Prediabetes and Supplements: What You Need to Know

Prediabetes: The Supplement Question

Prediabetes affects over 88 million American adults. Many turn to supplements hoping to avoid progression to type 2 diabetes.

What Is Prediabetes?

Prediabetes means blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet in the diabetic range. Without intervention, many people with prediabetes develop type 2 diabetes within 5-10 years.

What Actually Prevents Progression

The Diabetes Prevention Program study showed that lifestyle intervention (modest weight loss, exercise) reduced diabetes risk by 58%. This far exceeds any supplement's effect.

Supplements With Some Evidence

Berberine: May improve insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. Some research is promising.

Magnesium: Deficiency is linked to insulin resistance. Supplementation may help those who are low.

Fiber supplements: May slow glucose absorption and improve markers.

The Bottom Line

No supplement can substitute for:

5-7% weight loss if overweight

150 minutes weekly moderate exercise

Reduced refined carbohydrate intake

Regular medical monitoring

Focus on proven lifestyle changes first. Supplements may provide modest additional support for some people.

*Always work with your healthcare provider to manage prediabetes.*