Conversely, Monday’s sharp bearish retracement to a seven-day low that included a breakdown below the 10-day average. There was a chance that the 10-day average would show signs of support but instead Tuesday’s high successfully tested resistance at the 10-day line, confirming a flip from support to resistance. That is bearish behavior. In addition, a narrow range inside day inverted hammer pattern formed below the 10-day average and in the lower third of Monday’s trading range. That is also bearish behavior, which confirmed today with a breakdown from that inside day, followed by further bearish signs.
Monthly Structure Adds Downside Pressure
This puts gold at a critical support zone that is at risk of failure. The monthly chart adds to that risk, as it shows overhead supply keeping downward pressure on prices. A potentially bearish monthly shooting star candlestick pattern has formed for December. The low for the month and therefore a key pivot is December’s low of $4,164. This is interesting since a sustained drop below today’s low puts gold in a position to challenge support near the 50-day average, now at $4,174, above this month’s low.
50-Day Average Marks Critical Defense Zone
Keep in mind that the potentially bearish monthly pattern is not valid until there is a breakdown below December’s low. Until then strong support is anticipated near the 50-day line, now at $4,175. But given the bearish monthly pattern, new trend highs in January seems unlikely, and an inside month more likely.
Bullish Reversal Requires Key Levels to Reclaim
Alternatively, if support holds near the 20-day average and is followed by bullish signs, the long-term bull trend could reassert itself as a short-term pullback completes. It is interesting to note that Wednesday’s weakness shows a break below the near-term uptrend line, adding to potential downside risk. A sustained advance above today’s high of $4,373 would show a one-day bullish reversal and the potential for further upside.
For a look at all of today’s economic events, check out our economic calendar.
Omega-3s benefit the brain, heart, eyes, skin, hair and gut.
Shoot for 120 mg of DHA , 180 mg of EPA and 1.6 grams of ALA daily.
Omega-3s are found in fatty fish, seaweed, nuts and seeds.
Best known for heart and brain health, omega-3s are a small, yet powerful, family of polyunsaturated fats. There are different types of omega-3s, including alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which is found in plants—like walnuts, chia seeds, soybeans, flaxseed and soybean oil. Omega-3s docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) are only found in fish, shellfish and marine algae.
On average, adults consume only 90 to 110 of the daily 250 milligrams of omega-3s that have been shown to protect against death from heart disease. And while this amount can be found in a couple of servings of fatty fish each week, many are still missing the mark.
“Most people avoid seafood because they don’t like the taste, texture or smell,” says Valerie Agyeman, RD. Others don’t know how to prepare it.
For this reason, people are turning to supplementing omega-3s. Omega-3 supplements typically supply EPA and DHA derived from:
Fish oil from anchovies or sardines. But they may also be made from other fatty fish like salmon, tuna or pollock.
Krill oil comes from tiny crustaceans called krill.
Cod liver oil, as the name implies, is obtained from cod fish liver.
Algae oil is derived from marine microalgae, making it the only vegan DHA and EPA source.
If you’re thinking of supplementing with omega-3s, here are a few things to know first.
Getty Images
Why We Love Omega-3s
They May Reduce Heart Attack Risk
In addition to lowering blood pressure and triglycerides, omega-3s may also prevent blood clots that can lead to heart attacks. They are so helpful that one meta-analysis of 40 clinical trials found that people who took DHA/EPA supplements were 13% less likely to have a heart attack, and those who did were 35% less likely to die.
They May Improve Brain Function
Your brain is roughly 60% fat, and 10% to 20% of that fat is DHA. There, it fortifies the delicate membranes that protect your brain cells, making it critical for short- and long-term cognitive health. “Observational studies suggest that people whose diets are higher in omega-3 fats have a lower risk of cognitive decline,” says Monica Reinagel, M.S., LDN, CNS. “And there’s limited data to suggest that omega-3 supplementation might also have some beneficial effects.”
“Most people avoid seafood because they don’t like the taste, texture or smell.”
