MAILBAG: Stabilize Stubborn Blood Sugars

By Dr. Scott Olson, ND Posted November 1, 2022

Dear Living Well Daily Reader,

“I have type 2 diabetes and my numbers always seem to just be constantly yo-yoing. My doctor already has me on so many prescriptions. Are there any other steps I can take that don’t require drugs?”

—Anne from Tacoma, Washington

Hi Anne,

Let me first caution that making any changes to your routine can lead to low blood sugar, especially when taking diabetes drugs. So it’s vital to always get a thumbs up from your doctor when trying something new.

Here are some things that have worked for other folks in your situation:

• Ditch the Sugar: Cut as much sugar out of our diet as you can. That means tossing the obvious problem foods, such as sodas and sweets, into the trash. But be on the lookout for hidden sources like salad dressings, soups, and other prepared foods. Base your diet around fresh proteins and vegetables, and cook from scratch whenever possible.
• Sneak in More Exercise: Take the stairs, walk to your errands, stand during television commercials (or better yet, dance or do knee bends). And find an active AND fun hobby. If you enjoy yourself, you will likely stick with it.
• Lose Weight: The best way to reign in yo-yoing blood sugars is to maintain a healthy weight. There are many ways to drop a few pounds, but do me a favor and skip the calorie counting. Instead, focus on building muscle and eating a low-sugar and low carbohydrate diet. Boost your metabolism by bumping up your B5 found in sunflower seeds, lentils, eggs, and yogurt. And reduce fat-promoting inflammation by balancing your gut bugs with probiotic foods or a supplement.
• Try Supplements: Certain supplements may help you maintain healthier blood sugars…

Cinnamon isn’t just delicious on toast. When it’s super-concentrated, the herb can lower blood sugar. It’s easy to find in supplement form and dirt cheap. Just make sure you stick with Ceylon cinnamon, not cassia, to get the best benefits.

Turmeric can help reduce insulin resistance allowing glucose to enter your cells more effectively and lower blood sugar. You can add more turmeric to your meals or get it as a supplement.

Olive leaf extract comes from the leaves of the olive plant. The herb can help improve insulin secretion in cells, naturally reducing excess blood sugar.

Try these tips and you may even find your doctor decides to take you OFF some of your meds as your blood sugar stabilizes naturally.

P.S. Still need help? Researchers found that THIS common habit is directly associated with high blood sugar levels.

Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND

Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.

View More By Dr. Scott Olson, ND