chen , Cai-Yun Gao , Xue Han , Li-Qian Zuo , Hou-Qian Shan , Ke-Hu Yang , Guo-Wu Ding , Jin-Hui Tian, Exercise training modalities in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and network meta-analysis Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act. 2018

However, the American Diabetes Association recommends that adults with diabetes participate in moderate-intensity physical activity at least three times a week, dedicating at least 150 minutes to exercising.

Other benefits of exercise include:

  • Improved cardiovascular health by increasing the levels of good cholesterol
  • Enhanced mood due to the release of endorphins
  • Better joint health thus reducing the risk of joint disease such as osteoarthritis
  • Better sleep
  • Increased energy and metabolism

Healthy diet

We all know by now that a healthy diet is the first line of defense to reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes and to treating this ailment.

The objective of a healthy diet is that it will contain a balanced proportion of all three major food groups; carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.

Several specific diets demonstrate the ability to increase insulin sensitivity in overweight adults.

Plant-based and Mediterranean diets show much promise in diabetic patients.

At the same time, many people are finding success with more low-carbohydrate, higher-fat diets.8Hana Kahleova, Emilie Rembert , Jihad Alwarith , Willy N Yonas , Andrea Tura , Richard Holubkov , Melissa Agnello , Robynne Chutkan , Neal D Barnard, Effects of a Low-Fat Vegan Diet on Gut Microbiota in Overweight Individuals and Relationships with Body Weight, Body Composition, and Insulin Sensitivity. A Randomized Clinical Trial Nutrients. 20209Maria Mirabelli , Diego Russo , Antonio Brunetti, The Role of Diet on Insulin Sensitivity Nutrients. 2020

Keto/Paleo Diet

The ketogenic diet has been captivating the world for the past several years.

This low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet ensures no glucose available to the body for energy production. 

As a result of a decline in glucose availability, two processes occur; gluconeogenesis and ketosis.

In gluconeogenesis, the liver will utilize non-carbohydrate sources (such as fat) to produce energy. In ketogenesis, the body will break down fats for energy. 

The cumulative effects of these two processes result in weight loss. 

Additionally, the keto diet will also improve fasting glucose and lipid levels in the blood.10Fred Brouns, Overweight and diabetes prevention: is a low-carbohydrate-high-fat diet recommendable?Eur J Nutr. 201811Xiaojie Yuan, Jiping Wang, Shuo Yang, Mei Gao, Lingxia Cao, Xumei Li, Dongxu Hong, Suyan Tian, and Chenglin Sun, Effect of the ketogenic diet on glycemic control, insulin resistance, and lipid metabolism in patients with T2DM: a systematic review and meta-analysis Nutr Diabetes. 2020

The paleo diet is a high-protein and low-fat diet. 

Research shows that this diet promotes metabolic balance by improving the sensitivity to insulin and glycemic control in type 2 diabetics. 

It also improves cardiovascular health by decreasing lipid levels and reducing blood pressure.12Tommy Jönsson , Yvonne Granfeldt, Bo Ahrén, Ulla-Carin Branell, Gunvor Pålsson, Anita Hansson, Margareta Söderström, Staffan Lindeberg, Beneficial effects of a Paleolithic diet on cardiovascular risk factors in type 2 diabetes: a randomized cross-over pilot study Cardiovasc Diabetol. 200913Julia Otten , Andreas Stomby , Maria Waling , Andreas Isaksson, Anna Tellström , Lillemor Lundin-Olsson , Søren Brage , Mats Ryberg , Michael Svensson, Tommy Olsson, Benefits of a Paleolithic diet with and without supervised exercise on fat mass, insulin sensitivity, and glycemic control: a randomized controlled trial in individuals with type 2 diabetes Diabetes Metab Res Rev. 2017

Adequate Sleep

Insufficient sleep has been linked to an increased risk of obesity and imbalance in glucose and insulin levels.