—Valerie Agyeman, RD.
They May Protect Against Depression
While studies have been mixed, there is mounting evidence in the direction of omega-3s and their anti-depressive effects. For example, one review found that studies show a connection between omega-3 intake and lower risk of depression. Researchers believe this is partly due to the gut-brain axis, which refers to the bidirectional communication network linking the intestinal microbial ecosystem with neural, endocrine, and immune pathways that regulate brain function. Essentially, omega-3s help your brain by helping create a healthier gut.
They Might Support Vision
Research reveals that DHA may tame the inflammation that causes dryness and boost tear production for better lubrication. There is also evidence that omega-3s play an important role in the development and protection of the retina, and in the prevention of macular degeneration. And supplementation with omega-3s, especially DHA, may improve visual development in infants and schoolchildren.
They May Promote a Healthy Pregnancy
One study comparing pregnant women who supplemented with omega-3s and those who didn’t suggests that omega-3s may have positive effects in many areas of women’s health, including cardiovascular function, fertility, fetal development and improved pregnancy outcomes.
“EPA and DHA from fish are critical for a mother’s brain and heart health,” says Agyeman. “They also support a baby’s normal brain development, which rapidly accelerates during the last trimester.”
Omega-3 Deficiency
If you’re severely lacking omega-3s in your diet, you may experience the following symptoms:
rough, scaly skin
red, swollen, itchy rash
dry eyes
Changes in hair texture and volume may also occur.
How Much You Need
While the United States doesn’t have a specific total omega-3 recommendation, the European Food Safety Authority recommends consuming 250 mg of EPA plus DHA daily (350 to 450 mg if you are pregnant or nursing). The National Institutes of Health does have an average daily recommended amount for ALA, which is 1.6 grams and 1.1 grams for men and women, respectively.
Food Sources
You’ll find omega-3s in a variety of foods, including:
Fatty fish: including salmon, tuna, mackerel and sardines
Nuts and seeds: like walnuts, chia seeds, soybeans, flaxseeds and hemp hearts
Marine plants: algae, including chlorella and spirulina, and seaweeds
Are Omega-3s Safe for Everyone?
“Omega-3 fatty acids reduce the tendency of blood to form clots, and in some cases, this is desirable,” says Reinagel. “But for someone at risk of excessive bleeding, it might be harmful.” Speak to a healthcare practitioner if you take blood thinners or plan to have surgery or a dental procedure.
There is also evidence linking omega-3 supplementation to a higher risk of atrial fibrillation, a type of irregular heartbeat. This is another reason to discuss supplementation first with a healthcare practitioner.
What to Look for in an Omega-3 Supplement
As of March 2023, the United States doesn’t have an official omega-3 recommendation. According to the Food and Drug Administration, taking up to 5,000 mg daily is safe.
Soft gels are the most popular form of omega-3 supplements. They come in different sizes, so if you aren’t a fan of large pills, you can take several small ones instead. To prevent “fish burps,” look for enteric-coated capsules. “If swallowing pills isn’t your thing, try fish oil liquids or emulsions,” says Elana Natker, RD, director of consumer and health practitioner communications at the Global Organization for EPA & DHA Omega-3s. “Many emulsions are flavored to mask the fish taste, and there are also gummies or soft chews that have a pleasant flavor.”
Since EPA and DHA have slightly different benefits, look for a supplement that contains both. The average omega-3 supplement contains roughly 120 mg of DHA and 180 mg of EPA, although this varies from brand to brand.
Fish oil supplements contain lower levels of mercury, PCBs, dioxins and other environmental contaminants than fresh fish, says Natker. “Plus, manufacturers purify the oil to reduce the level of environmental contaminants,” she says. If you want extra assurance, look for products that have been independently verified and tested for contaminants.
In addition to checking the “best by” date on the package, follow your nose. “Fish oil supplements will naturally smell a bit like fish,” says Natker. “But if it has a bad odor or smells rancid, you should probably toss it.”
