Citrus Bioflavonoids: A Natural Approach to Managing Glucose Levels in Healthy Individuals

  • By Dr. Patricia Shelton

Published: November 12, 2024

📝 Medically reviewed by Dr. Patricia Shelton

🔍 Last updated October 31, 2024

📚 9 citations

📖 7 minute read

 

About the Author:

 

Dr. Patricia Shelton, MD, has been a medical communicator and educator since 2014. She holds a Doctor of Medicine degree and a Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience, both from the University of Washington in Seattle.

--

In recent years, research has highlighted bioflavonoids from citrus fruits as a promising natural approach for managing blood sugar levels already in normal range in healthy individuals. These plant compounds, particularly abundant in the peel of lemons, oranges, and grapefruits, have shown potential benefits for glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity, two critical factors in maintaining balanced blood sugar. The need for effective, natural options is growing as more people seek alternatives or complements to traditional management strategies.

Jump to:

Featured
Front view of Level Off dietary supplement bottle, formulated to regulate glucose spikes from carbs and sugar, featuring white mulberry leaf, lemon peel extract, and cinnamon for glucose monitoring and supporting GLP-1 pathways.
Side view of Level Off supplement with detailed ingredient list, featuring white mulberry leaf, cinnamon extract, and antioxidants. Ideal for glucose regulation and reducing glucose spikes after meals. Supports those with insulin resistance, pre-diabetes, and those seeking to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Key benefits of healthy glucose regulation, including better energy, fewer cravings, and improved metabolic health. Designed to manage glucose spikes from carbs and sugar, reduce sugar cravings, and support balanced energy and weight management.
Detailed breakdown of Level Off's ingredients: white mulberry leaf, lemon extract, cinnamon, and antioxidants. Formulated to support glucose regulation, reduce insulin resistance, and manage blood sugar spikes after meals.
Research-based glucose support supplement featuring herbal extracts such as white mulberry leaf, lemon extract, and cinnamon. Designed for glucose regulation, anti-spike properties, and antioxidant support.
Level Off by Natural Cure Labs, a premium dietary supplement trusted for glucose regulation and reducing glucose spikes. Non-GMO, vegan, gluten-free, and made with high-quality ingredients like white mulberry leaf, cinnamon, and citrus bioflavonoids. Lab tested and GMP certified for safety.
Comparison chart of Level Off versus other products, highlighting Level Off's glucose regulation properties, anti-spike formula, 180mg antioxidant blend, and 60 servings per bottle. Designed for reducing glucose spikes and supporting metabolic health.
Award-winning supplements by Natural Cure Labs featuring multiple Gold Stevie Awards from 2020 to 2024 in categories such as Product Developer of the Year and Thought Leader of the Year. Recognized by Global 100, Corporate LiveWire Innovation & Excellence Awards, and other prestigious accolades for excellence in supplement innovation and product quality.
Level Off supplement with clean and pure formula, containing no magnesium stearate, no silica, and no additives. Designed for glucose regulation, reducing spikes from carbs and sugar, and supporting metabolic health with premium, vegan, gluten-free ingredients.
Level Off dietary supplement highlighting features such as being gluten-free, vegan, non-GMO, and lab-tested. Formulated to regulate glucose spikes from carbs and sugar, supporting those with insulin resistance or glucose monitoring through CGM.
Natural Cure Labs focuses on quality, safety, and trust, offering glucose-regulating supplements such as Level Off, formulated with premium ingredients for managing glucose spikes and supporting overall wellness
Level Off 2-pack dietary supplement bottles designed to regulate glucose spikes from carbs and sugar. Features ingredients like white mulberry leaf and cinnamon to aid glucose monitoring and prevent sugar cravings
Level Off 3-pack dietary supplement designed for glucose regulation and controlling glucose spikes from carbs and sugar. Contains white mulberry leaf, citrus bioflavonoids, and cinnamon extract to aid in managing fasting glucose and HBA1C levels. Supports those monitoring blood sugar, including those using CGMs.
Supplement Facts for Level Off, listing key ingredients such as white mulberry leaf, cinnamon bark, lemon peel extract, and a proprietary antioxidant blend. Ideal for glucose monitoring and reducing post-meal glucose spikes.

Level Off Glucose Support
$39.95
$69.95
Title

11 Natural Ingredients

Supports Balanced Glucose Levels

Promotes Healthy Digestion

Enhances Metabolic Function

Aids in Weight Management

Backed by Research

Understanding Bioflavonoids and Their Sources

Bioflavonoids are a group of polyphenolic compounds primarily found in fruits, vegetables, and other plant-based foods. Known for their antioxidant and inflammation-regulating properties, bioflavonoids contribute to a range of health benefits, from supporting cardiovascular health to potentially improving blood sugar regulation in healthy individuals. Citrus fruits, especially their peels, are one of the richest sources of bioflavonoids, containing notable types such as hesperidin, naringin, and diosmin. The concentrated presence of these compounds in lemon peel makes it particularly valuable for therapeutic uses¹.

