Metabolic Superfood

Bael fiber is derived from a tree scientifically known as Aegle marmelos, which is native to India. It has been shown to have protective properties against type 2 diabetes through its ability to reduce insulin resistance.¹ Bael is also protective against diabetic complications, such as cataracts and nephropathy.^2,3 Additionally, bael fiber is reported to regulate the metabolism of fats and lipids, helping to ameliorate the effects of a poor, high-fat diet. This may also help inhibit fat accumulation, as well as reduce body mass index and lipid levels in the blood.⁴

Fenugreek is a clover-like herb that has been historically used to manage type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol. Recent studies have shown that fenugreek fiber supplementation helps modulate the composition of the microbiome, including increasing the populations of Akkermansia. Fenugreek fiber also increases the populations of beneficial bacteria that enhance the production of coprostanol, a compound resulting from the metabolism of cholesterol, which is excreted from the body as waste. As a result of increased cholesterol metabolism, blood cholesterol levels can decrease.⁵ In a meta analysis of clinical trials, fenugreek was shown to significantly improve symptoms of metabolic syndrome, a serious cluster of metabolic disorders. Significant improvements were observed in fasting plasma glucose, triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), waist circumference, and blood pressure.6 Additionally, fenugreek has been shown to modulate GLP-1 secretion, which helps regulate appetite.⁷

This complex sprout blend contains a variety of sprout types, providing a concentrated dose of phytonutrients. Notably, it includes the powerful phytochemical sulforaphane. Sulforaphane helps to improve glucose tolerance and inhibits the excessive production of glucose by the liver. These mechanisms may support patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity. Metabolic diseases can take a toll on cardiovascular health, and sulforaphane protects the cardiovascular system by activating the AMPK pathway, a critical mechanism in the regulation of cardiovascular health.^8,9 Additionally, sprouts have been shown to increase population levels of the keystone gut microbiome species Dorea longicatena.¹⁰

Chia seeds have recently gained recognition for their potential as a superfood. They have a high concentration of soluble fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, which supports the reduction of triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, blood pressure, body weight, and fasting blood glucose. Improper management of these health indicators can lead to complications such as metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease. Chia seed supplementation can be a simple yet powerful tool for managing the symptoms or risk of these conditions.^11–13

N-acetyl D-glucosamine (NAG) is a derivative of the glucose molecule that plays an important role in maintaining the intestinal lining. It reduces the permeability of the intestinal lining by increasing the expression of occludin, a tight junction protein. NAG can also enhance the populations of beneficial bacteria in the gut. Reversing dysbiosis and repairing the intestinal lining helps to reduce intestinal inflammation, which allows for proper nutrient absorption.¹⁴ Additionally, NAG can protect the heart and cardiovascular system as a whole from the stress and damage to the body caused by diabetes.¹⁵

Chondroitin sulfate is a critical building block of cartilage in humans and other animals. A common comorbidity of metabolic issues such as high blood pressure, atherosclerosis (plaque in the arteries), and coronary heart disease is osteoarthritis. Chondroitin supplementation, often combined with glucosamine, is incredibly effective for repairing and maintaining joint health.¹⁶ Additionally, chondroitin can inhibit the proinflammatory cytokine TNF-α, which directly protects the endothelial cells lining blood vessels and interferes with the development and progression of atherosclerosis.¹⁷

Mucin is a critical component of the mucus lining the gastrointestinal tract. The mucin molecule is a glycosylated protein, a protein covered in glucose molecules. This structure allows the molecule to become viscous, contributing to the overall consistency of mucus and enabling it to stick to and protect the gastrointestinal tract. Certain bacteria that live in the gut use mucin as a primary energy source. Various types of bacteria consume mucin, and for some, like Akkermansia muciniphila, this has a beneficial effect on both the gastrointestinal tract and the host. Even though A. municiphila consumes mucin, it actually stimulates the gastrointestinal tract to produce a more robust and healthy mucus barrier. In contrast, large concentrations of bacteria like Rumincoccus gnavus can degrade the mucus layer and lead to inflammation, leaky gut, autoimmune diseases, and dysbiosis. Mucin is included in this product to help establish healthy populations of A. municiphila, which is often absent or present at negligible levels in the modern human gut.^18,19