Our Expert Take
An omega-3 supplement may make sense if you don’t eat a couple of servings of fish per week, but it won’t provide other nutrients in fish like lean protein, potassium, B vitamins and selenium. So think fish first, supplements second. And be sure to also include nuts and seeds in your diet to get plenty of ALA.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a best time to take omega-3s?
What Is the recommended daily dose for omega-3s?
The European Food Safety Authority recommends consuming 250 mg of EPA plus DHA daily (350 to 450 mg if you are pregnant or nursing). Regarding ALA, the NIH recommends 1.6 grams for men and 1.1 grams for women daily.
How do you know if you need to take omega-3s?
You may not need a supplement if you eat two weekly servings of fatty fish. However, if you have heart disease, are pregnant or are vegan, talk to a healthcare practitioner to determine if supplementation is right for you.
Who should avoid taking omega-3s?
Because omega-3s reduce the ability of blood to form clots, this could be harmful for those on blood thinners or having surgery. Always discuss taking omega-3 supplements with a healthcare practitioner.
Marks & Spencer is launching a range of foods tailored to people taking weight-loss injections as use of the drugs accelerates in the UK.
The new range of 20 “nutrient-dense” products from the retailer is aimed at customers taking GLP-1 weight-loss medications, as supermarkets increasingly adapt to the impact the drugs are having on shopping baskets.
The range will go on sale in M&S foodhalls from January 5 and includes salads, meals and bread designed to deliver high levels of fibre, vitamins and minerals in smaller portions.
There has been a dramatic rise in the use of GLP-1 drugs in the UK. Online searches and private prescriptions have increased sharply, driven by their effectiveness for weight loss and widespread media attention. About 1.5 million people in the UK are now estimated to be accessing GLP-1 treatment privately, while NHS England prescriptions for the injections have risen by around 900 per cent since 2020.
GLP-1 medications — known formally as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists — were originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes by helping to regulate blood sugar. In recent years, drugs such as semaglutide (sold as Ozempic for diabetes and Wegovy for weight loss) and tirzepatide (sold as Mounjaro) have surged in popularity for their weight-loss effects, as they suppress appetite, slow digestion and signal fullness to the brain.
Nutrient-dense foods are those that provide a concentrated source of vitamins, minerals, fibre, healthy fats and protein relative to their calorie content. M&S said the range was developed by its nutritionists in consultation with the British Nutrition Foundation, using criteria that ensure each product delivers more nutrients per mouthful.
M&S said the new range had been developed to address the nutritional challenges that can arise when people eat less, whether due to medication, age or lifestyle. A reduced appetite can make it harder to consume enough fibre and essential nutrients, increasing the risk of deficiencies and digestive side effects such as constipation.
Grace Ricotti, M&S head of food nutrition, said: “Our nutrient-dense range is perfect for customers looking to support their health as each recipe is packed with the key nutrients we all need in our diets.
“With the increase in popularity of weight-loss injections, a reduced appetite can mean missing out on important nutrients and that’s why nutrient density is so important.
“These new meals, snacks and drinks can help everyone get more fibre, vitamins and minerals in their diet.”
Supermarkets and consumer goods companies are increasingly catering to households using the drugs. Morrisons was the first UK supermarket to announce a dedicated “GLP-1 friendly” range, developed with sports nutrition brand Applied Nutrition, under its “Small & Balanced” banner. Nestlé, the consumer goods giant, has launched a frozen food brand in the US aimed at GLP-1 users, while Haleon, the British multinational consumer healthcare company, has introduced a multivitamin designed to help replenish nutrients for people eating less.
The trend is expected to accelerate further as GLP-1 medications move beyond injections. Tablet versions are beginning to reach the market, with US regulators approving an oral version of Wegovy and rival pills expected to follow, potentially widening access to the drugs.
While the drugs are approved for diabetes and obesity treatment, clinicians have raised concerns about the number of people accessing them outside clinical pathways for cosmetic weight loss. The long-term consequences of widespread use are still being studied, particularly as lower calorie intake can increase the risk of nutrient deficiencies if diets are not carefully managed.
