Intake of grape seeds and skin extracts helps lower blood glucose levels in diabetics, according to a recent study.
Chinese researchers from the Sheyang Agricultural University found that 'procyanidin,' a compound in grape seeds, could control blood glucose levels in patients with diabetes. Their research was tested on a rodent model, where grape seed extracts were orally fed in varied levels of polymerized versions of procyanidin. After six weeks of the trial, the diabetic rats showed reduced concentration of blood glucose, serum lipids and hepatic oxidative stress compared to rats that were on a placebo, reported the Food Consumer.Org.
In addition, the experts noticed that extracts worked better when given as oligomers than in polymeric form. Findings from a past clinical trial also show that consuming grape seed extracts helps manage blood pressure and fights against cancer cells. Hyperglycemia, or excessive amount of blood sugar, is a common symptom of diabetes. Procyanidin also curbs the rate of sugar metabolism and combats against oral bacteria that causes cavities and wear and tear of enamel.
Another study by the Wayne State University in the United States also identified uses of compounds in grape skin extracts as potential treatment for managing diabetes. It was discovered that grape skin had anti-hyperglycemic effects on diabetic subjects.
"It is hopeful that our research may eventually lead to the successful development of a safe, targeted nutritional intervention to support diabetes prevention and treatment," said Kequan Zhou, study author and assistant professor at the Wayne State University in a news release.
"Our study will provide important pre-clinical data regarding the anti-diabetic mechanisms, biological efficacy and safety of GSE that should facilitate eventual translation into future clinical studies to assess grape skin extracts and its components as a safe, low-cost and evidence-based nutritional intervention for diabetes."