Composition and Benefits of Lemon Peel Extract

Lemon peel extract is rich in several bioactive compounds, including vitamin C, limonene, and flavonoids such as hesperidin and naringenin. These compounds not only support immune health and help to control inflammation, but also play a specific role in regulating healthy blood sugar already in normal range. Studies have found that the bioflavonoids in lemon peel can positively influence various aspects of glucose metabolism, which is the process by which the body breaks down food into glucose (sugar) and uses it for energy. This helps to lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin function². 

 

Moreover, the unique composition of lemon peel offers additional benefits such as improved lipid profiles and blood pressure management, making it a versatile choice for overall metabolic health. The concentrated bioflavonoid content in lemon peel extract is often used in supplement form to provide a potent source of these compounds for therapeutic benefits³.

How Bioflavonoids Influence Carbohydrate Digestion

One of the primary ways bioflavonoids can affect blood sugar is by influencing the process of digestion of carbohydrates (starches and sugars). Bioflavonoids have been shown to inhibit enzymes like alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase, which are involved in breaking down carbohydrates into simple sugars that can be absorbed by the digestive tract. This results in a slower release of glucose into the bloodstream and a smaller spike in blood glucose levels after eating⁴.

Impact of Citrus Bioflavonoids on Insulin Sensitivity

Insulin sensitivity is a measure of how effectively the body’s cells respond to insulin, a hormone that facilitates the uptake of glucose from the blood into cells, where it can be used for energy. When insulin sensitivity is low, cells can’t take up glucose as effectively, and so it remains in the bloodstream, thereby raising blood sugar levels. Research has indicated that citrus bioflavonoids may improve insulin sensitivity by modulating various cellular pathways involved in insulin signaling. Compounds like hesperidin and naringenin have been found to enhance insulin receptor activity, making it easier for cells to absorb glucose and thereby reducing blood sugar levels⁵. In addition, bioflavonoids have been shown to promote the release of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), a hormone that stimulates insulin release from the pancreas in response to increased blood glucose. This mechanism supports efficient glucose uptake by cells, thereby aiding in blood sugar management9.

Studies Linking Citrus Bioflavonoids and Blood Sugar Regulation

Scientific research is increasingly examining the effects of citrus bioflavonoids on blood sugar regulation. A study published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry demonstrated that hesperidin supplementation improved glucose tolerance in animal models with diabetes⁶. 

 

Another study found that naringenin, a prominent citrus flavonoid, reduced fasting blood glucose levels and enhanced insulin sensitivity in subjects with metabolic syndrome⁷. These findings suggest that citrus bioflavonoids could have therapeutic potential for individuals struggling with blood sugar management, though more human trials are needed to confirm these results conclusively.

The Synergistic Effect of Bioflavonoids on Blood Sugar Pathways

Citrus bioflavonoids interact with various metabolic pathways to regulate blood sugar, and these effects are synergistic, meaning that they work together to help keep blood glucose levels under control. Through their inhibition of the enzymes responsible for breaking down complex carbohydrates into simple sugars, bioflavonoids help to reduce the sudden spikes that can occur after a carbohydrate-rich meal⁸. In addition, by improving insulin sensitivity, bioflavonoids help to encourage cells to take up any glucose that does enter the bloodstream, preventing it from building up and leading to high blood glucose levels. Through these pathways, citrus bioflavonoids create a multi-pronged approach to maintaining healthy glucose levels⁹.

Conclusion

Citrus bioflavonoids, particularly those found in lemon peel extract, present a natural and promising approach to blood sugar management. Through their influence on glucose metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and antioxidant protection, these compounds offer a multi-faceted approach to supporting metabolic health. Continued research will provide further insights into their role in metabolic health, but citrus bioflavonoids already hold substantial promise for those seeking alternative, natural ways to support healthy blood sugar levels.

Consider Level Off Glucose Support

For those interested in leveraging the benefits of lemon peel extract, Level Off Glucose Support by Natural Cure Labs is a dietary supplement that features this powerful ingredient. 

 

