Glucose Management

Almost everything we eat is broken down into glucose and eventually absorbed into the bloodstream.  Glucose is a biologically universal fuel source.  It is the primary energy molecule and is essential for cellular growth and energy.  Insulin is the messenger that tells cells to take in glucose.  Without it, glucose is unable to enter most cells.  Diabetes occurs when there is too much glucose left circulating in the blood, i.e., high blood glucose levels.  This can happen either because the body stops producing enough insulin or cells simply stop listening to insulin's message.

The incidence of diabetes is up nearly 40% over the last decade, and almost all of that increase can be attributed to the dramatic rise in adult onset, or Type II diabetes.  The prevalence of Type II diabetes is a lifestyle health indicator directly linked to America's expanding waist line.  The American Diabetes Association estimates that there are a million new cases of diabetes every year.  People are being diagnosed younger and younger--the incidence of Type II diabetes in 30 year olds has increased by 70% over the past ten years. (US News and World Report, 2001; diabetes.org)

In addition to lifestyle changes like exercise and diet, nutritional support can enhance healthy insulin activity and sensitivity.  For example, studies by the USDA show that the polyphenolic compounds found in cinnamon may significantly increase healthy glucose metabolism. (Anderson et al. 2004)

Recent research has demonstrated Cinnamon's ability to potentiate healthy insulin activity, nutritionally reduce risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease, and act as a natural dietary anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial. (Zoladz, 2004)  Cinnamon compounds may actually influence the signal mechanisms that regulate healthy insulin levels. (Inparl-Radosevich, et al. 1998; Qin et al. 2003)  Fasting serum glucose levels in subjects taking Cinnamon were reduced by as much as 29%. (Khan, et al. 2003)  Even where insulin resistance was artificially induced by administering an intense sugar, Cinnamon extract helped maintain healthy insulin levels and prevent insulin malfunction. (Qin et al. 2004)

Glucose metabolism has also been linked to oxidative stress. (Ceriello et al. 1991)  Science regarding agents recognized as insulin potentiators has now naturally evolved to the study of their antioxidant capabilities. (Preuss, 1998)  Many researchers believe that increased free radical accumulation may be related to insulin resistance.  It is supposed that cells that are damaged by free radicals may fail to perform their metabolic functions properly.  Correspondingly, Cinnamon's effects are not limited to glucose control, but have also been shown to inhibit lipid oxidation. (Mancini-Gilho et al. 1998)

Other nutrients that have shown benefits in glucose management and metabolism include Grape Seed extract, a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to have a positive impact on insulin sensitivity and to work synergistically with Chromium. (Preuss et al. 1995; Tyson, 2000)  Grape Seed extract has been demonstrated specifically to improve the pathological oxidative state in compromised blood glucose.  This protective effect on insulin-sensitive cells may also result in other effects supporting healthy blood glucose. (Pinet, et al. 2004; Preuss, et al. 2002; Preuss et al. 2001)  Fenugreek extract is a soluble fiber extract that includes large, enzyme-resistant polysaccharides called galactomannans.  These polysaccharides form a sticky, viscous gel in the gut that slow the absorption of dietary sugars into the bloodstream by off-setting their absorption in the small intestine. (Toronto, 2002; Japan, 2002)