Improving sleep hygiene and maintaining an optimized circadian rhythm will enhance insulin sensitivity, thus decreasing the risk of type 2 diabetes.14Sirimon Reutrakul , Eve Van Cauter, Sleep influences on obesity, insulin resistance, and risk of type 2 diabetes Metabolism. 201815Dorit Koren , Elsie M Taveras, Association of sleep disturbances with obesity, insulin resistance and the metabolic syndrome Metabolism. 2018

Intermittent fasting

In addition to aiding in weight loss, intermittent fasting also has anti-inflammatory effects and benefits the gut microbiome.

Intermittent fasting increases the responsiveness of the pancreatic cells and improves appetite, sensitivity to insulin, and blood pressure.16Elizabeth F Sutton, Robbie Beyl, Kate S Early , William T Cefalu , Eric Ravussin , Courtney M Peterson, Early Time-Restricted Feeding Improves Insulin Sensitivity, Blood Pressure, and Oxidative Stress Even without Weight Loss in Men with Prediabetes Cell Metab. 201817Mary-Catherine Stockman , Dylan Thomas, Jacquelyn Burke , Caroline M Apovian, Intermittent Fasting: Is the Wait Worth the Weight? Curr Obes Rep. 2018

Reduce mental and physical stress

When the body is under stress, it will release the stress hormone cortisol.

As a result, cortisol will increase glucose production and induce fat accumulation, further exacerbating the body’s resistance to insulin.18Yu-Xiang Yan, Huan-Bo Xiao,Si-Si Wang, Jing Zhao, Yan He, Wei Wang, and Jing Dong, Investigation of the Relationship Between Chronic Stress and Insulin Resistance in a Chinese Population J Epidemiol. 2016

Health Consequences Of Poor Blood Sugar Regulation

Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is a constellation of factors that increase cardiometabolic diseases. These factors include:

  • Obesity
  • Resistance to insulin
  • Increase in blood pressure
  • Imbalance in the lipid levels of the body

Typically, two or more factors are present in a person dealing with metabolic syndrome.

Untreated metabolic syndrome increases the risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.19Isabelle Lemieux, Jean-Pierre Després , Metabolic Syndrome: Past, Present and Future Nutrients. 202020Abhishek Gupta, Vani Gupta, Metabolic syndrome: what are the risks for humans? Biosci Trends. 2010

Cardiovascular Disease

The science on CVD demonstrates a clear link between poor blood sugar regulation and the increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.

One of the most common causes of death in diabetes is cardiac disease.

Consistently elevated blood glucose increases the deposition of fat within the blood vessels. 

As a result, this impedes blood flow to the vital organs, including the heart.

Thus, increasing the risk of coronary artery disease and heart failure.21Ashkan Zand , Karim Ibrahim , Bhargavi Patham, Prediabetes: Why Should We Care? Methodist Debakey Cardiovasc J. Oct-Dec 201822Ben Brannick, Sam Dagogo-Jack , Prediabetes and Cardiovascular Disease: Pathophysiology and Interventions for Prevention and Risk Reduction Endocrinol Metab Clin North Am. 2018

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Over the years, the prevalence of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) has increased steadily.

This menstrual disorder is a cause for concern as one significant complication of PCOS is infertility.

The mechanism of how PCOS develops is unknown.

However, multiple factors contribute to PCOS, and one of them is its complex link to insulin.23Sylwia Bednarska , Agnieszka Siejka, The pathogenesis and treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome: What’s new? Adv Clin Exp Med. Mar-Apr 2017

Poor blood sugar regulation in women with PCOS increases insulin levels and insulin resistance.

In addition to increasing the risk of infertility, other complications of PCOS include:

  • Excessive body hair growth
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Heart disease
  • Increase in blood pressure
  • Obesity

Mental Health

Mental health is a component that is often disregarded when it comes to diabetes.

Chronically elevated sugar levels can also influence neurochemical (such as serotonin or dopamine) secretion.