Marks & Spencer is launching a range of foods tailored to people taking weight-loss injections as use of the drugs accelerates in the UK.
The new range of 20 “nutrient-dense” products from the retailer is aimed at customers taking GLP-1 weight-loss medications, as supermarkets increasingly adapt to the impact the drugs are having on shopping baskets.
The range will go on sale in M&S foodhalls from January 5 and includes salads, meals and bread designed to deliver high levels of fibre, vitamins and minerals in smaller portions.
There has been a dramatic rise in the use of GLP-1 drugs in the UK. Online searches and private prescriptions have increased sharply, driven by their effectiveness for weight loss and widespread media attention. About 1.5 million people in the UK are now estimated to be accessing GLP-1 treatment privately, while NHS England prescriptions for the injections have risen by around 900 per cent since 2020.
GLP-1 medications — known formally as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists — were originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes by helping to regulate blood sugar. In recent years, drugs such as semaglutide (sold as Ozempic for diabetes and Wegovy for weight loss) and tirzepatide (sold as Mounjaro) have surged in popularity for their weight-loss effects, as they suppress appetite, slow digestion and signal fullness to the brain.
Nutrient-dense foods are those that provide a concentrated source of vitamins, minerals, fibre, healthy fats and protein relative to their calorie content. M&S said the range was developed by its nutritionists in consultation with the British Nutrition Foundation, using criteria that ensure each product delivers more nutrients per mouthful.
M&S said the new range had been developed to address the nutritional challenges that can arise when people eat less, whether due to medication, age or lifestyle. A reduced appetite can make it harder to consume enough fibre and essential nutrients, increasing the risk of deficiencies and digestive side effects such as constipation.
Grace Ricotti, M&S head of food nutrition, said: “Our nutrient-dense range is perfect for customers looking to support their health as each recipe is packed with the key nutrients we all need in our diets.
“With the increase in popularity of weight-loss injections, a reduced appetite can mean missing out on important nutrients and that’s why nutrient density is so important.
“These new meals, snacks and drinks can help everyone get more fibre, vitamins and minerals in their diet.”
Supermarkets and consumer goods companies are increasingly catering to households using the drugs. Morrisons was the first UK supermarket to announce a dedicated “GLP-1 friendly” range, developed with sports nutrition brand Applied Nutrition, under its “Small & Balanced” banner. Nestlé, the consumer goods giant, has launched a frozen food brand in the US aimed at GLP-1 users, while Haleon, the British multinational consumer healthcare company, has introduced a multivitamin designed to help replenish nutrients for people eating less.
The trend is expected to accelerate further as GLP-1 medications move beyond injections. Tablet versions are beginning to reach the market, with US regulators approving an oral version of Wegovy and rival pills expected to follow, potentially widening access to the drugs.
While the drugs are approved for diabetes and obesity treatment, clinicians have raised concerns about the number of people accessing them outside clinical pathways for cosmetic weight loss. The long-term consequences of widespread use are still being studied, particularly as lower calorie intake can increase the risk of nutrient deficiencies if diets are not carefully managed.
In the past 7 days, the token has gained 3.3% after bouncing off $118 last Thursday. Yesterday, the FOMC minutes were released. They showed split views among the Committee members regarding this month’s rate cut.
The cut was approved by 9 out of 12 members, this being the most dissented decision since 2019, before the pandemic hit.
Meanwhile, the Committee sees the possibility of further cuts ahead as long as inflation starts to decline rapidly. This gives market participants a hint of what kind of scenario will play in favor of risky assets.
If inflation in December and January drops sharply, they may expect more favorable macroeconomic conditions ahead, which should boost the price of cryptocurrencies down the road.
Transaction Volumes Decline Sharply as Interest in Meme Coins Wanes
Solana’s on-chain metrics show that the network’s activity has steadily declined in both November and December compared to October’s peak. Data from DeFi Llama shows that DEX volumes have increased by 11% in the past week, but they will still close the month nearly a third lower compared to October.
