Every new year often comes with resolutions, including attempts to improve lifestyle and health habits. While we frequently hear of “improving metabolism”, the term metabolism may be misunderstood. Metabolism refers to all of the reactions in the body’s cells that either produce or consume energy. The rate at which energy is produced generally referred to as our metabolic rate is influenced by several factors, including diet, physical activity, age, and health status. A number of dietary supplements have been shown to support metabolic health, such as alpha-lipoic acid, berberine, chromium, and psyllium husk.
To celebrate Metabolic Health Month, I’m offering you a discount of 5% on all of your orders through my Fullscript dispensary, so making your health a priority is easier than ever.
Below I have listed some useful information about my top recommended supplements for metabolism support, including popular products from my dispensary.
Alpha-lipoic acid
Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is an antioxidant and a cofactor used in energy production. A decline in ALA synthesis, often associated with increasing age, may contribute to cellular dysfunction. Supplementation of ALA may help regulate anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant pathways, reducing levels of oxidative stress that may contribute to the development of cardiovascular diseases.
Find alpha-lipoic acid-containing supplements on Fullscript
Berberine
Berberine is an alkaloid found in certain botanical herbs, including Oregon grape, barberry, goldenseal, and California poppy. Berberine may interact with gut microbiota, increasing the production of certain metabolites that regulate energy metabolism. Clinical research has demonstrated several health effects of berberine supplementation, such as lowering lipid levels and improving insulin resistance. Furthermore, berberine supplementation may support cardiometabolic health by reducing inflammation and improving vascular health.
Find berberine-containing supplements on Fullscript
Chromium
An essential trace mineral, chromium is used by the body to support the metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids (fats). Chromium supplementation may help manage blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes by reducing insulin resistance. Further, supplementation of chromium picolinate, a form of the mineral, has been shown to help manage weight and improve body composition.
Find chromium-containing supplements on Fullscript
Psyllium husk
Psyllium husk is a water-soluble fiber that comes from the seeds of the Plantago ovata plant. When mixed with liquid, psyllium husk forms a gel and slows the absorption of glucose (a simple sugar) in the digestive tract, resulting in lower blood glucose levels following meals. Psyllium husk supplementation may reduce blood glucose levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes and help lower cholesterol levels, a marker of cardiometabolic diseases.
Find psyllium husk-containing supplements on Fullscript
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