Research shows that about one-third of people with diabetes have mental health issues that impair their ability to control their blood sugar adequately.

Evidence also shows that diabetes doubles the risk of comorbid depression.24Chris Garrett , Anne Doherty, Diabetes and mental health Clin Med (Lond). 201425Michael Vallis , Tricia Tang , Gerri Klein, Mental Health in Diabetes: Never a Better Time Can J Diabetes. 2020

Not to mention all that is involved in managing diabetes can be stressful and may take a toll on an individual’s mental health. From constantly calibrating meals to regularly checking glucose levels, avoiding this headache can naturally lower stress levels.

Other complications of diabetes

Consistently elevated glucose levels damage the nerves and blood vessels of the body, resulting in the development of chronic irreversible conditions. 

These include:26Konstantinos Papatheodorou, Maciej Banach, Michael Edmonds, Nikolaos Papanas, and Dimitrios Papazoglou, Complications of Diabetes J Diabetes Res. 2015

  • Eye problems such as cataract, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy
  • Elevated cholesterol, which increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, peripheral artery disease
  • Kidney disease (diabetic nephropathy)
  • Nerve damage (peripheral neuropathy, delayed gastric emptying)
  • Diabetic foot ulcers (due to delayed wound healing)

Delayed or improper treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus complications has dire consequences. 

For example, one of the leading causes of amputation is diabetic foot. 

Another disability that can arise due to uncontrolled diabetes is blindness due to cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy.27Cheng-Wei Lin,David G Armstrong, Chia-Hung Lin, Pi-Hua Liu, Shih-Yuan Hung, Shu-Ru Lee, Chung-Huei Huang, and Yu-Yao Huang, Nationwide trends in the epidemiology of diabetic foot complications and lower-extremity amputation over an 8-year period BMJ Open Diabetes Res Care. 201928Ryan Lee, Tien Y. Wong, and Charumathi Sabanayagam, Epidemiology of diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema and related vision loss Eye Vis (Lond). 2015

These complications only arise when levels of glucose are uncontrollable. 

Thus, to control glucose levels, the first line of defense is lifestyle changes, such as losing weight and exercising.

But at times, these efforts are not enough, and you may need to turn to medications for help. 

Metformin And Blood Sugar Regulation

Metformin treatment accurately regulates sugar in the blood without causing overt hypoglycemia.

And by lowering fasting insulin levels, Metformin also improves the body’s sensitivity to insulin.

Studies show that oral intake of Metformin can sharply lower blood sugar levels because it reduces the uptake of sugar by the gut.

However, the long-term effect of Metformin in regulating blood sugar levels depends upon its specific activity in various organs and tissues, particularly the muscles and liver.29Olga Horakova, Petra Kroupova , Kristina Bardova, Jana Buresova , Petra Janovska , Jan Kopecky , Martin Rossmeisl, Metformin acutely lowers blood glucose levels by inhibition of intestinal glucose transport Sci Rep. 2019

Metformin and Longevity

An unsuspecting perk of consuming Metformin is that it may slow down aging and prolong an individual’s lifespan.

Many different studies show that Metformin improves several indicators of healthspan, such as reducing the incidence of age-related diseases and most age-related cancers.

Chronic treatment with Metformin will also reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia in people with diabetes.

The anti-aging effects of Metformin are not precisely known, but it does mitigate some characteristics of aging, such as:

  • Enhancing autophagy (a process in which a damaged cell would self-destruct)
  • Delaying stem cell aging
  • Protecting against molecular damage

In summary, Metformin targets aging-related pathways, thus extending lifespan and health span. 