Meanwhile, Artemis data shows that monthly active users within the Solana blockchain have declined sharply from a peak of 6.7 million back in November 2024 to 3 million at the time of writing, reflecting much lower interest in Solana meme coins.
Silver price (XAG/USD) has pared its nearly a 4.5% gain registered in the previous session, trading around $72.20 during the European hours on Wednesday. However, Silver prices are on track for an annual gain of over 150% in 2025, marking the metal’s strongest yearly performance.
The technical analysis of the daily chart timeframe suggests the price of the precious metal remains within an ascending channel pattern, suggesting a persistent bullish bias. The 14-day Relative Strength Index (RSI) prints 63.53, reinforcing positive momentum after cooling from extreme readings.
Silver price holds above the rising nine-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) and well above the 50-day EMA, preserving a bullish bias. The short-term average stands firmly above the medium-term gauge, and the spread has widened, underscoring trend strength.
Holding above the short-term average would keep the topside in focus and could open a path toward resistance at the upper boundary of the ascending channel around $80.00. A break above the channel would help the Silver price to approach the record high of $85.87, which was recorded on December 29.
On the downside, the Silver price could test the immediate support at the nine-day EMA of $71.54, followed by the lower ascending channel boundary around $70.00. A daily close below the channel would open a correction toward the 50-day EMA at $59.32.
XAG/USD: Daily Chart
Silver FAQs
Silver is a precious metal highly traded among investors. It has been historically used as a store of value and a medium of exchange. Although less popular than Gold, traders may turn to Silver to diversify their investment portfolio, for its intrinsic value or as a potential hedge during high-inflation periods. Investors can buy physical Silver, in coins or in bars, or trade it through vehicles such as Exchange Traded Funds, which track its price on international markets.
Silver prices can move due to a wide range of factors. Geopolitical instability or fears of a deep recession can make Silver price escalate due to its safe-haven status, although to a lesser extent than Gold’s. As a yieldless asset, Silver tends to rise with lower interest rates. Its moves also depend on how the US Dollar (USD) behaves as the asset is priced in dollars (XAG/USD). A strong Dollar tends to keep the price of Silver at bay, whereas a weaker Dollar is likely to propel prices up. Other factors such as investment demand, mining supply – Silver is much more abundant than Gold – and recycling rates can also affect prices.
Silver is widely used in industry, particularly in sectors such as electronics or solar energy, as it has one of the highest electric conductivity of all metals – more than Copper and Gold. A surge in demand can increase prices, while a decline tends to lower them. Dynamics in the US, Chinese and Indian economies can also contribute to price swings: for the US and particularly China, their big industrial sectors use Silver in various processes; in India, consumers’ demand for the precious metal for jewellery also plays a key role in setting prices.
Silver prices tend to follow Gold’s moves. When Gold prices rise, Silver typically follows suit, as their status as safe-haven assets is similar. The Gold/Silver ratio, which shows the number of ounces of Silver needed to equal the value of one ounce of Gold, may help to determine the relative valuation between both metals. Some investors may consider a high ratio as an indicator that Silver is undervalued, or Gold is overvalued. On the contrary, a low ratio might suggest that Gold is undervalued relative to Silver.
(The technical analysis of this story was written with the help of an AI tool.)
A new matcha and tea café, Unique Green Tea, has opened in Downtown Bellevue, introducing AI-powered beverage preparation to the local tea scene. The café is located at 308 105th Avenue Northeast and marks the brand’s first location in Washington state.
Unique Green Tea is currently in a soft opening period through January 2, with its grand opening scheduled for January 3.
The location was previously occupied by Chicha San Chen, which has since moved to Bellevue Square. Prior to that, the space housed Aqua S., a premium soft serve shop.
Founded in 2024 by Taiwan’s beverage group Sharetea, Unique Green Tea operates as a franchise business and is designed around a modern tea concept that integrates AI brewing technology. The system allows each drink to be prepared in approximately seven seconds while maintaining consistent quality.
