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Protective Effects of Konjac and Inulin Extracts on Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes
Tianle Gao1, Yue Jiao2, Yang Liu2
1State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Function of Natural Medicine, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100050, China.
Konjac-inulin (KI) composition effectively manages blood glucose and triglycerides in animal models of type 1 and type 2 diabetes. This dietary supplement shows promise for individuals at risk of diabetes.
Area of Science:
- Metabolic diseases research
- Nutritional science
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Type 1 and type 2 diabetes are significant global health concerns.
- Dietary interventions are crucial for diabetes management.
- Konjac and inulin are known for their potential health benefits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of konjac-inulin (KI) composition against type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
- To compare the effects of KI composition with konjac extract and inulin extract alone.
- To investigate the impact of KI on key diabetes-related biomarkers.
Main Methods:
- Animal models: Streptozotocin-induced type 1 diabetic rats and db/db mice for type 2 diabetes.
- Treatment groups included vehicle control, varying doses of KI composition, konjac extract, and inulin extract.
- Monitoring of blood glucose, body weight, triglycerides, glycated serum proteins, and insulin expression via immunohistochemistry.
Main Results:
- Daily KI composition significantly reduced blood glucose and triglyceride levels.
- Improved insulin production in islets and reduced obesity were observed in diabetic models.
- KI composition demonstrated superior efficacy compared to konjac or inulin alone.
Conclusions:
- Konjac-inulin (KI) composition exhibits a protective role in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
- Provides an experimental basis for developing KI as a dietary supplement for diabetic populations.
- Supports the use of KI for individuals at high risk of developing diabetes.
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