Chitosan is a derivative of the structural molecule chitin, which provides structure and protection for cells and tissues. Chitin is found abundantly in the exoskeletons of crustaceans and insects, and in the cell walls of mushrooms. When chitin is converted to chitosan, it becomes a bioactive molecule. Some of its biochemical effects are prebiotic, enhancing the populations of Lacticaseibacillus casei, Lactobacillus helveticus, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, and particularly Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus. It also suppresses populations of pathogenic bacteria such as Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. These effects help stabilize the gut microbiome and prevent or correct dysbiosis.²⁰ In a clinical trial, long-term consumption of chitosan was shown to significantly reduce body weight and improve A1C levels, all without additional dietary changes.²¹

Corn fiber is a great prebiotic especially for those looking to support their microbiome while following a low-FODMAP diet to reduce gastrointestinal irritation. Corn fiber also supports cardiometabolic health by reducing LDL cholesterol. This effect is hypothesized to be mediated by changes in the microbiome that improve dysbiosis, allowing for proper metabolism of bile acids, which in turn regulates cholesterol levels. Consuming corn fiber before meals may also improve glycemic response. By preventing large blood glucose spikes, it is thought to reduce the risk of developing insulin resistance.^22,23

Acemannan is a dietary fiber found in the aloe vera plant that supports digestive and metabolic health by increasing the sensation of satiety and slowing the release of sugars into the bloodstream food consumption. These benefits can reduce overeating and help prevent insulin resistance. Acemannan can be broken down by the keystone gut microbe Butyricicoccus pullicaecorum, producing butyrate, a critical metabolite for gastrointestinal, metabolic, and overall health.^24,25

Pea fiber improves glycemic control by slowing carbohydrate absorption, stabilizing blood sugar levels, and reducing fasting glucose levels. Additionally, pea fiber modulates gut microbiota, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria like Eubacterium rectale and Eubacterium hallii that produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which enhance insulin sensitivity. Pea fiber also contributes to better lipid metabolism by lowering fasting and postprandial triglyceride levels, thereby reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, its high fiber content promotes satiety, aiding in weight management, a key factor in metabolic health.^26–29

Senegalia catechu, commonly known as the Cutch Tree, has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties, particularly in gastrointestinal ailments. Recent studies have highlighted its potential benefits in supporting metabolic health. The heartwood extract of Acacia catechu is rich in flavonoids such as catechin and epicatechin, which exhibit strong antioxidant properties. These compounds act as insulin mimics, contributing to antidiabetic effects and enhancing heart function. Research indicates that epicatechin can improve insulin sensitivity and provide cardioprotective effects. Additionally, the antioxidant properties of these flavonoids help reduce oxidative stress, a factor implicated in metabolic disorders.³⁰

Pullulan is a polysaccharide produced by the fungus Aureobasidium pullulans. It has been shown to support metabolic health by modulating postprandial glycemic responses. A study involving healthy adults demonstrated that consumption of pullulan significantly reduced peak blood glucose levels after eating, which may help reduce the risk of developing insulin resistance.³¹

Althaea officinalis, commonly known as marshmallow root, is a plant traditionally used to treat gastrointestinal issues such as ulcers. It supports healthy populations of microbes in the gut, and some of the specific polysaccharides in this plant help coat the intestinal tract, aiding in the healing and rejuvenation of the gastrointestinal lining.³²

Camel milk can help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. Clinical trials show that camel milk has anti-inflammatory properties, which can aid in reducing oxidative stress and promoting overall metabolic function. Additionally, it is lower in fat and cholesterol compared to cow’s milk, making it a heart-healthy alternative that may help manage weight and reduce the risk of metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The keystone gut microbiome species Christensenella minuta thrives on the galacto-oligosaccharides found in dairy, such as camel milk.^33–36