Updated: 12/19/23
Have you ever wanted to enjoy something sweet without the guilt of refined sugar? As a health-conscious individual, I’m always on the lookout for natural alternatives that can add sweetness to my diet without compromising my well-being. Lately I’ve been experimenting with a unique sugar called trehalose. Pronounced “tree-uh-LOSE”, this disaccharide sugar is gaining popularity for its potential health benefits. Unlike table sugar, trehalose is not rapidly absorbed and broken down by the body. Early studies suggest it may help protect cells, support a healthy cardiovascular system, and even benefit brain function. Curious to learn more about this lesser-known sweetener? In this post, I’ll take a deeper look at what makes trehalose powder an intriguing sugar alternative worth considering.
What is Trehalose?
Trehalose is a non-reducing disaccharide made up of two glucose molecules joined together. It is a natural sugar that is in various organisms, including plants, bacteria, fungi, and animals, and is considered to be a more stable form of glucose. The body metabolizes it much slower than other types of sugar, and it has a low glycemic index, making it a healthy alternative for those with diabetes, insulin resistance, and obesity.
Trehalose works in a myriad of ways in the body, starting with its ability to help cells maintain their shape and structure. When cells become dehydrated, they can lose their shape and function, leading to damage and death. Trehalose has been shown to help protect against cellular damage by stabilizing proteins and other cellular components, particularly during times of stress.
Research has also suggested that trehalose may help to support immune function, improve gut health, and reduce inflammation in the body.
It has a long history in traditional Asian medicine, where it has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. It’s also very common in insect biology for hibernation purposes since it helps insects to withstand extreme temperature changes. Since then, it has rapidly gained popularity in the scientific world for its potential as an anti-aging and anti-inflammatory agent.
Benefits of Trehalose Powder
May Help to Maintain Blood Sugar Levels
Maintaining healthy blood sugar levels is essential to avoiding chronic illnesses like diabetes and obesity. Trehalose has a low glycemic index and is non-insulin dependent, making it an excellent option for individuals with high blood sugar levels. Consuming trehalose powder can help control blood sugar levels and prevent insulin resistance.
Loads of Health Benefits
It has been explored extensively for its many health benefits, including neuroprotection, cardioprotection, immunoprotection, and longevity. Its ability to stabilize protein function has the potential to provide therapeutic applications in aging and protein-misfolding diseases. With its ability to protect cells from stress, trehalose is an excellent addition to your diet.
May Aid in Weight Management
It can be a helpful solution for weight management. It’s a prebiotic, which means that it feeds the good bacteria in your gut. A healthy gut means a faster metabolism and better weight management.
May Improves Eye Health
For those experiencing eye fatigue, dryness, and discomfort, it can help alleviate these symptoms. As a natural sugar, trehalose reduces inflammatory responses and improves circulation in the eye. It can also help retain moisture in the eyes, making it an effective treatment for those experiencing dry eyes.
May Improve Athletic Performance
During physical activities, our body naturally breaks down glucose into energy to fuel our muscles. However, the breakdown of glucose into energy can lead to muscle fatigue and slow muscle function. Trehalose shows to be an excellent energy source for athletes. Consuming it before or during athletic activity can provide longer-lasting energy, prevent muscle fatigue, and improve athletic performance.
May Help to Reduce Stress Levels
It helps to reduce stress levels in the body. When we are stressed, the body produces cortisol, which negatively impacts our health. Trehalose regulates cortisol levels in the body, reducing the negative effects of stress. It also helps to improve cognitive function and memory retention, which is affected by spikes in cortisol levels.
May Help Fight Against Aging
It is an anti-aging superfood. It helps reduce cellular damage, which leads to aging, disease and chronic inflammation. By regulating glucose levels and improving metabolic function, trehalose powder helps maintain healthy cells and organs.
Supports Immune Function
Our immune system plays an essential role in keeping us healthy by fighting diseases and infections. Trehalose has been shown to boost the immune system by increasing the production of immune cells and reducing oxidative stress. Consuming it can help strengthen your immune system, reduce the risk of infections, and keep you healthy.