This advantage of using Metformin has also been observed in healthy, non-diabetic individuals.30Ameya S Kulkarni , Sriram Gubbi , Nir Barzilai, Benefits of Metformin in Attenuating the Hallmarks of Aging Cell Metab. 202031Alexander A Soukas , Haibin Hao , Lianfeng Wu, Metformin as Anti-Aging Therapy: Is It for Everyone? Trends Endocrinol Metab. 201932Marta G. Novelle, Ahmed Ali, Carlos Diéguez, Michel Bernier, and Rafael de Cabo, Metformin: A Hopeful Promise in Aging Research Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med. 201633Ameya S Kulkarni, Sriram Gubbi , Nir Barzilai, Benefits of Metformin in Attenuating the Hallmarks of Aging Cell Metab. 2020

Making Lifestyle Changes Vs Using Metformin

Lifestyle changes are the first line of defense against type 2 diabetes, whereas, Metformin is the first drug healthcare providers prescribe to a diabetic or prediabetic patient.

But which one is better?

A study found that lifestyle intervention was more effective than Metformin in regulating glucose levels in the blood.

Being overweight or obese is a vital risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes.

For this reason, long-term weight loss through lifestyle intervention reduces the incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus in high-risk populations.

On the other hand, Metformin has additional benefits such as cardiovascular and neuroprotective effects.

For this reason, the cumulative effects of lifestyle changes and Metformin are greater than their individual effects.34William C Knowler, Elizabeth Barrett-Connor, Sarah E Fowler, Richard F Hamman, John M Lachin, Elizabeth A Walker, David M Nathan, Diabetes Prevention Program Research Group, Reduction in the incidence of type 2 diabetes with lifestyle intervention or metformin N Engl J Med. 200235John W Apolzan , Elizabeth M Venditti , Sharon L Edelstein , William C Knowler, Dana Dabelea , Edward J Boyko , Xavier Pi-Sunyer , Rita R Kalyani , Paul W Franks ,Preethi Srikanthan , Kishore M Gadde, Diabetes Prevention Program Research Group, Long-Term Weight Loss With Metformin or Lifestyle Intervention in the Diabetes Prevention Program Outcomes StudyAnn Intern Med. 201936Diabetes Prevention Program Research Group, Long-term effects of lifestyle intervention or metformin on diabetes development and microvascular complications over 15-year follow-up: the Diabetes Prevention Program Outcomes Study Lancet Diabetes Endocrinol. 2015

Metformin Side Effects

Despite a seemingly good safety profile, some common side effects of Metformin can be bothersome.37James Flory , Kasia Lipska, Metformin in 2019 JAMA. 2019

  • Gastrointestinal side effects include stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, gas, heartburn, metallic taste in the mouth, etc.
  • Dry mouth
  • Frequent urination
  • Pain in muscles, fatigue

Serious, but not all that common side effects include:

  • Lactic acidosis 
  • Allergic reaction to the components of Metformin (another side effect that is often overlooked)
  • Hypoglycemic levels (mainly if used with other drugs)

Metformin is a commonly prescribed oral anti-diabetic drug that is the mainstay of treatment. 

It is the first medication that your healthcare provider will prescribe to you. 

Yet, if your glucose levels are not within normal range despite prescribed Metformin, your healthcare provider may add a new medication to the current one. 

It is pretty standard for healthcare professionals to prescribe different medications to manage type 2 diabetes. 

However, taking Metformin along with new medications puts you at a higher risk for side effects. 

So, that being the case, let us look at some metformin alternatives.

Top natural alternatives to Metformin – March 2024

Despite its low risk, taking Metformin might not be optimal for many people.

Although it comes with a low side effect profile, there are some drawbacks. 

Metformin use is contraindicated in diabetic patients with kidney disease, liver disease, or cardiovascular disease. 

Many folks just generally like to avoid pharmaceutical drugs, and many of these alternatives come with extra benefits. 

For this reason, let us take a look at some natural alternatives. 

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Berberine is a plant salt isolated from various plants, such as Coptis or Goldthread, Goldenseal, Oregon grape, Tree Turmeric, and Barberry.

For centuries, berberine was used as herbal medicine in traditional medicine in China and Ayurvedic medicine in India.

