As more brands launch their own alternatives, we ask top dieticians - do anti-glucose spike supplements actually work?

Pop the term "glucose spike" into any search engine right now and you'll be inundated with results. Over the past couple of years, there's been a huge interest in how our blood glucose levels fluctuate throughout the day, with advice on managing spikes ranging from clothing our carbs (adding protein or fats to carbohydrates to flatten their associated sugar spike) to investing in continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) or even taking anti glucose spike supplements.

Among the noise around glucose is some compelling research (such as this study, published in the journal Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine) showing a link between blood sugar spikes and inflammation, which can lead to cardiovascular disease and other conditions.

All this is to say, we know that inflammation in the body is not a good thing. While glucose levels naturally fluctuate throughout the day according to what we're eating and when, it's generally accepted that if our blood sugar levels are wildly swinging from high to low, we're likely to suffer both long and short-term health implications, from low mood, fatigue, feeling cold and hungry to potentially developing more serious health complications.

This has led to a surge in wellness influencers promoting ways to control our insulin peaks and troughs, with anti-glucose spike supplements being hailed as a natural cure-all. Spearheaded by biochemist Jesse Inchauspé (aka The Glucose Goddess), Inchauspé launched her controversial anti-spike supplement last year, and the backlash from the nutrition community was - well, immediate. Experts have challenged the scientific backing behind Inchauspé's product as well doubting its efficacy and necessity (or lack of).

But she's far from alone: similar anti-glucose spike supplements are popping up left, right and centre RN. We know that supplements that promise the world are, for the most part, nothing more than expensive fads, but wanted to ask top experts whether these newly trending pills are any different.

Scroll for their honest take on the viral anti-glucose spike supplements. Do they really work, and - more importantly - do we actually need them? For more on all things glucose, read our explainers on inflammation diets, glucose monitors and blood sugar spikes, here. Wondering, do the Glucose Goddess hacks work? Senior Health Editor Ally Head explores, here.

Anti glucose spike supplements are trending, but what do the experts think?

What are anti glucose spike supplements?

First up, let's take a look at what the supplements actually are. "Anti-glucose spike supplements are supplements designed to help regulate blood sugar levels and prevent sharp spikes in blood glucose after having a meal," explains registered nutritional therapist and director of Ardere Wellbeing, Lauren Windas. "They typically contain ingredients such as cinnamon, chromium, berberine and alpha-lipoic acid that help to slow down the absorption of glucose, improve insulin sensitivity and enhance glucose metabolism."

What are the purported benefits of anti glucose spike supplements?

Sweeping scepticism aside for a second, there are some legitimate benefits to not having massive blood sugar spikes. Research (such as this study, published in the PLOS Biology journal) shows that many people have so-called "covert" glucose spikes (ie not related to an insulin sensitivity such as diabetes) which increase their risk of developing cardiovascular disease and insulin resistance, a known precursor to diabetes.

The aim of the supplements is to naturally flatten out these spikes, resulting (ideally) in more sustained energy levels, and reducing the associated risks of spikes. "The goal of anti-glucose spike supplements is to minimise rapid blood sugar increases after meals," notes Harley Street nutritionist, Clarissa Lenherr. "This could, in theory, reduce insulin resistance over time by preventing repeated spikes, help manage cravings and energy crashes linked to glucose fluctuations and support metabolic health by keeping glucose levels more stable."

And there is some expert support for the claims, as registered dietician and author of How Not To Eat Ultra-Processed, Nichola Ludlam-Raine explains. "Some ingredients in these supplements, such as vinegar and soluble fibre, may slow carbohydrate absorption, leading to a more gradual rise in blood glucose," she tells MC UK. "Over time, better blood glucose control may help to support weight management, reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, improve energy levels, and encourage more stable hunger hormones."

However, it's important to note that any evidence is purely anecdotal, and while some ingredients may have scientific backing, there haven't been any clinical trials on the supplements as a whole - but more on this below.

"While some ingredients may have modest benefits, whole food sources (like fibre-rich meals, protein, and healthy fats) remain the most effective and evidence-based way to manage blood sugar 'spikes'," advises Ludlam-Raine. "If someone is considering an anti-glucose spike supplement, I’d recommend speaking to a registered dietitian or healthcare provider first to ensure it's safe and suitable for their individual needs."

Who are anti glucose spike supplements useful for?

All this being said, there may be some benefits for some people taking the supplements - or, at the very least, being aware of how their body deals with food.

"Anti-glucose spike supplements may be of interest to individuals with insulin resistance, prediabetes, or type 2 diabetes, but they should never replace medical treatment or dietary changes," says Ludlam-Raine. "For most people, a balanced diet is the best way to manage blood sugar levels rather than relying on supplements."

And there are many ways that we can all support our blood sugar balance through daily habits, according to registered nutritional therapist and clinical director at Integral Wellness, Natalie Louise Burrows.

"Sustainable dietary and lifestyle changes remain the foundation of long-term health," she says. "Shifting our focus toward whole, nutrient-dense eating is far more impactful than seeking a quick fix, and for the majority of people, enjoying a slice of cake is not an issue; our body will naturally regulate it with appropriate insulin sensitivity. If blood sugar levels are generally balanced, occasional spikes are not a cause for concern."

What does the current research into anti glucose spike supplements say?

Depending on which anti-glucose spike supplement you're looking at, some of the ingredients may have undergone scientific testing, but none of the supplements currently on offer have had rigorous testing for efficacy once the ingredients have been combined.

"While some of the ingredients in the supplements have been individually studied for their effects on blood sugar, the supplements themselves haven't undergone clinical trials," notes Burrows. "This means that while the components may have benefits, their combined effectiveness remains unproven."

Do anti glucose spike supplements actually work?

Well, the jury's out. Anecdotally, some people do report feeling fewer energy crashes on the supplements, but the experts warn that there is little to no actual science behind the claims.

"The majority of research suggests that the benefits [of taking the supplements] may be small, and importantly, we do not have clinical studies on the entire supplement formula to confirm real-world effects," cautions Lenherr. "Most studies have only looked at individual ingredients, and even those studies often have limitations such as small sample sizes and short durations. While some ingredients have promising preliminary research, the efficacy of these supplements - especially in individuals without diabetes - remains uncertain."

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