Dr. Gary Fettke - '#Type 2 Diabetes' [8220e6]

Post Time: 2025-07-29

Alright, listen up, sugar lovers and sugar haters alike! Let's talk about blood sugar. Yes, that sneaky little thing that can turn your day into a rollercoaster if you’re not paying attention. You know the feeling – crashing harder than your phone after a night out. We're talking about the highs that make you feel like you can conquer the world, followed by the lows that make you want to curl up in a ball and binge-watch cat videos. Sound familiar? If you're nodding, especially if you've heard the dreaded "D" word – diabetes – then honey, pull up a chair (or a yoga ball, whatever floats your blood sugar boat) and listen up!

Food as Your First Line of Defense: Eat Your Way to Stable Blood Sugar (No Rabbit Food Required!)

Now, before you reach for that gigantic, sugary muffin (don't even think about it!), let’s get something straight. Food isn't the enemy! In fact, the right food is your secret weapon in the battle against blood sugar spikes. Forget those bland, depressing diet plans. We’re talking about delicious, real food that actually works. Think of it as strategic snacking!

So, what are these magical food ninjas that can help you keep your blood sugar in check?

• Fiber-Rich Foods: Your Gut's Best Friend (and Your Blood Sugar's Worst Nightmare!) Fiber is like that friend who always has your back. It slows down sugar absorption in your bloodstream, preventing those nasty spikes. We're talking about fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

  • Non-Starchy Vegetables: Think leafy greens (spinach, kale – yes, even kale can be delicious!), broccoli, cauliflower, bell peppers, and asparagus. Load up your plate! They're packed with fiber and nutrients, and seriously low in calories. Stop being a vegetable dodger, people!
  • Whole Grains: Oats, quinoa, brown rice, and barley are your fiber powerhouses. Swap out white bread and pasta for their whole-grain counterparts. Your taste buds (and your blood sugar) will thank you.
  • Legumes: Beans, lentils, chickpeas – these guys are nutritional superstars. High in fiber and protein, they're fantastic for stabilizing blood sugar and keeping you feeling full longer. Don't be afraid of a little bean burrito now and then!
  • Fruits (Yes, Fruits!): Wait, fruit and diabetes? Isn’t fruit sugary? Yes, it is, but it’s natural sugar, packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Focus on lower-glycemic fruits like berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), apples, pears, and cherries. Enjoy in moderation, of course. No need to eat a whole orchard in one sitting!

• Lean Protein: The Stabilizer Protein is like the calm, cool, and collected friend who keeps everyone else in check. It helps slow down digestion and prevents blood sugar from rising too quickly.

  • Chicken and Turkey (Skinless): Lean sources of protein without the extra baggage of unhealthy fats. Grilled, baked, or roasted are your best bets.
  • Fish: Especially fatty fish like salmon, tuna, and mackerel, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for overall health, including blood sugar management. Plus, fish is brain food, so you can outsmart those sugar cravings!
  • Eggs: Don't fear the egg! They're packed with protein and nutrients. Enjoy them scrambled, boiled, poached – just maybe skip the mountains of cheese and bacon.
  • Plant-Based Protein: Tofu, tempeh, edamame, and nuts (in moderation!) are excellent vegetarian and vegan protein options that contribute to stable blood sugar.

• Healthy Fats: Don't Be Fat-Phobic (But Be Smart!) Healthy fats, like monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, are essential for overall health and can play a role in blood sugar control. They help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation.

  • Avocados: Creamy, delicious, and packed with healthy fats and fiber. Avocado toast anyone? (Whole-wheat toast, naturally!)
  • Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, flaxseeds – these are nutritional powerhouses. But remember portion control, they're calorie-dense! A small handful is all you need.
  • Olive Oil: Use it for cooking and salad dressings. Extra virgin olive oil is the best.
  • Fatty Fish: (Again!) Salmon, mackerel, sardines – they’re full of those amazing omega-3s.

Table 1: Food Groups for Blood Sugar Management

Food Group	Examples	Benefits for Blood Sugar
Non-Starchy Veggies	Broccoli, Spinach, Bell Peppers, Asparagus	High fiber, low carbs, slow sugar absorption
Whole Grains	Oats, Quinoa, Brown Rice, Whole-wheat Bread	High fiber, sustained energy release
Legumes	Beans, Lentils, Chickpeas	High fiber and protein, stabilize blood sugar
Lean Protein	Chicken, Fish, Tofu, Eggs	Slow digestion, prevent rapid sugar spikes
Healthy Fats	Avocado, Nuts, Olive Oil, Fatty Fish	Improve insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation

Example Meal Plan for Blood Sugar Balance:

• Breakfast: Oatmeal with berries and nuts, or scrambled eggs with whole-wheat toast and avocado.
• Lunch: Salad with grilled chicken or chickpeas, and a vinaigrette dressing.
• Dinner: Baked salmon with roasted vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers) and quinoa.
• Snacks: Apple slices with almond butter, a handful of almonds, or Greek yogurt with berries.