Promotes Intestinal Health
Good gut health has a profound impact on general wellbeing. It shows to be beneficial to your microbiome, the balance of microorganisms in your digestive system. Studies have demonstrated that trehalose has prebiotic properties that stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, which, in turn, promotes good digestion, nutrient absorption, and a healthy gut.
A Great Energy Source
As a slow-releasing sugar, it provides constant energy for longer periods at that much-needed optimum energy level. It’s no wonder that trehalose is a favorite among athletes, who look for natural performance boosters.
May Aid with Neurodegenerative Diseases
It shows promise in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, which affect millions of people worldwide. Studies indicate that trehalose can reduce the harmful effects of misfolded proteins that accumulate in the brain, leading to cell damage and death. It has been proposed as a potential therapeutic agent for these diseases.
Side Effects of Trehalose Powder
Digestive Discomfort
One of the most common side effects of trehalose powder is digestive discomfort. This can include bloating, gas, and diarrhea. These symptoms are typically mild and go away on their own once your body adjusts to the supplement. However, if you experience severe stomach upset, stop using trehalose powder and consult with a healthcare professional.
Allergic Reactions
Some people may be allergic, which can cause serious symptoms such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face and throat. This is rare but can be life-threatening. If you experience any of these symptoms after using trehalose powder, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
Blood Sugar Levels
Another potential side effect is its impact on blood sugar levels. While some studies suggest that trehalose may be less harmful to blood sugar levels than other sugars, such as sucrose and glucose, it’s still important for individuals with diabetes or other blood sugar concerns to be aware of any potential impact. As always, it’s important to talk to your doctor about any supplements or powders that you’re considering using.
Interaction with Medications
It may interact with certain medications, including insulin and diabetes medications. If you are taking any prescription medications or have a medical condition, talk to your doctor before adding it to your diet.
Kidney Damage
There is some evidence to suggest that high doses can lead to kidney damage. However, this is typically only a concern for those with pre-existing kidney disease. If you have kidney disease or are at risk for it, talk to your doctor before using trehalose powder.
Dehydration
It is a natural osmolyte, which means it can help regulate water balance in the body. However, if you consume too much trehalose powder without drinking enough water, it can lead to dehydration. Be sure to drink plenty of water when using trehalose powder to avoid this risk.
C. Difficile Outbreaks
One of the most concerning potential side effects is its association with C. Difficile outbreaks. This bacterial infection can cause severe diarrhea and inflammation in the gut, and it has links to the consumption of trehalose powder. While it’s unclear exactly how and why this link exists, it’s important to be cautious when using trehalose powder and talk to your doctor about any potential risk factors.
Trehalose Deficiency
In addition to concerns about C. Difficile outbreaks, some individuals may also be at risk of trehalose deficiency. Trehalose is the enzyme that breaks down trehalose, and if you’re deficient in this enzyme, consuming it could cause adverse effects. Symptoms of trehalose deficiency can include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and bloating. If you suspect that you might have trehalose deficiency, it’s important to talk to your doctor before using any trehalose supplements.
Dosage for Trehalose Powder
As a sweetener, the recommended dosage for pure trehalose powder is 5,000 mg per serving to add flavor to food or beverages. Make sure to consult a doctor before taking this supplement. Too much of it may cause gastrointestinal issues.
Where to Buy Trehalose Powder
You can purchase pure trehalose powder at BulkSupplements.com. The company is an industry-leading manufacturer and distributor for pure dietary supplements. BulkSupplements.com is not just a consumer brand. It also supplies pure ingredients to other brands that distribute food and other supplement products. All products at BulkSupplements.com are manufactured and tested according to current and proper manufacturing practices.
Are you interested in trying trehalose powder as a dietary supplement to potentially increase antioxidants, combat oxidative stress, support cognitive function and provide hydration to the skin and eyes? Contact BulkSupplements.com to place an order today.
Bottom Line
Without a doubt, incorporating trehalose powder into your diet has numerous advantages, including better insulin resistance, improved athletic performance, strong immune function, intestinal health, and possibly reduced risk of neurodegenerative illnesses. It is an excellent supplement to enhance your diet to keep your body healthy. You can find trehalose powder supplements at your local health food store or online. Try it today and experience the benefits that this wonderful natural sugar has to offer.
**These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.