Prediabetes affects millions worldwide. It occurs when blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough for a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes.
Without treatment, the condition often progresses to diabetes and increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.
While healthy eating and regular exercise remain the cornerstone of prevention, many people find it difficult to maintain these habits.
Scientists are therefore exploring whether natural supplements might support better blood sugar control and improve cholesterol balance alongside lifestyle changes.
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The Italian research
According to a study published in Frontiers in Nutrition in November 2025, researchers in Italy conducted a six-month, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial involving 62 adults with prediabetes.
All participants followed a calorie-controlled diet, but only half received a daily supplement containing citrus and grape extracts, hesperidin, and chromium.
Each dose delivered 250 micrograms of chromium and 560 milligrams of flavonoids derived from lemon, red grape, and orange extracts.
Researchers measured blood glucose, insulin, and cholesterol levels at the beginning of the study, after three months, and again at six months.
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Promising results
After three months, participants taking the supplement had already reached normal fasting blood sugar levels.
By the end of the six-month period, their average glucose had dropped significantly, while “bad” LDL cholesterol decreased and “good” HDL cholesterol increased.
Triglyceride levels, another key marker of heart health, also fell noticeably.
In contrast, the placebo group saw only a slight improvement in blood sugar, and their triglyceride levels rose.
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No side effects were reported, suggesting the supplement was safe and well tolerated.
However, they caution that larger, multi-center studies are needed to confirm these early findings and assess their long-term effects.
Sources: News-Medical, and Frontiers in Nutrition.
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