The café’s menu includes pure tea, milk tea, Uji matcha, fruit tea, tea espresso, and smoothies.
The brand’s signature beverage, Fifteen Jasmine Flowers Green Tea, is crafted using a traditional triple scenting method, infusing the aroma of 15 real jasmine flowers into each cup. Additional popular offerings include Osmanthus Light Oolong, Red Oolong, and Peach Oolong.
An expert analyst’s Bitcoin price prediction revealed a relief rally fractal pointing to a $130,000 target.
DragonFly managing partner Qureshi shared a more bullish perspective, targeting $150,000 by 2026.
The partner pointed out that the next market cycle is unlikely to reshape the industry. Instead, he believes it will extend trends already in motion.
A recent Bitcoin price prediction by an expert analyst spotlighted a relief rally bull fractal targeting the $130,000 level. Meanwhile, a managing partner of DragonFly shared more optimism on an X post with a bold prediction of a $150,000 BTC price by 2026.
As per the Titan of Crypto, a Bitcoin price prediction of $130,000 is realistic. It is based on a recent relief rally fractal that appeared on the 2-day Bitcoin USD chart.
On the higher timeframe, Bitcoin topped after a strong run and then slipped into a sharp correction. We have seen this before. In the previous cycle, BTC price stalled near the highs, dropped into demand, and then paused before rebounding.
The current structure looks very similar. Price was turned away once more at the top of the range. It has slipped back toward a zone that previously attracted buyers. That area matters because it’s where demand showed up last time.
While price pushed lower, RSI did not. Instead, it formed higher lows. That bullish divergence signals fading selling pressure. In the past, this setup often marked the end of the correction and the start of a relief bounce.
Bitcoin Price Prediction | Source: Titan of Crypto
The pullback itself also appears controlled, with the price drifting lower without breaking down. That distinction matters. Strong trends typically retreat gradually instead of collapsing suddenly.
First came the rejection, and then the pullback into support. Now that momentum is resetting, the market is behaving exactly as expected so far.
If the pattern continues to hold, Bitcoin could be preparing for a relief rally once this consolidation phase is complete.
DragonFly Exec Made Bitcoin Price Prediction of $150,000 by 2026
DragonFly managing partner Qureshi is firmly bullish on Bitcoin (BTC) over the long term. He expects the price to trade above $150,000 by the end of 2026. However, he does not expect that move to increase Bitcoin’s market dominance.
Writing on X, Qureshi said the next market cycle is unlikely to reshape the industry. Instead, he believes it will extend trends already in motion.
He believes investors are shifting away from quick, high-risk bets. Now, they are looking for projects that last, reach more people, and have real-world use. After years of big ups and downs, he sees this as a sign that the market is growing up.
Because of this, Qureshi expects Bitcoin (BTC) to comprise a smaller portion of the overall cryptocurrency market. He sees this as a good thing since it allows the rest of the crypto world to grow while Bitcoin stays at the center.
While Bitcoin’s role looks secure, Qureshi is far less convinced about newer blockchain networks, especially those built around fintech-style narratives. He believes much of the current excitement could fade once real-world usage falls short of expectations.
In particular, he pointed to key metrics that may disappoint over time. Wallet activity, stablecoin transaction volumes, and the adoption of tokenized assets could all miss current forecasts. If that happens, Qureshi argues, the long-term viability of some of these platforms will come under serious pressure.
Dominion Energy, Inc. (D) declined in its latest intraday trading, amid continued negative and dynamic pressure from trading below its 50-period simple moving average. This comes while a corrective bearish wave dominates the short term, following the stock’s earlier break of a main ascending trendline. In addition, a bearish crossover is beginning to appear on the RSI after reaching extremely overbought levels.
Therefore we expect the stock price to decline further in the upcoming trading sessions, as long as resistance at $60.25 holds, to target the support level at $57.55.
