New research indicates that a powder made from red ginseng can improve blood sugar control and sensitivity to insulin in people who are at high risk for developing type 2 diabetes, offering a natural way to manage glucose levels.
A study titled “Efficacy and Safety of Red Ginseng Extract Powder (KGC05pg) in Achieving Glycemic Control in Prediabetic Korean Adults: A 12-Week, Single-Center, Randomized, Double-Blind, Parallel-Group, Placebo-Controlled Study” was published in the journal Medicine. This research from the Korea Ginseng Corporation Research Institute aimed to assess both the safety and therapeutic benefits of red ginseng extract powder.
Researchers found that participants who took 500 milligrams of red ginseng extract powder twice a day for twelve weeks showed significant improvements in their fasting blood glucose levels, oral glucose tolerance tests at various time intervals post-meal (30, 60, 90, and 120 minutes), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) readings, insulin resistance markers like C-peptide level and insulinogenic index. They also noticed positive changes in the levels of glucagon-like peptide-1 and DPP-4 (dipeptidyl peptidase-4).
Despite no side effects or serious adverse events reported among those taking red ginseng extract powder, it’s noted that this was a small study involving only Korean adults. Larger trials with diverse populations would be required to ensure the generalizability of these findings and assess their broader applicability.
Korean red ginseng, made from steamed and dried fresh unpeeled ginseng roots, has long been used in traditional medicine across East Asia for its potential health benefits. It’s believed to support liver function, heart health, boost immunity among other wellness effects.