Remember, folks, consistency is key! Eating these foods regularly can make a HUGE difference in managing your blood sugar levels.

Need a Little Extra Help? Enter the Blood Sugar Supplement Stage! (Gummies, Obviously!)

Okay, food is the foundation, but sometimes we need a little extra boost. Life happens, stress hits, and even the best-laid dietary plans can get derailed. That’s where blood sugar supplements come into play. Now, I know what you're thinking: pills, capsules, boring! NOPE! We're in the 21st century, baby! We have gummies!

Yes, you heard that right. Blood sugar supplements in gummy form. Who says managing your health can't be delicious and fun? It's like a treat that's actually good for you. Mind. Blown.

But before you go grabbing any sugary gummy bear imposter, let's talk about what actually works when it comes to blood sugar supplements. These aren't magic potions, but they can be helpful additions to a healthy diet and lifestyle.

• Chromium: This mineral is essential for insulin function. Studies have shown that chromium supplementation can improve insulin sensitivity and help lower blood sugar levels, especially in people with type 2 diabetes. Think of chromium as the backstage pass for insulin, helping it do its job better!

  • Research Highlight: A meta-analysis published in the journal Diabetes Technology & Therapeutics found that chromium supplementation significantly improved glycemic control in people with type 2 diabetes. (Source: Anderson RA. Chromium, glucose intolerance and diabetes. J Am Coll Nutr. 1998 Dec;17(6):548-55.)

• Cinnamon: Yes, the spice in your pumpkin spice latte! Cinnamon has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels. It may also help reduce post-meal blood sugar spikes. Sprinkle it on your oatmeal, add it to your tea, or get it in…you guessed it…gummy form!

  • Research Highlight: A study in Diabetes Care showed that cinnamon consumption significantly decreased fasting blood glucose, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, and total cholesterol in people with type 2 diabetes. (Source: Khan A, Safdar M, Ali Khan MM, Khattak KN, Anderson RA. Cinnamon improves glucose and lipids of people with type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Care. 2003 Dec;26(12):3215-8.)

• Berberine: This compound, found in various plants, is a powerhouse for blood sugar management. It works in multiple ways to improve insulin sensitivity, reduce glucose production in the liver, and slow down carbohydrate absorption. It’s like the multi-tool of blood sugar supplements.

  • Research Highlight: A meta-analysis in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology concluded that berberine is as effective as some diabetes drugs (like metformin) in improving blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes. (Source: Dong H, Zhao Y, Zhao L, Lu F. The effects of berberine on blood lipids: a systemic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. J Ethnopharmacol. 2013 Apr 19;145(3):633-41.)

• Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA): This antioxidant may improve insulin sensitivity and reduce nerve damage (neuropathy), a common complication of diabetes. It's like giving your cells a shield against sugar-induced damage.

  • Research Highlight: Studies suggest ALA can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce symptoms of diabetic neuropathy. (Source: Ziegler D, Nowak H, Kempler P, Vargha P, Low PA, Hayes J, Zimny A, Schatz R, Stracke H, Ruhnau KJ. Treatment of symptomatic diabetic polyneuropathy with the antioxidant alpha-lipoic acid: a meta-analysis. Diabetologia. 2004 Nov;47(11):1896-905.)

Table 2: Key Blood Sugar Supplement Ingredients and Their Benefits

Supplement Ingredient	Primary Benefit	Formats Available (Gummies!)
Chromium	Improves insulin sensitivity	Capsules, Tablets, Gummies
Cinnamon	Improves insulin sensitivity, lowers BG	Capsules, Extracts, Gummies
Berberine	Multi-action BG control, similar to drugs	Capsules, Extracts, Gummies
Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA)	Improves insulin sensitivity, reduces neuropathy	Capsules, Gummies

Why Gummies? Because Life is Too Short for Boring Supplements!

Let's be real, swallowing pills every day is about as exciting as watching paint dry. Gummies change the game! They're:

• Delicious: Who doesn't love a good gummy? Makes taking your supplements a treat, not a chore.
• Easy to Take: No water needed, no swallowing struggles. Just pop one in your mouth and go!
• More Likely to be Taken Consistently: Because they taste good and are convenient, you're more likely to remember to take them regularly. Consistency is KEY for supplement effectiveness.
• Fun!: Let’s face it, health can be serious business, but it doesn't have to be boring business. Gummies add a little joy to your daily routine.

Diabetes Gummies: A Sweet Solution for Blood Sugar Support (Yes, Sweet and Blood Sugar Can Be Friends!)

Now, let's talk specifically about diabetes gummies. These aren't just regular gummies masquerading as health supplements. They are specifically formulated with ingredients known to support healthy blood sugar levels, often including the rockstar ingredients we just discussed (chromium, cinnamon, berberine, ALA).