Many people with diabetes or prediabetes try supplements to help control their blood sugar. However, some supplements can change how prescription diabetes drugs work—either by lowering blood sugar too much, or by affecting how much your body absorbs the drug.
1. Berberine
Berberine can add to metformin’s effects, meaning stronger glucose-lowering and gastrointestinal (GI) effects
Studies and reviews have shown similar mechanisms between berberine and metformin. For example, both can help reduce the amount of glucose produced by your liver. This can lead to additive or synergistic effects when taken together, so your blood sugar may drop too low. The similar effects also mean that GI side effects can be worsened.
Talk to your healthcare provider before planning to take berberine. If you are also taking metformin or another glucose-lowering medication, you may need to closely monitor your blood sugar levels and review your dosing with your provider.
2. Cinnamon
Cinnamon can increase the risk of low blood sugar when combined with medications.
Cinnamon and cinnamon extracts have been reported in multiple trials and reviews to modestly lower fasting glucose and hemoglobin A1c (average blood sugar level over two or three months) in some people.
This effect means that cinnamon supplements can enhance the glucose-lowering effect of prescription medications, such as sulfonylureas or insulin, especially when taken in concentrated form rather than as a sprinkle of the spice.
Clinical evidence is mixed, but caution is warranted. “Natural” doesn’t mean harmless, and you should check your blood glucose more often if you start taking a cinnamon supplement.
3. Ginseng
Unpredictable effects mean ginseng may increase or decrease the effect of prescription diabetes medications.
Different ginseng preparations (e.g., American, Asian) and study designs produce inconsistent results, but studies show that ginseng can affect insulin secretion, glucose uptake, and postprandial (after a meal) glucose.
In individuals already taking oral blood sugar-lowering drugs or insulin, ginseng may have the potential to cause additive glucose-lowering effects, which can lead to hypoglycemia (too low blood sugar), or alter their responses to these medications.
Commercial ginseng products can vary widely in potency and formulation. Be sure to consult with your healthcare provider before starting this supplement.
4. St. John’s Wort
St. John’s wort may change drug metabolism, affecting how much of your diabetes medications get absorbed.
St. John’s wort increases the activity of CYP3A4 (a drug-metabolizing enzyme in the body) and certain drug transporters (proteins responsible for drug absorption, distribution, and elimination). As a result, it can reduce the blood levels of medications that share these pathways. For this reason, it is notorious for interacting with many different medications.
While many diabetes drugs do not get broken down by the CYP3A4 enzyme, St. John’s wort has been shown to alter the way metformin works in your body in at least one trial. It can also interact with many other medications.
Because of its unpredictability with interactions, it’s recommended to avoid combining St. John’s wort with complex medication regimens without supervision from your healthcare provider.
5. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera can lower glucose and interact with diabetes medications.
Aloe vera has been studied for its effects on processes that contribute to high blood sugar levels. Studies suggest that it may be beneficial in reducing fasting glucose and hemoglobin A1c levels, particularly in stabilizing blood sugar levels after meals.
However, the extent to which aloe vera affects blood sugar levels is unknown. Tell your healthcare provider if you are taking an aloe vera supplement. Keep in mind that aloe vera formulations also vary, and some can cause side effects, such as GI upset.
6. Chromium
Chromium supplementation has shown modest improvements in insulin sensitivity and hemoglobin A1c in some studies. Other studies have shown benefit only in people with poor nutritional status or already low chromium levels.
Because chromium can enhance insulin action, using it with a prescription blood sugar-lowering drug can raise the risk of hypoglycemia, especially if the doses are higher than those found in multivitamins.
According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Institute of Medicine, it is safe when taken at a dose of 200 micrograms daily for up to six months.
Keep in mind, chromium supplements may also carry side effect risks like GI upset or headaches. Caution should be used if you have kidney or liver issues. Talk to your healthcare provider about whether chromium supplements may be beneficial for you.
Always inform your healthcare provider and/or pharmacist about any supplements and include them on your list of medications—even “natural” ones—so medication dosing and monitoring plans can be adjusted as needed.
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
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