Supplements for insulin resistance
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Plant-Based and Polyphenol Supplements for Insulin Resistance
Several plant-derived supplements have shown promise in improving insulin resistance. Compounds such as anthocyanins, curcumin, and berberine have demonstrated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hypolipidemic, and insulin-sensitizing effects, which can help improve glucose metabolism and reduce insulin resistance. These effects are supported by both laboratory and clinical studies, highlighting the potential of plant supplements as part of a broader lifestyle intervention for managing insulin resistance 167. Additionally, sulforaphane, a compound found in cruciferous vegetables, has been shown to reduce insulin resistance by activating antioxidant pathways and improving insulin signaling in animal models .
Probiotics and Prebiotics: Modulating Gut Health to Improve Insulin Sensitivity
Probiotic supplementation, particularly with strains like Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Clostridium, and Akkermansia, has led to significant improvements in insulin resistance in animal studies. These probiotics also improved lipid profiles, reduced inflammation, and enhanced gut microbiota composition. However, human clinical trials have shown mixed results, with some studies reporting benefits and others finding no effect. More long-term studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness of probiotics in people with insulin resistance . Prebiotics, such as resistant dextrin, have shown more consistent results in humans, with supplementation leading to significant reductions in fasting insulin, insulin resistance, and inflammatory markers in women with type 2 diabetes .
Vitamins and Minerals: Vitamin D and Zinc Supplementation
Vitamin D supplementation has been shown to reduce insulin resistance in animal models of prediabetes, likely by improving insulin signaling and reducing inflammation. These findings suggest that vitamin D may play a role in preventing the progression from prediabetes to type 2 diabetes . Zinc is also important for insulin synthesis and secretion, and zinc deficiency is associated with glucose intolerance and insulin resistance. However, the evidence for the effectiveness of zinc supplementation in improving insulin sensitivity in humans remains inconclusive and requires further research .
Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Ceramides
Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have been found to reduce insulin resistance and triglyceride levels in individuals at high risk of type 2 diabetes. Curcumin supplementation also improved insulin sensitivity, and the combination of curcumin and omega-3s showed beneficial effects on blood lipids, though not always on glycemic control . Additionally, animal studies suggest that dietary ceramides and glucosylceramides derived from sea cucumbers can improve glucose tolerance, reduce blood glucose, and alleviate inflammation, indicating potential value in preventing and managing insulin resistance .
Supplements for Insulin Resistance in PCOS
A systematic review and meta-analysis of supplements in overweight or obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) found that various supplements significantly improved insulin resistance, hormonal balance, and oxidative stress compared to placebo. These findings support the use of supplements as an adjunct to lifestyle interventions in managing insulin resistance in PCOS, though more high-quality studies are needed .
Conclusion
A range of dietary supplements—including plant polyphenols, probiotics, prebiotics, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and certain minerals—show potential in improving insulin resistance through various mechanisms such as reducing inflammation, enhancing insulin signaling, and modulating gut health. While animal and some human studies are promising, more robust and long-term clinical trials are needed to confirm their effectiveness and establish clear guidelines for supplementation in people with insulin resistance.
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