Fruit drink can help lower blood sugar levels in ‘minutes’

Complications of diabetes arise from impaired insulin production, which increases the risk of dangerously high blood sugar levels.

Fortunately, people with type 2 diabetes can tame the threat posed by high glucose levels by changing their diet.

Pomegranate juice is rich in nutrients and antioxidants, and a study published in the journal Current Developments in Nutrition found that the drink could lower blood sugar levels in “minutes.”

The research team studied the effects of a single eight-ounce dose of pomegranate juice on blood glucose levels.
The scientists recruited 21 healthy, “normal” people for this experiment.

These volunteers were randomly assigned either water, pomegranate juice, or a water-based drink that matched the sugar content of pomegranate juice.

The scientists measured fasting blood sugar before and 15, 30, 60, 90, 120, 150 and 180 minutes after drinking.

And in case you didn’t know, fasting blood sugar describes the level of glucose after an overnight fast.

Then the volunteers were divided into two groups depending on the level of insulin in the blood on an empty stomach.

While water did not affect blood sugar levels in any of the participants, pomegranate juice had different results. And those who had low fasting blood insulin levels experienced a “significant” drop in blood glucose levels 15 minutes after drinking the drink.

The researchers concluded that pomegranate juice components “probably” regulate glucose metabolism in the human body. One of the active parts of pomegranate juice that may explain these benefits is its high antioxidant content.

Pomegranates are rich in anthocyanins, pigments that give the juice its characteristic deep color and contain antioxidants.

One theory is that antioxidants are able to bind to sugar and prevent significant effects on insulin levels.

Although the mechanisms behind the effect of pomegranate juice on blood sugar levels are not entirely clear, there are more studies that reflect the results of this study.

A study published in the journal Nutrition Research also found that juice could lower fasting blood glucose levels and reduce insulin resistance in people with type 2 diabetes.

It is recommended that you see your GP if you have this condition or are concerned that you may be at increased risk of developing a blood sugar condition.

Source: Express