14/11/2025
Today, on World Diabetes Day, we’re highlighting how adding polyphenol-rich foods to your daily diet can help support healthy blood sugar balance - naturally.
Polyphenols are powerful plant compounds found in colourful fruits, vegetables, teas and even dark chocolate. There’s a growing body of scientific research showing that they help the body process glucose more efficiently and reduce oxidative stress - both key factors in preventing insulin resistance and supporting long-term metabolic health.
When we keep blood sugar stable, we avoid the peaks and crashes often caused by a high-glycaemic Western diet. Over time, repeated spikes make it harder for insulin to work properly, increasing the risk of Type 2 diabetes.
Polyphenols play a fascinating role here - they help boost the activity of a natural hormone called GLP-1 (the same one targeted by Ozempic and other modern diabetes and weight-loss medications).
What does GLP-1 do?
It’s released from the gut after eating and helps:
✅ Control blood sugar levels
✅ Stimulate insulin release
✅ Improve muscle sensitivity to insulin - helping cells absorb more glucose for energy
✅ Prevent drastic highs and lows in energy and blood sugar
In addition to the GLP-1 boost, the powerful antioxidant activity of polyphenols also helps to protect the cells in your pancreas that produce insulin.
Adding polyphenol-rich foods is one of the simplest, most natural ways to support your body’s own glucose management system - whether you’re looking to prevent diabetes, reverse pre-diabetic blood sugar levels, or complement your current care plan.
💜 Great sources of polyphenols include: Berries, colourful vegetables, olive oil, legumes (lentils, beans, chickpeas), dark chocolate (80%+), black/green/matcha tea, coffee, red wine (in moderation!), nuts and seeds (walnuts, almonds, flaxseeds)
Even small daily changes can have a big impact over time.
Please like/share if you found this helpful - you'll find lots more information on the science of polyphenols on our website 💜
