Evidence-Based Supplement Reviews

Every supplement on this page has been evaluated using published clinical trials in human Type 2 diabetes populations. We only include supplements with at least 2 randomized controlled trials.

Important: No supplement replaces diabetes medication. These are adjuncts that may provide additional benefit. Always discuss with your prescribing physician before adding any supplement, especially if you take metformin, insulin, or sulfonylureas.
A

Strong Evidence

Multiple RCTs, meta-analyses, consistent results

Berberine
A

The most studied natural compound for blood glucose management with evidence approaching some prescription medications.

A1C and glucose reduction

Key Benefit

500mg 2-3x/day

Studied Dose

-0.5 to -0.9%

A1C Effect

Read full review
Alpha-Lipoic Acid
A(for neuropathy)

Strong evidence for diabetic neuropathy relief. Modest effect on blood glucose levels.

Neuropathy symptom relief

Key Benefit

600mg/day

Studied Dose

-0.1 to -0.3%

A1C Effect

Read full review
Psyllium Fiber
A(for post-meal glucose)

Well-established fiber supplement that reduces post-meal glucose spikes when taken before meals.

Post-meal glucose reduction

Key Benefit

5-10g before meals

Studied Dose

15-20% spike reduction

A1C Effect

Read full review
Omega-3 Fish Oil
A(cardiovascular)

Strong cardiovascular benefits and significant triglyceride reduction. Minimal direct effect on A1C.

Cardiovascular protection

Key Benefit

2-4g/day

Studied Dose

Minimal A1C effect

A1C Effect

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B

Moderate Evidence

Some RCTs, generally positive but limited data

Chromium Picolinate
B

Some evidence for glucose improvement, but results are inconsistent across studies.

Insulin sensitivity

Key Benefit

200-1000mcg/day

Studied Dose

-0.2 to -0.6%

A1C Effect

Read full review
Magnesium Glycinate
B

Important for insulin function. Benefits most pronounced in those with magnesium deficiency.

Insulin sensitivity

Key Benefit

250-350mg/day

Studied Dose

-0.1 to -0.3%

A1C Effect

Read full review
Vitamin D3
B(if deficient)

Benefits primarily seen in those who are vitamin D deficient. Test levels before supplementing.

Insulin secretion support

Key Benefit

1000-4000 IU/day

Studied Dose

-0.1 to -0.2%

A1C Effect

Read full review
Ceylon Cinnamon
B

Modest evidence for blood sugar benefits. Use Ceylon variety to avoid coumarin concerns.

Glucose metabolism

Key Benefit

1-6g/day

Studied Dose

-0.1 to -0.3%

A1C Effect

Read full review