Title : Therapeutic potential of Benincasa hispida extract in regulating metabolic markers among patients with type 2 diabetes
Abstract:
Excessive consumption of refined carbohydrates coupled with inadequate intake of dietary fibre particularly from vegetable sources has been strongly associated with an increased risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and metabolic syndrome. The global burden of chronic diseases continues to escalate, with the diabetic population projected to rise from 180 million in 2010 to 368 million by 2030. These conditions are leading contributors to global morbidity and mortality, significantly impairing quality of life and increasing healthcare costs. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of dietary fibre derived from Benincasa hispida (winter melon) in modulating glycaemic parameters for diabetes management. Our findings demonstrate that aqueous extracts of B. hispida exert significant hypoglycaemic effects in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rat models. Histopathological analysis revealed that hepatic and renal tissues in treated rats exhibited structural restoration toward normal morphology, indicating cytoprotective effects. Furthermore, the incorporation of B. hispida into functional food matrices, such as granola bars, enhanced the dietary fibre content and improved bowel regularity, with favorable consumer acceptance. In a 12-week human intervention trial, participants receiving B. hispida extract exhibited a statistically significant reduction in diastolic blood pressure (∆ ‒7.0 mmHg; 65% CI: ‒11.4, ‒2.5) and a greater decrease in fasting plasma glucose (∆ ‒0.8 mmol/L; 65% CI: ‒1.8, 0.2) compared to the control group (∆ ‒0.4 mmol/L; 65% CI: ‒1.2, 0.4). Additionally, lean body mass in the intervention group showed a positive trend in Week 6 (∆ 0.05 kg; 65% CI: ‒0.40, 0.46) and Week 12 (∆ 0.16 kg; 65% CI: ‒0.33, 0.64), whereas the control group experienced a decline. These findings suggest that B. hispida extract may serve as a promising candidate for the development of functional foods aimed at improving glycaemic control and cardiovascular health in individuals with T2DM. Promoting physical activity and increasing the intake of dietary fibre from fruits and vegetables remain essential strategies for diabetes prevention, health maintenance, and enhancement of overall quality of life.
Keywords: Benincasa hispida, diabetic rats, metabolic parameters, type 2 diabetes.