Berberine has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity and commonly was used for gastrointestinal infections such as diarrhea.1Bing Pang , Lin-Hua Zhao , Qiang Zhou , Tian-Yu Zhao , Han Wang , Cheng-Juan Gu , Xiao-Lin Tong , Application of berberine on treating type 2 diabetes mellitus Int J Endocrinol. 2015

Its blood glucose-lowering properties were coincidentally discovered in 1980 while being researched as a potential therapy for gut infections.

Since then, several studies have shown that berberine effectively lowers glucose levels in individuals with diabetes mellitus type 2.2Jun Yin , Huili Xing, Jianping Ye, Efficacy of berberine in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus Metabolism. 2008

So, how does berberine work?

  • improves the body’s insulin sensitivity its secretion by the pancreas
  • increases the uptake of glucose by the cells for energy production

Moreover, berberine also lowers cholesterol levels in the body.

Fat accumulation plays a role in type 2 diabetes mellitus development.

By decreasing the levels of bad cholesterol and increasing the good cholesterol level, berberine will prevent the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus and prevent its complications.

Consequently, this makes berberine a great alternative treatment for diabetes.3Yunfeng Han , Yunan Xiang , Yi Shi , Xi Tang , Lin Pan , Jie Gao , Ruohong Bi , Xianrong Lai , Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacological Activities of Berberine in Diabetes Mellitus Treatment Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2021


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Photobiomodulation uses red to near-infrared light as a form of therapy.

It is a non-invasive physical therapy used in regenerative medicine, dermatology, ophthalmology, and neurology.

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Regulate blood sugar levels with ketosis

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  • Boosts ketogenesis and detoxification by the liver

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Keto diet has numerous benefits other than weight loss.

The main benefit of a keto diet is that it helps to regulate blood sugar levels. This is because the diet forces the body to burn fat for energy, rather than glucose.

As a result, ketosis helps to stabilize blood sugar levels and can even reverse diabetes.

Kapex Keto is a supplement that has been designed to help people follow a keto diet. The supplement contains beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), which is an exogenous ketone that helps to induce ketosis.

In addition, Kapex Keto also contains MCT oil, which is a type of fat that is metabolized quickly and used for energy. Taken together, these ingredients can help to support a healthy keto diet and may even help to reverse diabetes.


Boost your insulin sensitivity

N-acetylcysteine (NAC)

  • NAC has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, lower blood sugar levels and HbA1c (a measure of average blood sugar levels over time) in people with type 2 diabetes.

  • It does this by helping the body to release more of its own insulin, and also by increasing the cells’ ability to use that insulin effectively.

  • NAC may also help protect the beta cells in the pancreas that produce insulin.

  • This could mean that NAC might help delay or prevent the development of type 2 diabetes in people who are at risk for it.

N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a supplement that has a variety of potential health benefits.

One of these is its ability to help lower blood sugar levels. Studies have shown that NAC can help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce fasting blood sugar levels. It may also help to lower A1C levels, which is a measure of long-term blood sugar control.

In addition, NAC has been shown to reduce the risk of some complications of diabetes, such as kidney damage and nerve damage.

Therefore, if you are struggling to keep your blood sugar under control, NAC may be worth considering as a natural supplement.


Improve glycemic control with magnesium

Magnesium

Magnesium
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Shop NowUse code: HOLISTICNOOTROPICS to save 10%
  • Magnesium is a mineral that is necessary for human life.

  • Magnesium helps the body to regulate blood sugar levels.

  • Magnesium can help people with diabetes control their blood sugar levels.

  • Magnesium is safe and easy to take, and does not have any major side effects

Pros

  • Includes the 7 most effective forms of magnesium
  • Highly credible manufacturer
  • No added fillers, preservatives, or unnecessary ingredients
  • Free shipping and discounts are available

Cons

  • Underdosed for specific magnesium type you may want

Magnesium deficiency has been implicated in various metabolic disorders, such as obesity and diabetes mellitus.12Jianan Feng , Heyuan Wang , Zhe Jing , Yue Wang, Yanli Cheng, Wanning Wang, Weixia Sun , Role of Magnesium in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Biol Trace Elem Res. 2020

So, how does magnesium deficiency increase the risk of development of type 2 diabetes?

