Carnosine, a natural compound made from two amino acids and sold as a dietary supplement, is studied for blood sugar control and longevity. In people with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, it modestly lowers blood sugar; the zinc-bound form protects the stomach lining. Effects on exercise, memory, mood and blood fats are limited or mixed. It is low-risk at usual amounts, but its longevity effect is unproven. (Full Review)
| Marker | Target | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Fasting glucose | 75–90 mg/dL | Primary glucose outcome |
| HbA1c | 4.8–5.3% | Three-month glucose average |
| Fasting insulin | 2–6 µIU/mL | Insulin resistance |
| Triglycerides | <100 mg/dL | Lipid response |
| eGFR | >90 mL/min/1.73 m² | Kidney clearance |
| Urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio | <10 mg/g | Early kidney damage |
| Serum copper (zinc–carnosine users) | 90–130 µg/dL | Detect zinc-induced copper deficiency |
| Serum zinc (zinc–carnosine users) | 90–110 µg/dL | Avoid zinc excess |
| hs-CRP | <1.0 mg/L | Inflammation trend |
| ALT | <25 U/L | Liver safety check |
| Blood pressure | <120/80 mmHg | Additive lowering with antihypertensives |
Cadence: Baseline fasting morning draw; glucose weekly for the first four weeks on diabetes drugs; repeat labs at 12–14 weeks, then every 6–12 months while continuing; zinc–carnosine users repeat copper every 6–12 months