Managing blood sugar levels is a vital aspect of overall health, and if looked after well, it can prevent all kinds of conditions including hypoglycaemia and diabetes.
Ozempic is a pharmaceutical drug that is used to try to help maintain the blood sugar levels of those with type-2 diabetes. Berberine is a natural compound found in several plants, that has gained attention for its potential to mimic the effects of medications like Ozempic in blood sugar management. In this blog we will discuss whether Berberine is natures Ozempic.
One of the imbalances I check for with everyone, even if they have no symptoms, is whether their blood sugars are being appropriately managed within the body. A lot of my clients don’t fully understand that some foods and drinks may be having a negative impact on their blood sugars. They often say “I don’t eat much sugar”. However, on further questioning (and testing) there are many hidden sugars, and also simple carbohydrates they are consuming (sometimes without realising) that are turning straight into glucose within their body.
Understanding Blood Sugar Balance
Blood sugar, or glucose is the primary source of energy for our bodies. Maintaining stable blood sugar levels is important for optimal health, although we don’t want that glucose to come from processed/refined sugars or simple carbohydrates. If our glucose is coming from those foods then blood sugar levels can become consistently too high (hyperglycemia), or, too low (hypoglycemia). Either of these conditions can lead to nasty symptoms and ultimately more serious health complications.
Symptoms of blood sugar imbalance.
- Headaches
- Emotionally sensitive
- Feeling shaky
- Dizziness
- Sudden heat
- Hangry (feel hungry & angry)
- Brain fog and or confusion
- Feeling weak
- Looking pale
- Nausea
- Sweating
- Fast heart rate or palpitations
- Plus many more…..
How can we balance blood sugars naturally with Systematic kinesiology and nutrition?
- Healthy Diet: A balanced diet that can be tested that is bespoke for each person. We are looking at diets rich in whole grains (or not) , lean proteins, fibre-rich fruits and vegetables, and healthy fats which are fundamental for blood sugar control. Also Avoiding or limiting refined sugars and carbohydrates. Eat at regular intervals of around 4 hours. If hypoglycaemic maybe 4/5 small meals/snacks a day.
- Regular Exercise: the right Physical activity for you helps the body use glucose for energy, reducing insulin resistance. Aim for at least 150 minutes of the right moderate-intensity exercise (maybe for your blood group) per week. Suggestions are: Blood A walking, gentle swimming yoga & Pilates, Blood B cardiovascular, swimming & creativity/design, Blood AB cycling, yoga, pilates, gentle swimming, Blood O cardiovascular, power walking and strong swimming.
- Stress Management: Chronic stress can elevate blood sugar levels. Systematic Kinesiology stress reducing techniques such as releasing emotional trauma, expelling fears and phobias and balancing the hormonal system can really help diminish stress levels.
- Adequate Sleep: Lack of sleep can disrupt blood sugar regulation. Look at getting 7.5/8 hours of quality sleep per night. If unable to do that then systematic Kinesiology can help balance the para sympathetic nervous system which needs to kick in for good rest, digestion and sleep.
- Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight or losing excess weight can significantly improve blood sugar control. SK can help considerably with weight loss which may include eating right for your blood type.
- Supplements: including chromium or chromium rich herbs and or Berberine can be enormously helpful in balancing blood sugars and weight loss.
The pharmaceutical drug ‘Ozempic’ is a medication proven effective for type 2 diabetes and weight loss. It works by mimicking the action of the hormone GLP-1, helping to lower blood sugar levels by increasing insulin release and reducing appetite.
However, the natural approaches such as mentioned above can also play a significant role in blood sugar regulation as can Berberine.
Is Berberine an alternative to Ozempic?
Berberine is a natural compound found in several plants, including goldenseal and barberry. It has gained attention for its potential to mimic the effects of medications like Ozempic in blood sugar management. Here’s how berberine may be a considered alternative.
- Improving Insulin Sensitivity: Berberine has been shown to enhance insulin sensitivity, allowing cells to better respond to insulin and take up glucose from the bloodstream.
- Reducing Blood Sugar Levels: Studies have suggested that berberine can lower fasting blood sugar levels, making it a promising option for those with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes.
- Aiding Weight Loss: Berberine may support weight loss, which can contribute to better blood sugar control.
- Heart Health Benefits: Berberine can also have positive effects on cholesterol levels and cardiovascular health, which is often a concern for individuals with blood sugar problems/conditions.
In my experience balancing blood sugar levels naturally is possible with Systematic Kinesiology and nutrition. A combination of a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep, can go a long way in controlling blood sugar levels.
Berberine can be effective in balancing blood sugars and supporting weight loss and shows promise as an alternative to medications like Ozempic. However, as stated above it should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider as individual responses may vary and different supplements would need to be tested to find the correct one for the individual’s needs.
To find your nearest Systematic Kinesiology practitioner go to https://www.taskuknetwork.org/find-a-kinesiologist/
NB: If on medication you would need to consult a doctor before making any changes.