Diabetes gummies are designed to be a convenient and enjoyable way to incorporate blood sugar support into your daily routine. Think of them as a delicious sidekick to your healthy diet and lifestyle.

Key Benefits of Diabetes Gummies:

• Targeted Blood Sugar Support: Formulated with ingredients scientifically studied for their blood sugar-regulating properties.
• Convenient and Palatable: Easy to take and enjoyable to eat, making consistent supplementation simple.
• Potential to Reduce Sugar Cravings: Some ingredients, like chromium, may help regulate blood sugar, which can indirectly reduce sugar cravings and promote healthier eating habits.
• Complement to a Healthy Lifestyle: Best used in conjunction with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and healthy lifestyle practices. They're not a magic bullet, but they are a powerful ally.

Choosing the Right Diabetes Gummies:

• Check the Ingredients List: Look for gummies that contain clinically studied ingredients like chromium, cinnamon, berberine, and ALA. Make sure they are in effective dosages.
• Sugar Content: Opt for diabetes gummies that are low in sugar or sugar-free, using natural sweeteners like stevia or erythritol. We don't want to be adding to the blood sugar problem with the gummy itself! That's just counterproductive, and frankly, a little ridiculous.
• Read Reviews: See what other users are saying about the product. Real-world experiences can be invaluable.
• Consult Your Doctor: Always talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you have diabetes or are taking diabetes medication (diabetes drug). They can advise you on whether diabetes gummies are right for you and how they might interact with your current treatment plan.

Diabetes Drugs: Necessary, But Maybe Not the Only Answer (Gummies Can Play a Supporting Role!)

Let's briefly touch on diabetes drugs. For many people with diabetes, medication is a necessary and life-saving part of their treatment plan. Diabetes drugs work in various ways to lower blood sugar levels, including increasing insulin production, improving insulin sensitivity, and reducing glucose production by the liver.

Common types of diabetes drugs include:

• Metformin: Often the first-line medication for type 2 diabetes.
• Sulfonylureas: Stimulate insulin release from the pancreas.
• DPP-4 Inhibitors: Help increase insulin levels and decrease glucose production.
• SGLT2 Inhibitors: Help the kidneys remove excess glucose from the body.
• Insulin: Used for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes when the body doesn't produce enough insulin on its own.

Important Note: Diabetes drugs are prescribed by doctors and should be taken exactly as directed. Do not stop taking your prescribed medication without consulting your doctor, even if you're taking supplements or gummies!

Where do gummies fit in when you're on diabetes medication?

Diabetes gummies are not intended to replace diabetes drugs. They are supplements, meant to supplement a healthy lifestyle and potentially support the effectiveness of medication. Think of them as a supportive player on your blood sugar management team, not the star quarterback replacing your medication.

Diabetes gummies may be helpful for:

• Supporting overall blood sugar management alongside medication.
• Potentially reducing the dosage of medication in some cases (always under doctor supervision!).
• Providing extra support during times of stress or dietary slip-ups.
• Offering a more palatable and enjoyable way to support blood sugar health.

Bottom Line: Blood Sugar Control is a Team Effort!

Managing blood sugar, especially if you have diabetes, is a multi-faceted approach. It’s not just about one magic pill, food, or gummy. It’s about:

1. Eating a balanced diet rich in fiber, lean protein, and healthy fats.
2. Engaging in regular physical activity.
3. Managing stress.
4. Getting enough sleep.
5. Taking prescribed medications as directed (if needed).
6. Considering supportive supplements like diabetes gummies (with your doctor's okay!).

Diabetes gummies can be a valuable and enjoyable tool in your blood sugar management toolkit. They’re a sweet (but not too sweet!) way to support your health journey. So, ditch the boring pills, embrace the gummy goodness, and take control of your blood sugar with a little sass and a whole lot of smarts!

Ready to kickstart your blood sugar journey with delicious gummies? Check out our amazing range of diabetes-friendly gummies today! Your taste buds (and your pancreas) will thank you!

Dr. Gary Fettke is an Orthopaedic Surgeon practising in Launceston, Australia. Along with his does amlodipine affect blood sugar levels wife Belinda, Gary has also opened the 'Nutrition for Life – Diabetes and Health Research Centre' based in Launceston which provides nutritional care around Tasmania and Australia. Gary has a longstanding interest in the preventative aspects of health outcomes, particularly before operating on his patients. Recently an AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) investigation into Gary’s qualifications to what is a good blood sugar level for non diabetics give nutritional advice has concluded. This investigation (which lasted for more than two years) why do beans spike my blood sugar has resulted in Gary being issued a ‘caution’. The Medical Board of Tasmania, under the umbrella of the Australian Health Practitioners Regulatory Authority, have advised him; ”In particular, that he does not provide specific advice or recommendations on the subject of nutrition and how it relates to the management of diabetes or the treatment and/or prevention of cancer.”Dr. Gary Fettke - '#Type 2 Diabetes' [8220e6]