  • increases insulin resistance
  • impairs lipid metabolism: increases cholesterol and triglyceride levels
  • prevents the transport of glucose into cells and tissues
  • induce low-grade inflammation by causing oxidative stress and impairing the adequate functioning of the antioxidant system
  • alters gut microbiome

Many studies show that magnesium supplementation improves glycemic control and reduces insulin resistance in people with diabetes, often aiding and outperforming many diabetic drugs.

Furthermore, it will also correct lipid levels and reduce blood pressure, consequently improving cardiac health.

Most of the time, our diet does not contain sufficient amounts of magnesium. For this reason, it is necessary to rely on magnesium supplements to boost magnesium status in the body effectively.

Magnesium breakthrough is a supplement containing seven bioavailable forms of magnesium, making it the most potent magnesium product today.13Wafaa A. ELDerawi, Ihab A. Naser, Mahmmoud H. Taleb, and Ayman S. Abutair, The Effects of Oral Magnesium Supplementation on Glycemic Response among Type 2 Diabetes Patients Nutrients. 201914H Verma, R Garg Effect of magnesium supplementation on type 2 diabetes associated cardiovascular risk factors: a systematic review and meta-analysisJ Hum Nutr Diet. 201715Gabriele Piuri , Monica Zocchi , Matteo Della Porta , Valentina Ficara , Michele Manoni , Gian Vincenzo Zuccotti , Luciano Pinotti , Jeanette A Maier , Roberta Cazzola, Magnesium in Obesity, Metabolic Syndrome, and Type 2 Diabetes Nutrients. 2021


Restore balance in your gut microbiome

Megasporebiotic

Megasporebiotic
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Shop NowFree Shipping Available
  • Megaspore Probiotic can help to restore balance in the gut microbiome, leading to improved glycemic control and reduced inflammation.

  • By improving glycemic control, Megaspore Probiotic may help to prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes.

  • The patented BIO-tract delivery system ensures that Megaspore Probiotic survives the harsh environment of the stomach and reaches the gut alive, where it can exert its beneficial effects.

The gut microbiome consists of a balance between good bacteria and harmful bacteria.

The gut barrier is compromised when the harmful bacteria overgrow, and dysbiosis takes hold.

Connection of Gut Microbiome and Blood Glucose

Recent studies show that individuals with type 2 diabetes also had a moderate degree of gut dysbiosis.

These studies also show that weight gain also skews this balance, fostering the growth of harmful bacteria leading to gut dysbiosis.

And because toxins can enter into the bloodstream through this defective barrier, the immune system will respond through inflammatory processes.

Consequently, these underlying inflammatory processes will imbalance the glucose levels in the blood.16Céline Gérard and Hubert Vidal, Impact of Gut Microbiota on Host Glycemic Control Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2019

Benefits of Probiotics For Blood Glucose regulation

Probiotics are live microorganisms that promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria.

Science is now beginning to demonstrate the beneficial role that probiotics have in the management of diabetes mellitus type 2.17Tícia Kocsis, Bálint Molnár, Dávid Németh, Péter Hegyi, Zsolt Szakács, Alexandra Bálint, András Garami, Alexandra Soós, Katalin Márta & Margit Solymár, Probiotics have beneficial metabolic effects in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials Scientific Reports. 2020

It improves the metabolic profile in diabetics by:

  • lowering total cholesterol levels in the body
  • reducing inflammation
  • lowering fasting glucose levels in the blood
  • lowering fasting insulin levels in the blood
  • decreasing blood pressure

Megasporebiotic is the most potent, well-researched probiotic supplement on the market today.