With 11 natural ingredients designed to support balanced glucose levels, enhance metabolic function, and promote healthy digestion, Level Off provides an easy way to incorporate bioflavonoids into your daily routine.
Front view of Level Off dietary supplement bottle, formulated to regulate glucose spikes from carbs and sugar, featuring white mulberry leaf, lemon peel extract, and cinnamon for glucose monitoring and supporting GLP-1 pathways.
Side view of Level Off supplement with detailed ingredient list, featuring white mulberry leaf, cinnamon extract, and antioxidants. Ideal for glucose regulation and reducing glucose spikes after meals. Supports those with insulin resistance, pre-diabetes, and those seeking to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Key benefits of healthy glucose regulation, including better energy, fewer cravings, and improved metabolic health. Designed to manage glucose spikes from carbs and sugar, reduce sugar cravings, and support balanced energy and weight management.
Detailed breakdown of Level Off's ingredients: white mulberry leaf, lemon extract, cinnamon, and antioxidants. Formulated to support glucose regulation, reduce insulin resistance, and manage blood sugar spikes after meals.
Research-based glucose support supplement featuring herbal extracts such as white mulberry leaf, lemon extract, and cinnamon. Designed for glucose regulation, anti-spike properties, and antioxidant support.
Level Off by Natural Cure Labs, a premium dietary supplement trusted for glucose regulation and reducing glucose spikes. Non-GMO, vegan, gluten-free, and made with high-quality ingredients like white mulberry leaf, cinnamon, and citrus bioflavonoids. Lab tested and GMP certified for safety.
Comparison chart of Level Off versus other products, highlighting Level Off's glucose regulation properties, anti-spike formula, 180mg antioxidant blend, and 60 servings per bottle. Designed for reducing glucose spikes and supporting metabolic health.
Award-winning supplements by Natural Cure Labs featuring multiple Gold Stevie Awards from 2020 to 2024 in categories such as Product Developer of the Year and Thought Leader of the Year. Recognized by Global 100, Corporate LiveWire Innovation & Excellence Awards, and other prestigious accolades for excellence in supplement innovation and product quality.
Level Off supplement with clean and pure formula, containing no magnesium stearate, no silica, and no additives. Designed for glucose regulation, reducing spikes from carbs and sugar, and supporting metabolic health with premium, vegan, gluten-free ingredients.
Level Off dietary supplement highlighting features such as being gluten-free, vegan, non-GMO, and lab-tested. Formulated to regulate glucose spikes from carbs and sugar, supporting those with insulin resistance or glucose monitoring through CGM.
Natural Cure Labs focuses on quality, safety, and trust, offering glucose-regulating supplements such as Level Off, formulated with premium ingredients for managing glucose spikes and supporting overall wellness
Level Off 2-pack dietary supplement bottles designed to regulate glucose spikes from carbs and sugar. Features ingredients like white mulberry leaf and cinnamon to aid glucose monitoring and prevent sugar cravings
Level Off 3-pack dietary supplement designed for glucose regulation and controlling glucose spikes from carbs and sugar. Contains white mulberry leaf, citrus bioflavonoids, and cinnamon extract to aid in managing fasting glucose and HBA1C levels. Supports those monitoring blood sugar, including those using CGMs.
Supplement Facts for Level Off, listing key ingredients such as white mulberry leaf, cinnamon bark, lemon peel extract, and a proprietary antioxidant blend. Ideal for glucose monitoring and reducing post-meal glucose spikes.

Level Off Glucose Support

$39.95
$69.95

Game changer

"I’ve struggled with cravings for years, but this one has helped me keep my glucose in check naturally."

- Pauline H.

Verified Buyer

References
  1. Biesalski, H. K., & Dragsted, L. O. (2019). Bioactive compounds of food and their role in health and disease. Molecular Nutrition & Food Research, 63(2), 1800046. DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.201800046
  2. Mulvihill, E. E., & Huff, M. W. (2012). Citrus flavonoids and the prevention of atherosclerosis. Cardiovascular & Hematological Agents in Medicinal Chemistry, 10(1), 26-35. DOI: 10.2174/187152512798918949
  3. Shukla, R., & Singh, P. (2011). Citrus flavonoids: Metabolism, efficacy, and safety. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 51(8), 670-679. DOI: 10.1080/10408391003796333
  4. Sharma, R., & Bharti, S. (2014). Inhibition of key carbohydrate hydrolyzing enzymes by bioflavonoids from citrus. Journal of Physiology and Biochemistry, 70(4), 927-935. DOI: 10.1007/s13105-014-0357-5
  5. Zaid, M. A., & Kailash, P. (2011). Role of hesperidin in insulin resistance and obesity. Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, 13(4), 276-287. DOI: 10.1111/j.1463-1326.2010.01342.x
  6. Morand, C., Dubray, C., & Milenkovic, D. (2011). Hesperidin contributes to the improvement of glucose tolerance in animal models. Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, 22(9), 829-834. DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2010.07.008
  7. Auclair, S., Milenkovic, D., & Besson, C. (2009). Naringenin enhances insulin sensitivity in metabolic syndrome. Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice, 84(1), 1-9. DOI: 10.1016/j.diabres.2008.10.008
  8. Benavente-García, O., & Castillo, J. (2008). Flavonoids: Natural substances with antioxidant activity and their influence on carbohydrate metabolism. Food Chemistry, 84(2), 200-213. DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2003.12.002
  9. Kong, K. W., & Ismail, A. (2012). Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of citrus flavonoids on diabetes. Plant Foods for Human Nutrition, 67(2), 119-125. DOI: 10.1007/s11130-012-0274-3