Gymnema Sylvestre is a plant that grows in India, Africa, and Australia. Gymnema is an herb that has been used traditionally in India for centuries.
Modern research has shown that this herb may help to support healthy glucose metabolism through its ability to promote healthy pancreatic function. It’s been used for centuries in traditional medicine as a treatment for diabetes. In fact, the Hindi name for this herb translates to “destroyer of sugar.”
Compounds extracted from gymnema have been shown to reduce the absorption of sugar from the intestinal tract and boost insulin production, all of which could help lower blood sugar. Animal testing confirms that gymnema reduces blood glucose levels.
When consumed prior to sugary food or beverage, gymnemic acid blocks the sugar receptors on your taste buds. This sends a signal to your brain, telling it that you do not like the taste, which in turn makes you stop eating sugary foods. It reduces the ability to taste the sweetness and this makes sweet foods less appealing.
How to Use Gymnema
Take Gymnema with water 5–10 minutes before a high-sugar meal or snack to block the sugar receptors on your tongue.
The recommended dosage for Gymnema is:
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Tea: Boil leaves for 5 minutes, then let steep for 10–15 minutes before drinking.
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Powder: Start with 2 grams, increasing to 4 grams if no side effects occur.
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Capsule: 100 mg, 3–4 times daily.
Gymnema Tea
Gymnema Powder
Gymnema Capsules
Warnings & Precautions:
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There is not enough reliable information about the safety of taking gymnema if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. It is best to be safe and avoid use.
Diabetes: Gymnema can affect blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Watch for signs of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and monitor your blood sugar carefully if you have diabetes and use gymnema.
Surgery: Gymnema might affect blood sugar levels and could interfere with blood sugar control during and after surgical procedures. Stop using gymnema at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.
Other Benefits:
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Helps Lower Blood Sugar Levels
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Gymnema sylvestre is considered to have anti-diabetic properties.
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As a supplement, it has been used in combination with other diabetes medications to lower blood sugar.
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Studies suggest that consuming 200–400 mg of gymnemic acid reduces the intestinal absorption of sugar glucose.
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May Contribute to Favorable Insulin Levels by Increasing Insulin Production.
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Gymnema’s role in insulin secretion and cell regeneration may also contribute to its blood-sugar-lowering capabilities.
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Gymnema sylvestre may stimulate insulin production in your pancreas, promoting the regeneration of insulin-producing islet cells. This can help lower your blood sugar levels.
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Improves Cholesterol and Triglyceride Levels, Reducing Heart Disease Risk.
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Gymnema may help lower “bad” LDL cholesterol levels and triglycerides.
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Research shows that it may also influence fat absorption and lipid levels.
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May Aid Weight Loss.
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Research has shown that Gymnema can assist in weight loss due to reduced sugar cravings, resulting in fewer calories.
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It also can reduce appetite.
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Helps Reduce Inflammation.
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There is a link between excessive sugar intake and increased inflammatory markers in humans.
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Gymnema reduces sugar absorption in your intestines and this may also allow it to decrease inflammation caused by excess sugar intake.
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