Resveratrol and Diabetes: A Diabetes Educator’s Insight

Living with diabetes can be challenging, and managing blood glucose levels is at the top of the list.

As more research comes out about diabetes treatments, it’s important to stay informed. You may have heard of resveratrol, a compound found in fruits like grapes, that has been said to offer a range of health benefits. But the big question for those with diabetes is: can it help improve blood sugar levels? Let’s dive into the science and see what studies say about how resveratrol might benefit people with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.

What Is Resveratrol?

Resveratrol is an antioxidant that has been shown to have several potential health benefits. It is commonly found in red grapes, berries, and peanuts. Over the years, it has gained attention for its supposed ability to help with weight loss, support brain health, protect against cancer, and improve heart health. But how does it affect blood glucose levels, especially for those living with diabetes?

Resveratrol for Type 2 Diabetes (T2D)

The first piece of research we’ll look at focuses on Type 2 diabetes, a condition where the body struggles with insulin resistance. A review of studies on resveratrol found that it might help by improving insulin sensitivity. In other words, resveratrol may reduce insulin resistance, making it easier for the body to use insulin effectively. Additionally, the study showed that resveratrol helped lower A1c levels, which is a long-term marker of blood sugar control. This A1c and insulin resistance improvement makes resveratrol an exciting option for people with Type 2 diabetes. If you're working with a T2D dietitian, they might consider resveratrol as a part of your overall treatment plan.

Resveratrol for Type 1 Diabetes (T1D)

What about those living with Type 1 diabetes? A separate study focused on people with Type 1 diabetes found promising results. While the sample size was small, the data showed that resveratrol helped lower fasting blood sugar levels and A1c levels in participants. For someone with Type 1 diabetes, this might provide an additional tool to help manage blood glucose levels.

How Does Resveratrol Work?

Resveratrol uniquely helps people with diabetes. It increases the uptake of glucose into the cells. This process is similar to when you exercise — your muscles become more efficient at taking in glucose, which helps lower blood sugar levels. This mechanism is beneficial for both Type 1 diabetes and Type 2 diabetes. Whether you have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, resveratrol could offer a potential boost to your blood sugar management.

Recommended Dosage and Considerations

Most studies on resveratrol have used doses between 500mg and 1200mg. For those considering adding resveratrol to their diabetes care routine, it’s important to consult with your diabetes educator or diabetes dietitian before making any changes. They can help determine if resveratrol is a good fit for you and ensure it doesn't interfere with other treatments or medications.

Conclusion

If you live with diabetes, resveratrol could be a helpful addition to your health regimen. Research shows that it can improve blood sugar control by increasing glucose uptake, which is especially beneficial for people with Type 1 diabetes and Type 2 diabetes. Talk to your diabetes educator to discuss whether resveratrol is right for you. With their guidance, you can make informed decisions about your diabetes management plan.

Incorporating healthy habits, including the right supplements, can help you lead a better life with diabetes.