Diabetes and impaired glucose or sugar metabolism has reached epidemic proportions in the United States. It appears the underlying problem is poor dietary choices and resultant obesity. Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables has been shown, time and again, to prevent type 2 diabetes and a host of chronic diseases.
Researchers are constantly theorizing about which specific components of fruits and vegetables are so beneficial. In reality, it is certain that there are a multitude of natural plant constituents which promote health. In a recent study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2005;82(3):685-693), carotenoids are believed to be linked to decreased risk of developing type 2 diabetes and improving how the body handles sugars.
Researchers enrolled nearly 1600 adults in a cross-sectional survey to examine any possible association between carotenoids and diabetes. They measured serum levels of five carotenoids (a-carotene, B-carotene, B-cryptoxanthin, lutein/zeaxanthin, and lycopene) and fasting plasma glucose, as well as administered an oral-glucose-tolerance test. The results showed that higher levels of each carotenoid were associated with decreased glucose and fasting insulin levels. Lower levels of carotenoids, especially B-carotene were linked to impaired glucose metabolism and diabetes status.
Carotenoids are found only in plants and are especially abundant in red, orange and yellow vegetables, and fruits. There are also very nice supplement blends available that offer a great source of additional carotenoids, to complement a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
Posted by Kristopher Foster on March 21, 2006 03:11 PM
