A Miami physician who looks after more than 3,000 patients with Type 2 diabetes has revealed how natural ingredients can help manage blood sugar levels without relying solely on medication.
Dr Rudolph Eberwein, a board-certified internal medicine specialist and metabolic health expert, believes nutrition forms the cornerstone of diabetes management, telling GB News: "Nutrition is the foundation of blood sugar control. You can't out-medicate a poor diet."
The physician, who founded A New You Wellness Centre, says he has seen remarkable results when patients understand which foods to eat.
"When patients know what to eat - and why - we see A1C drop, inflammation go down, and energy return," he noted.
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'Nutrition is the foundation of blood sugar control'
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Dr Eberwein identified six ingredients backed by research that can make a real difference, with cinnamon topping the list, as studies show it can cut fasting blood sugar by as much as 29 per cent.
Apple cider vinegar has proven equally impressive to researchers as it can slash post-meal glucose spikes by 20 to 34 per cent when taken before carbohydrate-heavy meals.
In addition, the plant compound berberine has shown results matching the diabetes drug metformin in reducing both fasting glucose and A1C levels.
The list continues with chia and flaxseeds, whose soluble fibre helps smooth out glucose peaks while nourishing gut bacteria, Dr Eberwein explained.
He added that the essential minerals magnesium and chromium -help steady insulin signalling, while fenugreek and turmeric offer anti-inflammatory benefits that support glucose metabolism.
Dr Eberwein described these ingredients as "blood sugar brakes", noting that "they slow digestion, flatten glucose curves, and calm the overactive insulin response that drives fat storage and fatigue".
Soluble fibre puts the brakes on carbohydrate absorption while keeping insulin steady. Both vinegar and cinnamon, on the other hand, boost insulin sensitivity where it matters most, at the cellular level.
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Berberine and fenugreek work differently, affecting how the liver releases glucose, which brings down fasting sugar readings.
Meanwhile, magnesium plays a dual role, controlling insulin release from the pancreas while helping muscles take up glucose more efficiently.
"Patients notice less brain fog, fewer cravings, and more balanced energy - often within days of improving their nutrition," Dr Eberwein observed.
These natural approaches can work alongside medical treatment or even help delay medication needs in early Type 2 diabetes cases.
Dr Eberwein pointed out that nutrient-rich foods help the body switch smoothly between using carbohydrates and fats for fuel.
While supplements have their place, he maintained that whole foods remain the most effective option. Each person responds differently to glucose, so he advised using continuous glucose monitors or home testing to tailor dietary choices.
Cinnamon has been shown to reduce blood sugar levels by up to 29 per cent
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"The modern food environment is engineered for metabolic chaos," Dr Eberwein noted. "Processed foods, stress, and sedentary habits drive blood sugar spikes all day. But we can fight back with education and consistency."
With over 11 million people in the UK living with prediabetes or Type 2 diabetes, these simple nutritional strategies could make a significant difference.
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