A cherry a day can keep diabetes
away
December 21, 2004
In a new study, researchers at Michigan State University
have identified a group of naturally occurring chemicals
abundant in cherries that could help lower blood sugar
levels in people with diabetes.
Laboratory studies using animal pancreatic cells indicate
that the chemicals, called anthocyanins, increased insulin
production by 50 percent. Anthocyanins are a class of
plant pigments responsible for the color of many fruits,
including cherries. They also are potent antioxidants,
highly active chemicals that have been increasingly
associated with a variety of health benefits, including
protection against heart disease and cancer. "It is possible that consumption of cherries and
other fruits containing these compounds [anthocyanins]
could have a significant impact on insulin levels in
humans," study leader Muralee Nair said.
Until human studies are done on cherry anthocyanins,
those with diabetes should continue following their
doctor's treatment recommendations, including any medicine
prescribed, and monitor their insulin carefully, the
researchers said.
The team tested several types of anthocyanins extracted
from these cherries against mouse pancreatic-beta cells,
which normally produce insulin, in the presence of high
concentrations of glucose.Insulin is the protein produced
by the pancreas that helps regulate blood sugar (glucose)
levels.
Compared to cells that were not exposed to anthocyanins,
exposed cells were associated with a 50 percent increase
in insulin levels although the mechanism of action by
which these anthocyanins boost insulin production is
not known. (ANI)
Source:http://news.newkerala.com
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