Saturday, June 1, 2024

Do You Have a Sweet Tooth?

People with a sweet tooth are often concerned about sugar intake because simple sugar can contribute to insulin resistance, inflammation in the body, and weight gain. Let's talk about a powerful sugar destroyer.

Gymnema, also known as Gymnema Sylvestre, is a woody vine native to India and Africa. It is known as the “destroyer of sugar,” which gets its nickname from its effects related to sugar metabolism. Its most well-known ability is to temporarily suppress the taste of sugar on the tongue and reduce sugar cravings. Gymnema has a long history of use in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for its various health benefits. One of the most important components in the leaves of Gymnema Sylvestre is saponins, which are molecules that help reduce cholesterol and fight against cancer. Saponins found in Gymnema leaves are called gymnemic acids, which are responsible for their anti-sweet properties. Other components with biological activities are anthraquinones, steroids and cardiac glycosides, alkaloids, terpenoids, flavonoids, and essential oils.

Gymnema has antibacterial, antihypercholesterolemic, hepatoprotective, and blood-sugar-lowering properties. Gymnema contains active compounds known as gymnemic acids, which interact with the taste receptors on the tongue and temporarily block the ability to taste sweetness. This mechanism can help those who have sugar cravings to reduce their sugar intake and manage their cravings. Gymnemic acids enhance insulin activity and reduce glucose absorption in the intestines. This makes it very appealing to individuals with diabetes or those who have insulin resistance. Gymnema has been traditionally used to support digestive health. It helps stimulate the production of digestive enzymes and improve nutrient absorption. Gymnema extract promotes the release of insulin from the beta-cells of the pancreas by activating protein kinases and interacting with calcium channels. It also helps stabilize the stored insulin levels in the beta-cells. Gymnema extract contains antioxidants that help break down fats, and increase liver glutathione and catalase activity. Gymnema helps manage diabetes through a few mechanisms: it slows down the absorption of glucose in the gut, stimulates the release of insulin from the pancreas, regenerates beta cells that produce insulin, and balances the usage and storage of glucose in the body. Additionally, it prevents dental cavities from bacteria. Gymnema’s anti-inflammatory properties are attributed to its tannins and saponins, which help fight against inflammatory diseases including arthritis. Researchers suggest that Gymnema helps decrease inflammatory mediator release, which further reduces bone loss and relieves arthritic pain.

Here are some amazing health benefits of Gymnema:

  • Supports healthy blood sugar levels and reduces sugar cravings.
  • Improves digestive functions.
  • Aids weight loss.
  • Reduces the risk of heart disease.
  • Prevents oral cavities.
  • Relieves arthritis symptoms.
  • Modulates immune system.

The usual suggested dosage for Gymnema supplementation is 100 mg 3-4 times per day. It is advised to start with a low dosage and increase your dosage gradually. You should pay close attention to any adverse effects. Gymnema tea is a simple way to enjoy its benefits. You can get Gymnema sylvestre tea online or at your local health food store. When used in the recommended doses, Gymnema is considered safe for use for adults, but it is not recommended for children and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Very high doses (over 1 g/day) may lower your blood sugar to harmful levels, which can lead to weakness, confusion, dizziness, and loss of muscle control. Liver toxicity can occur in people with a special sensitivity to the components (idiosyncratic reaction). Allergic reactions may occur, especially in people who are allergic to plants of the milkweed family. It is recommended to take the herb with meals. If you take it with an empty stomach, it may cause stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting.

By the way, I will be at the Metaphysical, Psychic & Wellness Fair at Knox Church in Parksville on June 8th, and it is a whole-day event. We are the creators of this new earth, and we all can contribute to this global shift that is right here and right now. I will be offering holistic health consultation, palm reading/face readings, tarot card readings, Sidereal astrology readings, etc. There are lots of gifted healers/Psychics and speakers there, the whole day is packed with action and excitement. I am looking forward to seeing you there. 

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