Herbs and Spices for Type II Diabetes Management

Learn how incorporating Mediterranean herbs and spices can enhance cardiometabolic health and help manage Type II diabetes effectively.

The Mediterranean diet is known for its cardiometabolic benefits, reducing cardiovascular disease risk and improving glucose control. It includes nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, along with various herbs and spices that offer vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, and anti-inflammatory compounds.

According to the Institute for Functional Medicine, a 2024 meta-analysis by Garza et al. evaluated the effects of five Mediterranean herbs and spices—cinnamon, curcumin/turmeric, ginger, black cumin, and saffron—on blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetes (T2DM) patients. The study reviewed 45 controlled clinical trials with 3,050 participants.

Key findings include:

• Black cumin reduced fasting glucose levels by 17-27 mg/dL, followed by cinnamon and ginger.
• Ginger and black cumin lowered HbA1c by 0.56% and 0.41%, respectively.
• Cinnamon and ginger decreased insulin levels by 0.76 UI/µL and 1.69 UI/µL, respectively.

Despite dosage variations and potential confounders such as changes in weight and lifestyle, these herbs and spices showed significant glycemic benefits. Further research, including a 2024 trial, demonstrated cinnamon’s benefits in reducing glucose peaks and 24-hour glucose concentrations in prediabetic individuals.

Incorporating Mediterranean herbs and spices into personalized dietary plans can enhance cardiometabolic health and effectively manage Type II Diabetes. The Garza et al. study supports their use for their glycemic control and overall health benefits. Access Medical Labs offers custom panels tailored to meet your patients’ specific needs, enabling a more precise and individualized approach to managing Type II Diabetes and ensuring they receive the most effective interventions based on their unique metabolic profiles. Tests such as insulin and hemoglobin A1C are essential for understanding a patient’s insulin sensitivity and long-term glucose control. Additionally, other tests such as CBC (Complete Blood Count) and CMP (Comprehensive Metabolic Panel) can provide crucial data on the patient’s overall health and metabolic function. Learn more about them here.