It is a broad-spectrum probiotic supplement containing five beneficial bacteria strains that support optimal gut health by increasing gut microbial diversity.

Megaspore is a unique probiotic as it contains spore-based probiotics that survive the acidity in the stomach, allowing it to colonize the gut. Most commercial probiotics cannot do this making them largely ineffective.

This probiotic will improve your gut health and enhance your metabolism and overall physical and mental health.


Curcumin

5
  • Turmeric has been used for centuries to treat a variety of health conditions

  • Curcumin is the active component of turmeric and has been shown to have powerful health benefits

  • May help prevent type 2 diabetes, cancer, heart disease, and other chronic illnesses

  • Aids in the treatment of various inflammatory, neurological, and autoimmune diseases

Curcumin is the active component of the herb turmeric (Curcuma longa).

Due to its color and aromatic flavor, turmeric was initially used as a dye and spice.

For centuries, and still today, turmeric has been used for various health conditions such as skin diseases, infections, fatigue, joint pain, and stress.

More significantly, research shows that turmeric plays a pivotal role in treating and preventing type 2 diabetes, cancer, heart diseases, inflammatory, neurological, and autoimmune diseases.18Betül Kocaadam, Nevin Şanlier, Curcumin, an active component of turmeric (Curcuma longa), and its effects on health Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 201719Ajaikumar B Kunnumakkara , Devivasha Bordoloi , Ganesan Padmavathi , Javadi Monisha , Nand Kishor Roy , Sahdeo Prasad , Bharat B Aggarwal , Curcumin, the golden nutraceutical: multitargeting for multiple chronic diseases Br J Pharmacol. 2017

In type 2 diabetes, curcumin lowers blood sugar by:

Turmeric 100 is a pure micronized form of turmeric supplement that is readily absorbed into the bloodstream through the mucous membrane in the mouth.

This delivery method ensures that the turmeric reaches the bloodstream immediately, thus providing fast, effective relief from pain.


Cinnamon Bark Extract

4.5
  • Helps maintain blood sugar levels

  • Reduces the amount of insulin required by people with diabetes.

  • Lowers fasting blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.

  • Aids in weight loss in people with diabetes

You probably know about this aromatic bark from the cinnamon tree, as this bark is used all over the world for its sweet yet spicy flavor. But do you know about its medicinal properties as well?22Priyanga Ranasinghe , Shehani Pigera, G A Sirimal Premakumara, Priyadarshani Galappaththy, Godwin R Constantine, Prasad Katulanda, Medicinal properties of ‘true’ cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum): a systematic review BMC Complement Altern Med. 2013

Because this popular bark has a range of functions in treating various health conditions, such as:

  • fighting infections
  • reducing inflammation
  • supporting gut health
  • lowering blood pressure
  • supporting bone health
  • improves memory and enhances attention

The action of cinnamon in preventing and treating type 2 diabetes is similar to the natural alternatives mentioned above. Along with causing low blood sugar, cinnamon also lowers the lipid levels in the body.23Roghayeh Zare , Azadeh Nadjarzadeh, Mohammad Mehdi Zarshenas , Mesbah Shams , Mojtaba Heydari, Efficacy of cinnamon in patients with type II diabetes mellitus: A randomized controlled clinical trial Clin Nutr. 201924Robert W Allen , Emmanuelle Schwartzman, William L Baker, Craig I Coleman, Olivia J Phung, Cinnamon use in type 2 diabetes: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis Ann Fam Med. 201325Matthew J Leach, Saravana Kumar, Cinnamon for diabetes mellitus Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2012


The Takeaway

Metformin is no doubt a beneficial drug. However, there are plenty of natural alternatives that are effective and come with minimal side effects.

These metformin alternatives not only function to manage your sugar levels but also counteract other components of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Incorporating some of the products mentioned above along with the recommended lifestyle changes will no doubt have positive benefits on your health and wellbeing!


References

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