A plant compound derived from an orchid species may offer a promising method to improve insulin resistance. Clinical data also supports the effectiveness of low-carb diets in managing Type 2 diabetes.
Saligenin: Hope from the Orchid
Researchers from the National Institute of Forest Science and Chung-Ang University in South Korea have discovered a new mechanism to tackle obesity-related diabetes. The spotlight is on Saligenin, a compound from the orchid Gastrodia elata. The study was published on July 15 in the journal Tissue & Cell.
Saligenin has shown promise in improving insulin resistance caused by obesity. In cellular experiments, the compound activated autophagy—the self-cleaning process within cells—in intestinal cells. This activation led to the recovery of the secretion of the hormone GLP-1, which regulates blood sugar levels. Additionally, there was an increase in insulin response and glucose uptake in muscle cells.
“Next, we plan to conduct animal studies,” explains lead researcher Lee Kyung-tae. In the long term, the researchers aim to develop functional foods and pharmaceutical products based on Saligenin.
Low Carb: 5.2 Kg Loss in Six Months
In parallel to pharmaceutical research, a recent clinical study provides tangible results: a prospective study published in BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health followed 48 Type 2 diabetes patients over six months on a low-carb diet.
The successful outcomes of the low-carb study indicate that proper nutrition is a critical lever in managing Type 2 diabetes. An experienced physician, who has personally dealt with diabetes, shares his golden rules and recipes for healthy blood sugar control in this guide. Download your free guide with 7 tested recipes
The results are impressive: Participants lost an average of 5.2 kilograms. The average BMI decreased from 30.6 to 28.8. Notably, the long-term blood sugar value (HbA1c) dropped from 60.0 to 49.7 mmol/mol. The study authors observed a clear correlation between weight loss and normalization of HbA1c levels. Blood pressure and blood lipids remained stable.
Technology as a Helper
Modern technology also aids in blood sugar control. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems can lower HbA1c levels by approximately one percent. According to surveys, users spend on average four more hours each day within their target blood sugar range.
In addition to technological support and nutrition, specific exercises in daily life can significantly lower blood sugar levels naturally. This free guide features 7 simple 3-minute exercises with immediate effects that require no gym membership. Download your free guide for natural blood sugar reduction
Micronutrients: One in Two Have Deficiencies
An often-overlooked issue is that around 45 percent of Type 2 diabetes patients suffer from micronutrient deficiencies. Vitamin D (60.5 percent), magnesium (42 percent), and iron (28 percent) are the most commonly lacking nutrients.
Diabetes Medications with Added Benefits
A study published in JAMA Network Open on July 13 has highlighted an unexpected side effect of SGLT2 inhibitors, primarily used for lowering blood sugar; they could reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease by 43 percent. This underscores the growing significance of diabetes medications in the prevention of neurodegenerative conditions.
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